Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about ENS, EXS and our S&S Declaration service
What is an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS)?
An Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is a pre-arrival Safety & Security notification lodged with HMRC before goods enter Great Britain. It gives customs authorities advance cargo, consignor, consignee and routing information so they can carry out risk analysis before arrival.
What is an Exit Summary Declaration (EXS)?
An Exit Summary Declaration (EXS) is the Safety & Security declaration required when goods leave Great Britain without a full customs export declaration already containing the same data. It supports HMRC's pre-departure risk analysis on outbound cargo.
When did S&S GB become mandatory?
S&S GB (Safety & Security Great Britain) requirements for imports became mandatory on 31 January 2025. EXS requirements on the export side operate under the same pre-departure risk framework.
Who is legally responsible for submitting an ENS or EXS?
Legal responsibility sits with the carrier — the operator of the transport mode crossing the GB border. Carriers may appoint a representative (such as Safety & Security Declaration) to submit on their behalf, which is standard practice for most road, sea and air operators.
When must the ENS be submitted before arrival?
Timing depends on the transport mode. Short sea crossings typically require filing 2 hours before arrival, deep sea containerised cargo up to 24 hours before loading at the port of export, and air freight 4 hours before arrival (with earlier windows for long-haul). We calibrate cut-off times per movement.
What information is needed to file an ENS or EXS?
Key data includes: consignor and consignee details, GB EORI numbers where relevant, an accurate goods description, commodity code, number and type of packages, transport mode and conveyance details, and the estimated time of arrival or departure.
What happens if an ENS is late or missing?
A missing or late ENS can lead to cargo being held at the border, risk-based inspections, operational delays and HMRC penalties. Repeated non-compliance can trigger further enforcement against the carrier.
Do I need a GB EORI number?
Yes — a valid GB EORI number is required to submit S&S GB declarations in most scenarios. If you or a client does not yet have one, we can guide you through the HMRC registration process before your first shipment.
Can you handle amendments after submission?
Yes. If cargo details change after filing — for example a route update, a swapped trailer or a correction to the commodity code — we submit ENS or EXS amendments on your behalf as fast as possible.
Is your service available outside the UK?
Yes. Our filing service is fully online and we support importers, exporters, hauliers and freight forwarders worldwide, as long as the movement touches GB and therefore needs an ENS or EXS.
Can you handle urgent / same-day filings?
Yes. Our Urgent / Same-Day service is available 24/7 for last-minute loads, changed routings or corrections. Contact us directly by phone or email for the fastest turnaround.
How do I get started?
Contact us via the form on our contact page or call +44 1480 470 114. We'll understand your trade lanes, volumes and cut-off times, then set up a tailored filing arrangement.