The countdown to Border Target Operating Model (BTOM): Safety & Security declarations go live

The long-anticipated 31 January 2025 deadline has arrived and the UK government is finally set to implement the next phase of its Border Target Operating Model (BTOM). After a series of delays and widespread industry frustration, this milestone marks a pivotal shift in how goods are imported and exported between the UK and the European Union. For businesses, this means the start of mandatory Safety and Security (S&S) declarations for EU goods entering the UK. This change will impact supply chains, customs procedures and logistics operations.

Why is the Border Target Operating Model important?

The BTOM was introduced as part of the UK’s post-Brexit strategy to streamline customs operations while strengthening biosecurity and safety at the borders. Central to this model is a risk-based approach that uses technology and data to enhance efficiency and safeguard national interests.

The upcoming changes to S&S declarations are significant because they close a regulatory gap that has existed since Brexit. EU goods were previously exempt from the requirements that already applied to goods from non-EU countries. This change aims to create a level playing field and reduce vulnerabilities in the UK’s customs framework.

What are Safety & Security declarations?

A Safety and Security (S&S) declaration is a dataset submitted to HMRC before goods arrive at the UK border. It contains information about the shipment, including:

  • The type of goods being transported.
  • The parties involved in the transaction.
  • The means of transport.

The primary purpose of the S&S declaration is to allow UK authorities to assess risks and assign a ‘risk score’ to the shipment. This enables targeted interventions, such as inspections, while ensuring that the majority of goods flow smoothly across the border.

Until now, these declarations have been mandatory for goods from non-EU countries and for most UK exports since 2021. Starting 31 January 2025, EU goods will also fall under this requirement.

What happens on 31 January 2025?

From this date, all businesses importing goods from the EU into the UK will need to submit S&S declarations prior to their arrival. Failure to comply could result in delays, fines, or the refusal of entry for goods. It is crucial for companies to take immediate action to avoid disruption.

The introduction of these declarations represents a critical step in the UK’s efforts to align its customs practices with international standards and mitigate risks such as smuggling and biosecurity threats.

How should businesses prepare?

If your company is involved in trade between the EU and the UK, preparation is key. Here are some steps to ensure you’re ready for 31 January:

  1. Understand the requirements: Familiarise yourself with the data fields required for S&S declarations. Guidance is available on the UK government’s official website.
  2. Register for the Single Trade Window (STW): This platform will serve as the central hub for submitting declarations. Ensure your business has access to the system and that your staff are trained to use it.
  3. Update your processes: Review your supply chain and identify touchpoints where customs data needs to be collected. Ensure that your systems and workflows are optimised for the additional administrative burden.
  4. Communicate with suppliers: Inform your EU suppliers about the upcoming changes and collaborate to ensure all necessary information is exchanged promptly.

Berencourt Global Logistics

For businesses that find these new regulations overwhelming or lack the in-house expertise to handle them, partnering with a specialist can be a game-changer. Berencourt Global Logistics offers expert guidance on navigating the complexities of Brexit and import/export compliance. Our team can manage the entire process for you, from ensuring timely submissions to resolving potential bottlenecks at the border.

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