On the 31st of January 2024, the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) will be enforcing phased changes to the import procedures for SPS Controls.
Changes at a Glance:
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- Products are categorised as low, medium, or high risk based on their commodity codes and country of origin. To determine the risk category of your products, download the Searchable Excel Spreadsheet by GOV.UK and enter your commodity code.
- Low-risk items currently do not need an EHC.
- Medium-risk products now require an Export Health Certificate (EHC) and IPAFFS, especially when coming from the EU (including Ireland) into GB.
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- Medium-risk items will be randomly selected for inspection From the end of January 2024 to the end of April 2024. If called for, the load will not be held and no charges will be levied at this stage. If not compliant, goods can be destroyed and the company will be given feedback. Reoccurring errors will be flagged to the company.
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- High-risk categories such as germinal products (e.g., embryos and semen) won’t see any immediate changes as they already require EHCs.
Export Health Certificate (EHC):
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- Customers will need to proactively request a copy of the EHC from their suppliers.
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- The EU exporter must apply for the GB health certificate in their own country.
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- Border control prefers a Digital EHC for a smoother and seamless transaction. This can be created in TRACES where you can then download a PDF version which you are required to provide to the appointed representative creating the IPAFFS.
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- Border Control still accepts a paper copy for EHC, however, a scanned copy of this will still need to be uploaded to IPAFFS.
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- If goods are moving from EU to EU and are transiting through GB using a landbridge, you are still required an EHC and IPAFFS. This may be a Streamlined transit EHC, but we’ll know more soon.
Did you know that you can learn more about these changes with upcoming DEFRA Webinars? Register today.
Stay tuned for updates, leverage GOV.UK’s resources, and contact us anytime for customs assistance. We’d be happy to help 24/7, 365 days a year.
