Entry Summary Declaration UK 2025 update

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.

In this article, you will discover exactly what is changing, who is responsible for submitting the ENS, and how to avoid fines and delays. This will help ensure that your transport operations remain smooth, efficient, and fully compliant beyond 2025. Do you want to stay ahead of relevant industry news and never miss any updates? Then sign up for our logistics newsletter.

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This article in 30 seconds

• ENS is mandatory since 31 January 2025.
  - All shipments from the EU to Great Britain must include an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) submitted via the S&S GB system.
• Strict submission deadlines per transport mode. Missing the ENS deadline can lead to shipment delays at key entry points like Coquelles and Dover.
• Non-compliance has serious consequences.  Incorrect or late ENS submissions can result in fines, shipment holds, and disruptions to your supply chain.

• A 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.

• Common mistakes include incorrect HS codes and late submissions. Using the UK Trade Tariff tool and setting internal reminders helps prevent errors.
• Automation reduces risks and improves efficiency. ENS compliance software, customs integration, and digital freight platforms streamline submissions and minimise mistakes.
• ENS rules for Ireland differ from Great Britain.
  - ENS is required for imports from Ireland to GB, but UK-to-Ireland requirements depend on Irish customs regulations.
• 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.

What’s changing in 2025?

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:

• Maritime container transport: At least 24 hours before loading.
• Maritime bulk goods: At least 4 hours before arrival in the UK.
• Short Sea (RoRo): At least 2 hours before arrival.
• Air freight (flights <4 hours): ENS must be submitted before departure.
• Air freight (flights ≥4 hours): At least 4 hours before arrival.
• Rail transport (<2 hours journey time): At least 1 hour before arrival.
• Rail transport (≥2 hours journey time): At least 2 hours before arrival.
• Road transport (e.g., Channel Tunnel): At least 1 hour before arrival at the Eurotunnel terminal in Coquelles, France.

An entry summary declaration is needed for all imports into Great Britain from the EU and other regions starting January 31, 2025.

What are the costs & penalties when you miss or file ENS incorrectly?

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.

Safety and Security Declaration

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.

(CTA)primary: Want to know more about how customs clearance affects your transport? Read our guide on transporting goods out of the UK.

A step-by-step guide on how to submit Entry Summary Declaration

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 coming 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:

• Transport details (mode of transport, carrier, estimated arrival time).
• Goods description, including correct HS codes.
• Consignor and consignee information.

2. Access the S&S GB system:

• Register and log in to the Safety and Security GB (S&S GB) system.
• You will need a valid GB Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number to submit an entry summary declaration.

3. Complete the ENS form:

• Enter all required fields accurately.

4. Meet submission deadlines:

• Follow the specific deadlines per transport mode (see above).

5. Receive confirmation:

• Submit entry summary declarations and receive a Movement Reference Number (MRN).

6. Update if necessary:

• If shipment details change, update the ENS before arrival.

Common ENS mistakes & how to avoid them

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.

1. Using incorrect HS codes

• Problem:
  - One of the most frequent mistakes in ENS submissions is using incorrect or outdated HS codes. Such misclassification can lead to additional customs checks, long delays, and potentially high fines.
• How to avoid this?
  - Always use the official UK Trade Tariff tool to verify and validate your HS codes. Schedule regular internal training sessions to ensure your employees fully understand how to classify goods correctly.

2. Submitting ENS too late

• Problem:
  - Submitting an ENS after the required deadline almost always results in delays. Your shipment could be held at the UK border, causing lost time and additional costs.
• How to avoid this?
  - Set up internal reminders and clear checkpoints in your planning process. Use digital tools and automation to minimise the risk of late submissions. This ensures your ENS is always filed on time, even when your team is busy.
  - You must submit your entry summary declaration before your goods arrive. According to the UK Government's Border Operating Model [1], submissions can be made up to 200 days in advance of goods arriving.

HM Government, "The Border Operating Model," December 2024

Which tools help automating ENS submissions?

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.

Which software automates ENS submissions?

• Customs Software
  • Leading software providers such as AEB, Descartes, and CargoWise offer specialised features to automatically generate and submit ENS forms on time. These tools use existing data from your transport administration to pre-fill ENS information, reducing the risk of errors.
• Digital Freight Platforms
  • Digital transport platforms, such as TIMOCOM, integrate seamlessly with specialised customs software. By enabling data exchange and automation, ENS submissions become simpler and more efficient, ensuring faster compliance and minimising the risk of errors.

How does ENS integrate with other (existing) systems?

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.

Key benefits for your business:

• Time savings – Reduces manual administrative tasks.
• Error reduction – AI-powered compliance tools detect inconsistencies before submission.
• Guaranteed compliance – ENS filings automatically meet the latest UK Safety & Security GB (S&S GB) system requirements.

In short: automating your ENS process isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for 2025.

How does automation help in practice?

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.

Key benefits for your business:

• Save time – Less administrative burden, more focus on logistics.
• Prevent errors – Fewer human mistakes thanks to automated checks.
• Always up to date – Software automatically follows regulatory changes, keeping you proactively compliant.

By making smart use of automation, you will be fully prepared for ENS 2025, avoid unnecessary risks, and strengthen your competitive position.

Which ENS rules apply to UK-Ireland shipments?

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.

• From Ireland to the UK:
  - From 31 January 2025, every shipment from Ireland to Great Britain must have an ENS submitted via the S&S GB system.
• From the UK to Ireland:
  - ENS requirements for shipments from the UK to Ireland may differ. The Irish customs authorities determine whether an ENS is required, depending on the types of goods and transport method.

How do ENS rules for Ireland differ from those for the UK?

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.

Conclusion - ENS 2025 requires action

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.

Start testing TIMOCOM today

Frequently Asked Questions

When does ENS need to be submitted?

ENS must be submitted before goods arrive in the UK. The exact deadline depends on the mode of transport.

Do I need an ENS for every type of freight?

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.

What happens if transport details change after ENS submission?

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. 

Can a freight forwarder submit ENS on my behalf?

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.