Extension of certificate requirement for UK imports a reality

2nd phase with inspections at Border Control Posts starts 30 April 2024.

Questions on Brexit?

Extra requirements for veterinary and phytosanitary cargoes

Imports into the United Kingdom (UK) of phytosanitary and veterinary cargoes from a medium risk onwards will be subject to a certificate requirement fromsince 31 January 2024. From 30 April 2024, the UK government will also start inspections of these goods at Border Control Posts (BCPs). Both measures stem from the UK’s Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), with additional customs rules.

Note! 3rd phase BTOM applies to all exporters to the UK
The 3rd phase of the BTOM starts on 31 October 2024. It will also affect all other exporters to the UK. Prior to transport, an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is mandatory from then on.

Training sessions per sector

The UK government is organising online sector-specific training sessions to prepare for import controls taking effect 30 April 2024.

Key dates

For exporters of veterinary and phytosanitary cargoes

Starts 30 April 2024

The UK opens Border Control Posts to inspect incoming animal products, plants and plant products from a medium risk from the EU.

Effective since 31 January 2024

For a large group of animal products, plants and plant products from a medium risk onwards, a phytosanitary or veterinary certificate is required for imports into the UK.

Key date

For all exporters

Starts 31 October 2024

All exporters from the EU are required to submit a safety declaration (ENS) prior to transport to the UK.

Tips for smooth transport

As an exporter, this is important to do!

  • Become familiar with applying for phytosanitary or veterinary certificates and the inspections preceding them.

  • Immerse yourself in the necessary steps for smooth transport through ports on both the Dutch and UK sides.

  • Consult with your logistics service provider in good time about adjustments in your logistics chain.

    With groupage, for instance, avoid inspections in the UK of high- and medium-risk products slow down your low-risk shipments. Read more

As a logistics provider, this is important to do!

  • Make arrangements with your principals about applying for phytosanitary or veterinary certificates and the inspections preceding these.

  • Immerse yourself in the necessary steps for smooth transport through ports on both the Dutch and UK sides.

  • Think carefully about the organisation of your logistics chain.

    With groupage, for example, make sure that inspections in the UK of high- and medium-risk products do not delay the transport of low-risk shipments. Read more

What you need to know

6 key topics for smooth transport to and from the UK.

Existing customs rules remain unchanged

The customs rules already introduced by the UK because of Brexit remain unchanged. Make sure you comply with these rules. This will prevent cargo from stalling at the UK border or even already in the Dutch port.

New to transport to and from the UK

The Dutch Brexit solution?

Since the introduction of Brexit in 2021, you are required to complete 5 simple steps to ensure smooth transport through the Dutch ports. This applies to both inbound and outbound cargo.

All ferry and shortsea terminals make this chain-wide Get Ready for Brexit approach mandatory. Only correctly pre-notified cargo can enter and leave the terminal. From importer, exporter and forwarder to carrier and driver: everyone has a task to perform for Get Ready for Brexit. Together, we ensure that every transport to and from the United Kingdom always runs smoothly.

This means Brexit for you as:

Initiating partners

Supporting the logistics business via Get Ready for Brexit is a joint initiative of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, Portbase, Deltalinqs, evofenedex, Fenex and TLN.

In collaboration with

These organisations support the Get Ready for Brexit initiative and help us inform and activate their customers, members and relations.

Port of MoerdijkPort of Moerdijk