An Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is a type of Safety and Security Declaration (SSD) used by border authorities to assess the potential risks of goods crossing the border.
In a way, the ENS is like a simplified version of an import declaration, as all the information included in an ENS can also be found in import declarations. So, you might wonder, what's the point of duplicating data and creating additional work? The government's response is that while the main purpose of import declarations is to calculate taxes and duties, safety and security declarations are specifically designed to assess potential risks associated with importing goods into the country.
In Europe, there are two types of ENS: GB ENS (also known as S&S GB), which has been mandatory for goods coming from the EU since 31 January 2025, and EU ENS.
GB ENS declarations are submitted directly to HMRC via an API or through a customs broker. There were plans to create a user interface for GB ENS in the Single Trade Window, but it seems this won't happen anytime soon.
EU ENS declarations are submitted into the Import Control System (ICS) using an API or through a customs broker. In the new version of the EU system, known as ICS2, users will also have the option to submit declarations via a user interface.
Our other guides explain ENS declarations in more detail, with a focus on GB ENS. Good next reads are Whose responsibility is it to submit an S&S GB declaration? and Do you need an ENS for an empty vehicle?
Questions
What is an ENS?
An Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is a type of safety and security declaration that border authorities use to assess the potential risks of goods crossing the border, before the goods arrive.
How is a GB ENS submitted?
GB ENS (S&S GB) declarations are submitted directly to HMRC through an API, using compatible software, or through a customs broker. There is no HMRC online form for them.
