Learn about UK Veterinary Border & SPS Controls: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
This guide addresses key questions about UK Veterinary import controls
to help you navigate the complexities of importing food and food products goods into Great Britain.
Here are the six questions we will answer in this blog:
What are my IPAFFS requirements?
What product category does my product fall under?
What is the risk category for my product?
Do I need an Export Health Certificate (EHC)?
What simplifications are available in UK SPS & Veterinary Border Controls?
What are the rules for Border Control Posts (BCPs)?
1. What are my IPAFFS requirements?
IPAFFS (Import of Products, Animals, Food and Feed System) mandates that importers or their agents must notify authorities in advance before importing goods into Great Britain. It remains necessary for animal products to have their arrival pre-notified through IPAFFS. It is essential to understand your pre-arrival notification responsibilities to maintain compliance.
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2. What product categories do my products fall under?
The UK SPS controls classify goods into various categories. The most important ones are:
Products of Animal Origin (POAO): These include any goods derived from animals and require strict controls.
Animal By-Products (ABP): Products derived from animals but not intended for human consumption.
Composite Products: These contain both animal-derived and non-animal ingredients.
To understand the category your goods fall into:
3. What is the risk category for my product?
Under the UK Border Target Operating Model (TOM), products are assigned to risk categories—low, medium, or high—based on the potential threat they pose to human, animal, or plant health. The level of certification and controls needed varies by risk category.
Low Risk: Less stringent checks and controls.
Medium and High Risk: More detailed documentation, certification, and checks required.
To find out the risk category for your product:
4. Do I need an Export Health Certificate (EHC)?
Certain consignments—particularly those that are medium- or high-risk—require an Export Health Certificate (EHC). This certificate ensures that the product complies with SPS regulations and is safe for importation into Great Britain.
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5. What simplifications are available under UK SPS and Veterinary Border Controls?
There are various simplifications that can streamline the process for businesses involved in importing goods into the UK, including:
Groupage: This simplification allows multiple consignments to be grouped together, which can reduce administrative burdens.
Accredited Trusted Trader Scheme (ATT): Under the TOM, this pilot scheme offers benefits for trusted traders, allowing them to streamline their processes and reduce the risk of delays.
Learn How to Get Involved in the ATT SPS UK Veterinary Border Scheme
6. What are the rules for Border Control Posts (BCPs)?
Certain goods, particularly those under SPS regulations, need to enter through Border Control Posts (BCPs) designated to receive them. These goods may be subject to documentary, identity, and physical checks. It’s essential to understand which BCPs your goods need to enter through and what checks they will undergo.
Conclusion
By understanding these key elements—IPAFFS requirements, product categorization, risk assessment, EHCs, available simplifications, and BCP rules—you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the UK’s veterinary and SPS border controls. If you need further assistance or have more specific questions, feel free to reach out!
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