Do you need an ENS to bring goods into Great Britain?
Usually, yes. Most goods arriving in Great Britain need an entry summary declaration (ENS) before they arrive. Here is who makes it, when, and what happens if it is missing.
What an ENS is
An ENS gives the border authorities safety and security information about goods before they reach Great Britain. It is separate from the import declaration: the ENS is about security, the import declaration is about duty and VAT. For Great Britain it is lodged on the Safety and Security GB service (S&S GB).
Who has to make it
The law puts it on the carrier: the operator of the means of transport that brings the goods into Great Britain. A customs agent can lodge it on the carrier's behalf, but only with the carrier's knowledge and consent, and the carrier stays responsible for it.
Deadlines for road freight
- Lorry on a ferry, with a driver: 2 hours before arrival.
- Unaccompanied trailer on a ferry: 2 hours before arrival.
- Through the Channel Tunnel: 1 hour before arrival at the Eurotunnel terminal in Coquelles, France.
When you do not need one
Qualifying Northern Ireland goods moving to Great Britain need no ENS. A short list of other goods is exempt too, such as electrical energy, goods moved by pipeline, letters and printed matter, and travellers' personal luggage. If you are not sure, ask before the goods move.
If it is missing or wrong
HMRC says its enforcement is evidence based and proportionate. A missing or wrong ENS can still mean delays at the border and penalties under the Customs Safety and Security (Penalty) Regulations 2019.
How we handle it
We line the ENS up with the import declaration and the GMR for the same movement, so the details match and nothing is missing when the lorry reaches the port.
Checked against HMRC guidance on GOV.UK in November 2026: Safety and security import requirements. Rules change, so talk to us before you rely on this for a movement.
Need an ENS handled?
- We check whether your movement needs one
- We lodge it with the carrier's consent
- We match it to the import declaration and GMR
- Customs support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
Not just another customs agent. An extension of your business
If you're tired of chasing replies, explaining your account again or wondering where your goods are, talk to us. No sales pitch. Just straight-talking, practical support from people who understand customs.