From 31 January 2025, the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) rules for transport to the United Kingdom have changed. These updates will directly impact transport companies, freight forwarders, and importers, bringing stricter requirements and tighter controls. UK customs authorities are tightening regulations, introducing stricter ENS submission controls and shorter deadlines.
Sign up for the logistics newsletterA step-by-step process ensures compliance:
1. Gather Essential Information, like transport details, goods description and consignor and consignee details.
2. Access the S&S GB System through the UK Safety & Security Great Britain system.
3. Complete the ENS Form.
4. Submit ENS (Declarations) Within the Required Deadlines. Deadlines vary by transport mode. Have a look at our PDF to be sure which deadlines apply to you.
5. Receive Confirmation. After submission, a Movement Reference Number (MRN) is issued as proof of ENS compliance.
6. Update ENS if Necessary
By following these steps, transport operators ensure full ENS compliance, prevent costly delays, and keep shipments moving efficiently across UK borders.
Where goods previously moved seamlessly into Great Britain from the EU, a new digital checkpoint took place from 31 January 2025: the mandatory ENS. Each mode of transport has its own strict deadlines—miss it by an hour, and your freight could be left waiting in Coquelles or Dover.
Want to know your specific deadline? Below is a clear overview per transport type, ensuring your goods continue to move smoothly beyond 2025:
An entry summary declaration is needed for all imports into Great Britain from the EU and other regions starting January 31, 2025. You can download our PDF to have a clear overview.
Download ENS declaration PDFThe information provided in this report is for general guidance only. TIMOCOM accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions, or outcomes arising from the use of this information.
A mistake in your ENS submission could have serious consequences from 2025—both financially and operationally. In addition to the standard costs of preparing and submitting an ENS (which vary by customs broker), failing to provide accurate information can result in hefty fines.
Most importantly, goods without a valid ENS can be held at the UK border. Such delays can be unpredictable, leading to significant additional costs and major disruptions to your logistics planning.
The Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is part of the UK's broader Safety & Security Declarations, required under the S&S GB system to assess potential risks before goods enter the country. A Safety and Security Declaration is used by GB border authorities to analyze potential risks caused by goods crossing their border. Failure to provide the correct Safety and Security Declaration can lead to penalties for the carrier.
But remember, the Safety and Security Declaration is separate and unrelated to the import customs declaration for goods.
Want to know more about how customs clearance affects your transport? Read our guide on transporting goods out of the UK.
Every experienced transporter knows: ENS is more than just paperwork. It guarantees smooth border crossings and minimises disruptions in your logistics chain. Yet, in practice, compliance can be challenging—especially with the new regulations that came into effect in 2025.
The step-by-step guide below provides a clear framework to help you stay ahead. By following these steps, you not only prevent errors and delays, but also gain a competitive edge. After all, smart compliance is smart business.
1. Gather essential information:
2. Access the S&S GB system:
3. Complete the ENS form:
4. Meet submission deadlines:
5. Receive confirmation:
6. Update if necessary:
Even experienced transport companies still regularly make mistakes when submitting the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). Completing and submitting a customs declaration requires specific documents and licenses related to the imported goods, for example. These errors can delay your shipment, lead to additional costs, and result in unnecessary border inspections. Below are two of the most common issues in ENS submissions, along with practical tips to help you avoid them.
HM Government, "The Border Operating Model," December 2024
Submitting the ENS on time and correctly requires precision. Automation is the most effective way to prevent errors in ENS submissions and ensure compliance with the new regulations from 2025. Fortunately, powerful software solutions are available to support your transport business.
Smart ENS software seamlessly connects with your existing customs and freight management systems. This allows customs forms to be automatically populated with accurate data and aligned with your transport schedule—ensuring compliance and on-time submissions.
In short: automating your ENS process isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for 2025.
Automating ENS submissions minimises the risk of costly mistakes. The software automatically synchronises your data with the UK’s S&S GB system, ensuring shipments are processed faster and deadlines are consistently met.
By making smart use of automation, you will be fully prepared for ENS 2025, avoid unnecessary risks, and strengthen your competitive position.
Although Ireland is geographically close, transporters will also need to comply with the new ENS requirements for this route from 2025. Since Ireland remains part of the EU, specific rules and deadlines apply.
As Ireland follows EU regulations, its ENS requirements may differ from those in Great Britain. This could mean different submission deadlines or additional documentation requirements.
Transport companies should be aware of the extra administrative burden and ensure close coordination with Irish partners. Some goods have a waiver from the requirement to submit entry summary declarations, including qualifying Northern Ireland goods imported into Great Britain.
For imports into Northern Ireland, a different system, ICS, is used to submit Safety and Security Declarations.
Tip:
Check UK and Irish customs regulations in advance for every shipment. A proactive approach prevents unexpected delays and keeps your transport running smoothly on both sides of the Channel. The right preparation helps you stay in control of your logistics and avoid unnecessary costs.
Want to stay ahead of changing customs requirements? Read our guide on customs clearance between the UK and the EU.
Since 31 January 2025, ENS has applied to every shipment from the EU to the United Kingdom. To avoid fines, delays, and additional costs, transport companies, freight forwarders, and logistics service providers must ensure full compliance. Make ENS compliance a seamless part of your daily operations. Use automation to minimise errors and ensure submissions meet every deadline. Staying ahead means keeping control over your freight flows and preventing unexpected disruptions at the border.
Companies that stay proactive will keep goods moving smoothly in 2025 and beyond. Looking for a more efficient way to manage your transport operations? TIMOCOM’s marketplace connects you with reliable logistics partners and provides digital tools to optimise your supply chain. Act now to stay compliant. Companies that proactively integrate ENS into their operations will avoid delays and maintain smooth transport flows in 2025 and beyond.
ENS must be submitted before goods arrive in the UK. The exact deadline depends on the mode of transport.
Yes, ENS is required for all imports into the UK from the EU and other countries. There are exceptions, for example for certain Northern Ireland goods imported into Great Britain, or specific low-risk goods, as determined by UK customs. Always verify with UK customs to check whether your goods require an ENS.
If any shipment details change before arrival, the ENS must be updated in the S&S GB system. Failure to update an ENS could lead to shipment holds or customs penalties. What documents are required in addition to ENS?
ENS is not a customs declaration but a Safety & Security Declaration. In addition to ENS, you may need an import customs declaration (for duty and tax purposes), commercial invoices or relevant permits or licenses.
Yes, a freight forwarder or customs broker can submit ENS for you. However, the legal responsibility remains with the carrier (unless otherwise agreed). Always ensure that the ENS is filed correctly and on time.