Importing goods into Great Britain requires an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) for safety and security, lodged in the British Safety and Security GB system before the goods arrive. Since 2025 the obligation also covers imports from the European Union, after the earlier transitional period ended. This is security data, separate from the customs declaration.
The Polish-language version of this article is the reference one. This is an informational translation.
Who lodges it and when
Responsibility for the ENS rests in principle with the carrier, although in practice the data is often prepared by a customs agent or forwarder based on information from the sender. The declaration is lodged before arrival, within deadlines depending on the mode of transport. A credible, specific goods description is essential — generic terms such as goods or parts are rejected. The identification number for declarations is covered in the text on the EORI number.
How it connects with the rest of clearance
The ENS is a security layer, alongside the customs declaration itself and, at the GB border, the vehicle movement system GVMS. We run all these elements together within customs clearance, so the consignment does not get stuck at the border. Deadlines and details are confirmed for the specific route.
Sources
Importing into Great Britain? Describe the consignment in the contact form and we will handle the ENS, clearance and GVMS in a single order.
