International trade in agricultural and plant-based products is tightly regulated — and for good reason. Pests and plant diseases can spread quickly and cause severe damage to crops, biodiversity and the economy. That’s why phytosanitary checks are a vital part of the import and export process.
But what are they exactly and how do they affect your supply chain?
What are Phytosanitary checks?
Phytosanitary checks are official inspections required when importing or exporting regulated plant products. They are designed to prevent the spread of harmful organisms between countries. These inspections are carried out at Border Control Posts (BCPs) and typically involve documentary checks, identity verification and physical examination of goods.
The goal? To ensure that imported or exported items meet the plant health standards of the destination country — whether it’s within the EU, the UK, or further abroad.
When are Phytosanitary checks required?
If you are moving goods that originate from plants or agricultural sources, there’s a good chance they’re subject to plant health regulations. A phytosanitary certificate, issued by the exporting country’s authority, is often required to confirm that the goods have been inspected and found free from harmful organisms.
Examples of goods that typically require checks include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Cut flowers and live plants
- Seeds, bulbs, and grains
- Timber and wooden packaging
- Soil or growing media
Missing documentation or failure to comply with these rules can result in long delays, rejected shipments, or even destruction of goods. A costly outcome no importer wants to face.
How the inspection process works
When goods arrive at the border, officials assess the documentation and may carry out a physical inspection. The level of inspection depends on the risk profile of the goods and their origin. High-risk goods are more likely to be checked thoroughly.
Clear communication with your freight forwarder and timely pre-notification of your consignment are essential. If your goods aren’t properly declared or scheduled for inspection, the entire shipment can be held.
The impact on supply chains
Phytosanitary checks can influence your planning, especially when dealing with perishable or time-sensitive goods. Delays at the border — even minor ones — can reduce shelf life and affect quality. For exporters, rejections or additional checks can damage client relationships and increase costs.
This is why it’s important to plan ahead, ensure compliance from the start and work with a logistics partner who understands the regulations.
How Berencourt supports your Phytosanitary imports and exports
Berencourt Global Logistics specialises in handling shipments that require phytosanitary clearance. We support businesses in a wide range of industries — from floriculture and fresh produce to timber and grains — by managing every aspect of the compliance process.
With Berencourt, you can rely on:
- Expert guidance on documentation and plant health regulations
- Close coordination with customs and BCPs across the UK and EU
We make sure your goods move smoothly, with minimal delays or surprises.
Shipping goods that require Phytosanitary checks?
Our team is here to help. Whether you need advice, clearance, or a complete logistics solution, we’re ready to support you.
