To strengthen security and ensure regulatory compliance, the UK government now mandates an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) before goods arrive. Starting January 31, 2025, shipments without an ENS will not be processed. This post breaks down the ENS requirements, the submission process, and its role in international trade.
What is the Entry Summary Declaration?
The ENS is a mandatory electronic declaration that provides advance cargo information before arrival at the destination customs territory. In the EU, it falls under the Union Customs Code (UCC) and is processed through the Import Control System (ICS). Its primary role is to enhance security by identifying potential risks associated with incoming shipments and streamlining the clearance process.
ENS in different jurisdictions
Great Britain (GB): The ENS for the UK is known as Safety & Security GB (S&S GB). It must be submitted when importing goods into Great Britain from the European Union (EU) or the rest of the world (RoW).
European Union and Northern Ireland (NI): When goods enter the EU or Northern Ireland from Great Britain or RoW, you must file the ENS through the EU’s ICS system.
Key considerations for submission
- Timeliness: Carriers must submit ENS before goods are dispatched. Failure to comply may lead to penalties or shipment holds.
- Supporting Documentation: An ENS may require references to bills of lading, invoices, or cargo manifests.
- Notification to Shippers: Customs authorities may inform the shipper if additional certificates or documents are needed.
Who should submit the Entry Summary Declaration?
Carriers, including shipping lines and airlines, usually bear the responsibility since they control the transport of goods. However, when a freight forwarder or logistics provider manages shipments on behalf of an importer, they may take over the submission process.
Key data requirements for ENS filing
- EORI Number: The EORI number is a unique identifier for businesses involved in customs activities when shipping to Europe.
- Consignor and consignee details: Provide the names, addresses, and identification numbers of the sender and receiver of the goods.
- Goods description: Include a precise description of the cargo, quantity, weight, and the corresponding Harmonized System (HS) codes to ensure proper classification.
- Transport details: Specify the mode of transport (sea, air, road, or rail), the vessel name, flight number, or vehicle registration, and the estimated arrival time at the first port of entry.
- Routing information: Indicate the planned route, including the country of departure, transit points, and the final destination.
- Point of entry: Identify the customs entry point where the goods will first enter the customs territory.
- Supporting documents: Reference any necessary shipping documents, such as the bill of lading, airway bill, or commercial invoice.
When should the ENS be submitted?
Typically, submission deadlines vary by transport mode:
- Short-haul flights:Submit ENS by the time of departure.
- Long-haul flights: Submit ENS at least four hours before arrival at the first EU airport.
- Sea shipping: Submit ENS 24 hours before loading at the port of departure.
- Short sea lanes: Submit ENS two hours before arrival at the first EU port.
- Road transport: Submit ENS one hour before arrival at the customs office of entry.
- Rail shipments: Timelines depend on jurisdiction and border controls.
What's the ENS processing workflow?
The ENS must be submitted electronically through customs systems, like the EU’s ICS. Once filed, customs authorities assess risks and may issue clearance or intervention orders. In high-risk cases, they may send carriers a “do not load” notice. After the goods arrive, the ENS data integrates into the full customs declaration for final clearance. Typically, the process from submission to response takes less than 2 hours for most shipments, assuming there are no issues.
Why choose ASLG for your shipping from China?
ASLG provides efficient solutions for shipping to the UK and EU. We identify and mitigate potential risks ahead of time, ensuring smooth operations. By integrating ENS filing with your supply chain logistics, we streamline cargo clearance and minimize delays. Additionally, we keep pace with international customs regulations, ensuring your shipments fully comply with global shipping requirements.
