GB Safety & Security: Embracing Compliance Ahead of the Deadline

Following a recent extension, the deadline for mandatory compliance with the UK’s GB Safety & Security (GB S&S) system for imports from the EU has moved from October 31, 2024, to January 31, 2025. This shift provides businesses with additional time to adapt to the new post-Brexit requirements for Safety and Security declarations on EU imports, acknowledging the need for readiness across various sectors  

However, the UK government has underscored the importance of early adoption, encouraging all businesses prepared to start submitting these declarations to do so as soon as possible, rather than waiting until the January deadline. Early adopters will not only help reduce the risk of operational disruptions but will also contribute to a smoother compliance transition, ensuring that they remain agile and responsive in the evolving trade landscape. 

As the UK builds its post-Brexit regulatory framework, the GB Safety & Security (GB S&S) system—also sometimes known as GB ICS or S&S GB—stands as a key requirement for cross-border trade. Acting as the UK’s version of the EU’s Import Control System (ICS), GB S&S is designed to protect the UK from potential safety and security risks tied to incoming cargo, including threats from illicit goods or hazardous materials. With mandatory detailed, pre-arrival cargo information requirements, the GB S&S system helps the UK maintain border safety across all modes of transport. 

While GB S&S shares similarities with the EU’s ICS, there are significant differences. For instance, GB S&S focuses only on Pre-Arrival filings, unlike ICS2, which includes both Pre-Arrival and Pre-Loading filings. Furthermore, the UK’s system doesn’t involve a Request for Information (RFI) process, nor does it require dual filings or HS codes as mandatory. The GB S&S system is straightforward but critical, relying on timely, advanced data from importers and carriers to uphold security standards. 

Initially, the UK government provided a waiver for imports from the EU, giving businesses time to adapt to the new post-Brexit requirements without the immediate pressure of compliance. However, this transitional grace period ends on January 31, 2025. From that date on, all imports into the UK from the EU will require an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) under GB S&S. This is a substantial shift for many businesses, especially those that have not had to submit such filings before. 

Businesses cannot afford to wait until January 31 to act. Early preparation is the key to avoiding last-minute disruptions, gaining operational certainty, and meeting regulatory demands with confidence. Adopting these processes now will not only ease the transition but also position your business for smoother trade operations moving forward.

The GB S&S system and the impending waiver expiration will impact a range of stakeholders across logistics and trade. Those who will be most affected include: 

• Short Sea Maritime Carriers: These carriers, shipping from the EU to the UK, will face substantial changes in documentation and filing requirements under GB S&S. Early adoption will allow for smoother compliance adaptation. 
  
  
• Deep Sea Carriers: While deep-sea carriers currently file ENS for non-EU shipments, they will need to extend these processes to include EU-sourced goods. Starting preparations now can help integrate these additional steps into existing workflows. 
  
  
• Hauliers: Carriers transporting goods by road from the EU to the UK must ensure compliance with GB S&S, even if they have limited experience with these requirements. Early action will help them identify and close any data gaps that might hinder timely filings. 
  
  
• Freight Forwarders: These businesses must verify that every shipment they manage complies with GB S&S requirements, particularly those handling large shipment volumes. Early adoption will help build an efficient system for meeting filing obligations. 
  
  
• Air Carriers: EU-based air carriers exporting goods to the UK will need to update their processes to meet GB S&S filing standards. Early compliance planning can smooth the operational transition and help establish efficient filing systems. 

Early adopters have the advantage of addressing the unique challenges of GB S&S compliance with time to spare. Key hurdles include: 

• Data Management: Carriers must ensure they have access to accurate cargo information. Starting early allows time to streamline data collection processes. 
  
  
• System Readiness: Many businesses may need new or upgraded systems to handle GB S&S filings. Implementing these systems now will prevent delays in January 2025. 
  
  
• Process Integration: Businesses with complex logistics chains need to integrate GB S&S requirements without disrupting existing operations. Preparing early minimizes the risk of integration issues as the deadline approaches. 
  
  
• Expertise and Training: Keeping up with evolving regulations and training teams to handle GB S&S compliance is critical. Early training builds organizational readiness for seamless operations under the new regime. 

To streamline the compliance process, businesses can leverage platforms such as Descartes Customs and Global Safety Filing solutions: 

• Existing Connectivity: Descartes is already supporting many customers for their GB S&S filings, making compliance simpler and reducing the risk of last-minute adjustments. 
  
  
• SaaS Flexibility: As a cloud-based service, Descartes' Customs and Global Safety Filing solutions do not require heavy upfront investment, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. 
  
  
• UI and Integration Options: Whether companies need a user-friendly interface or a fully-integrated solution with existing systems, Descartes Customs and Global Safety Filing solutions provide flexible options. 

For companies already using Descartes Customs systems, integrating with GB S&S filing can be seamless, minimizing disruptions and creating an efficient workflow for customs compliance. 

With the January 31, 2025 deadline fast approaching, now is the time to prepare for GB S&S compliance. Early adoption offers significant benefits: 

• Evaluate Current Systems: Identify gaps in your current setup and implement necessary adjustments now to ensure compliance readiness. 
  
  
• Invest in Training: Provide early training on GB S&S requirements to avoid rushed learning curves and potential errors as the deadline nears. 
  
  
• Partner with Experts: Descartes and similar platforms offer comprehensive support to simplify compliance and ensure your operations are prepared. 
  
  
• Stay Informed: Regulations evolve, and early adopters are more likely to stay on top of necessary changes, minimizing last-minute adjustments and ensuring ongoing compliance.