Skip to main content
ENS News

ENS FAQs

•8 min read

ENS FAQs

❓What exactly is the ENS and why is it required?

The ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) is a pre-arrival notification that provides customs authorities with advance information about goods being imported into the UK. It is required to assess security risks and ensure that goods comply with customs regulations before they enter the country.

❓How do I get ready for the safety and security declaration requirements for importing goods from the EU to GB from 31st January 2025?

✳Safety & Security entry summary declarations (ENS declarations) are submitted into an IT platform called Safety and Security Great Britain (S&S GB)

✳You can enter this information yourself or you can use a customs agent/intermediary such as ChannelPorts (using our CustomsProENS system)

✳If you choose to submit the ENS declaration yourself, you will need to register to use the S&S GB platform

✳In order to register, you will need to have a Government Gateway ID and password

✳You will also need a GB EORI number

✳The S&S GB service does not have a user interface and therefore data will need to be lodged using compatible software.   We can help you here as CustomsPro ENS offers a fast, easy-to-use platform for submitting ENS declarations.

If you already submit safety and security declarations for imports from countries outside the EU (or already voluntarily submit them for EU imports), you don’t need to change your existing systems or procedures if you don’t want to.

However, you can benefit from the reduced dataset by only completing the mandatory and any relevant conditional fields from 31 January 2025. See the fields here: Safety-and-Security-GB-Dataset

More information can be found here and here.

❓ Who is responsible for submitting the ENS—me or the carrier?

The responsibility for submitting the ENS lies with the carrier, which is the operator of the transport method used to move the goods. For example, hauliers are responsible for driver-accompanied vehicles, while ferry operators are responsible for unaccompanied trailers.

It is the carrier’s responsibility to make sure that the declaration is submitted within the legal time limits, and it must only be done by a representative or third party with the carrier’s knowledge and consent.

If the responsibility for submitting the ENS declaration is passed to a third party, the legal liability to make sure that the declaration has been submitted still remains with the carrier.

However, the responsibility for ensuring that the information provided is accurate lies with whoever is submitting the entry summary declaration.

❓ What information do I need to include in the ENS declaration?

The ENS declaration must include details such as the consignor and consignee information, a description of the goods, the number of packages, transport details including the mode of transport and the journey route, and other specific data fields required by customs authorities.

There will be 20 mandatory fields that must be completed for all declarations.

There will be 8 conditional fields that only need to be completed in certain circumstances.

There will be 9 optional fields, to complete or leave blank.

See the fields here: Safety-and-Security-GB-Dataset

The legal requirement is that the entry summary declaration is complete and accurate.

❓ When and how often do I need to submit an ENS declaration?

An ENS declaration must be submitted for every individual consignment entering the UK.   A container or trailer may be carrying 1, 2 or more different consignments – a declaration will be required for each of them. The timing of the submission depends on the mode of transport, with specific deadlines outlined below. More help can be found here.

❓ Are there specific deadlines for submitting ENS for different types of transport (road, sea, air, rail)?

Yes, the deadlines vary:

🚇 Eurotunnel: Road traffic (Channel Tunnel – Le Shuttle Freight) – at least 1 hour before arrival at the Eurotunnel terminal (at Coquelles, France). SS-declarations-by-EUROTUNNEL (1)

❓ What happens if I miss the ENS submission deadline?

Missing the ENS submission deadline can result in delays at the border, fines, or even refusal of entry for the goods. It is essential to submit the ENS within the required timeframe to avoid these penalties.

❓What are the penalties for non-compliance with ENS requirements?

Penalties for non-compliance can include financial fines, delays in processing and clearance, and in some cases, the goods may be denied entry into the UK or returned to the point of origin.

❓Can I amend an ENS declaration after it has been submitted?

Yes, amendments can be made to an ENS declaration, but only by the person or entity that lodged the original ENS. Amendments can be made up until the goods arrive at the first point of entry, but frequent or last-minute changes may trigger additional risk assessments.

Submitted entry summary declarations can be amended but not cancelled. If the goods will no longer be shipped, it is not necessary to inform the service.

More information can be found on the UK government website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/safety-and-security-requirements-on-imports-and-exports#imports-into-great-britain-and-northern-ireland

❓How does Brexit affect the ENS requirements for hauliers?

Brexit has led to the introduction of the ENS requirement for goods entering the UK from the EU, which was not previously required when the UK was part of the single market. Hauliers now need to ensure compliance with these new customs procedures.

While there are various platforms available, CustomsPro ENS is a recommended solution that simplifies the ENS submission process, ensuring fast, accurate, and compliant declarations.

❓How does the ENS process integrate with the UK’s Single Trade Window (STW)?

The UK’s Single Trade Window (STW) is designed to integrate all customs and trade-related submissions through a single interface. ENS declarations will be submitted through the STW, streamlining the process and reducing the need for multiple submissions.

Introduction of the UK’s STW has now been delayed.  Please see our news article about this.

❓What resources are available to help me understand and comply with ENS?

Resources such as the UK government’s official guidelines, customs brokers, and software solutions like CustomsPro ENS can provide detailed guidance and support to ensure compliance.

❓Do I need to submit an ENS for low-value shipments?

Yes, even low-value shipments require an ENS declaration. The goal is to ensure all goods and vehicles entering the UK are accounted for in terms of security and compliance.

❓How can CustomsPro ENS help me with compliance?

CustomsPro ENS offers a fast, easy-to-use platform for submitting ENS declarations. It reduces the risk of errors, ensures timely submissions, and integrates seamlessly with existing customs processes.

❓What are the costs associated with using a customs broker or software for ENS submissions?

Costs vary depending on the provider and the level of service required. CustomsPro ENS offers a fixed fee solution with no hidden costs, making it a cost-effective option for hauliers.

❓Will the ENS requirements affect my operations in other European countries?

The ENS requirements are specific to goods entering the UK. However, if you are transporting goods between other European countries and the UK, you will need to comply with both UK and EU customs regulations.

❓Is there a difference between ENS requirements for accompanied and unaccompanied goods?

The ENS requirements apply to both accompanied and unaccompanied goods, but the responsibility for submission may differ (e.g., hauliers for accompanied vehicles, ferry operators for unaccompanied trailers).

❓How do I ensure that my ENS declaration is accurate and complete?

Accuracy and completeness are critical for avoiding delays and penalties. Double-check all information before submission and use reliable software like CustomsPro ENS to minimize errors.

❓What are the most common mistakes to avoid when submitting an ENS?

Common mistakes include missing submission deadlines, incomplete or incorrect information, and failing to amend the ENS when necessary. Using an automated system like CustomsPro ENS can help avoid these issues.

❓Can I delegate the ENS submission to another party in my supply chain?

Yes, you can delegate ENS submission to a customs broker or another party in your supply chain. However, the carrier remains legally responsible for ensuring the declaration is accurate and submitted on time.

For more information about CustomsPro ENS and how it can help you prepare, visit www.channelports.co.uk or contact our team today.






Book a demo Get a quote