S&S GB: The January 2025 Deadline and What It Means for Hauliers
S&S GB became mandatory on 31 January 2025. Here's what hauliers and freight forwarders need to know about meeting the new requirements.
The S&S GB Requirement Is Now Live
On 31 January 2025, HMRC's Safety and Security Great Britain (S&S GB) system went live. From that date, Entry Summary Declarations became a legal requirement for most goods entering Great Britain.
This was a significant change for the UK freight industry — and for many hauliers and freight forwarders, it introduced new processes, new systems and new compliance obligations.
Key Deadlines by Transport Mode
The timing of your ENS submission depends on how goods are being transported:
- Road freight (accompanied): At least 1 hour before arrival at the UK border
- Short sea shipping (under 4 hours): At time of loading
- Longer sea voyages: 2 hours before arrival
- Air freight: Before loading at origin airport
Getting a GB EORI Number
To submit S&S GB declarations, you need a valid GB EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number. If you don't already have one, you'll need to register through HMRC's Government Gateway.
What Goods Are Affected?
Most goods entering Great Britain are subject to ENS requirements. Some exemptions apply — including certain goods from the Crown Dependencies and goods in transit under specific conditions. When in doubt, it's always safer to file.
Staying Compliant Going Forward
The regulations are in place and HMRC is enforcing them. Ongoing compliance requires:
- Accurate data collection before each shipment
- Timely submission (before the relevant deadline)
- Prompt amendments when details change
- A reliable system or service provider
ENS Declaration provides exactly that. Contact us to discuss how we can support your compliance.