Full Border Controls on EU Imports Starting April 30, 2025

Starting April 30, 2025, the UK government will implement full border controls on EU imports, including all sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) goods. This change will impact businesses across the UK, as it introduces new documentation requirements, customs procedures, and potential delays at the border. To ensure your supply chain runs smoothly, it’s crucial to prepare for these upcoming changes. Here’s what you need to know:

Additional Documentation Requirements

With the introduction of full border controls, businesses will need to provide detailed documentation for their imports. For SPS goods—such as food, plants, and animals—this includes:

• Health and safety certificates
• Phytosanitary certificates for plant-based products
• Importer declarations and customs paperwork

Make sure that all necessary paperwork is ready and accurate before your goods reach the UK border to avoid delays or potential fines. It’s advisable to work closely with suppliers and customs brokers to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Expect Customs Delays

The introduction of more thorough checks at UK borders means that customs clearance may take longer than before. The increased scrutiny of imports, especially SPS goods, will likely result in delays as goods undergo more detailed inspections.

To minimize the impact on your operations, plan for longer lead times in your supply chain and keep customers informed about potential delays. You may also want to explore options for customs pre-clearance or use trusted traders to expedite the process where possible.

Supply Chain Adjustments

To stay ahead of the curve, take the following actions to adapt your supply chain:

Communicate with suppliers and partners: Ensure that all parties involved in the supply chain, including freight forwarders and customs brokers, are aware of the upcoming changes. This may involve updating contracts or agreements to reflect new responsibilities for documentation and compliance.

Invest in new systems or processes: You may need to invest in new systems or software to handle the increased volume of documentation and ensure compliance with new customs regulations.

Conduct a supply chain audit: Review your current import and export processes to identify potential bottlenecks or areas where delays might occur. Work with your logistics teams to develop solutions.

Compliance with SPS Regulations

Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) goods—such as food, plants, and animal products—will face even stricter checks under the new border controls. These products will require:

• Inspections upon arrival
• Certification to prove they meet UK health and safety standards

This means that businesses importing SPS goods must ensure their products are fully compliant with these requirements, which may include updating their sourcing practices or adjusting shipping procedures.

Conclusion

With the UK’s implementation of full border controls on EU imports set for April 30, 2025, businesses need to act now to avoid disruptions to their supply chains. By preparing for additional documentation requirements, customs delays, and stricter SPS regulations, you can minimize the impact of these changes and ensure smooth operations. The key to success is early preparation, clear communication with your supply chain partners, and staying informed about regulatory updates.

Prepare today to stay ahead of the curve and avoid costly disruptions in the future!