Policy & Compliance
Challenges, common errors and how to get it right Safety & Security declarations
T he introduction of the Safety & Security (S&S GB) declaration earlier this year completed the implementation of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), marking a signi fi cant milestone in the UK’s post-Brexit border strategy. As of May 2025, all goods entering Great Britain must comply with stringent S&S regulations, reinforcing the country’s border security while ensuring a smooth flow of goods. As businesses adjust to the new requirements, several common errors have been identified, prompting Border Force to continue its educational approach to boost compliance and support hauliers and carriers. Some of the most common errors include: Incorrect data entries: Many declarations contain mistakes in key fields such as commodity codes, consignment details, or transport information, leading to delays in processing. Omissions in Safety & Security data: Missing mandatory data elements, particularly trailer identification, container numbers and location details which affect shipment tracking. Timing Issues: Some declarations are submitted with generic time template – eg 00:01 – rather than actual estimated arrival schedules and consequently fail to meet the required timeframes based on the mode of transport. Responsible party declaration: There have been instances
where declarants failed to provide responsible party
contact information for unaccompanied goods. Incorrect risk assessment data: Errors in providing accurate descriptions of goods or their intended use leading to misclassification and potential compliance risks. To support businesses, Freight Engagement and Data (FEDAT) officers have committed to an ongoing educational approach, helping traders understand the requirements and rectify errors. Rather than taking immediate enforcement action, in the next few months, the authorities are prioritising guidance and feedback to ensure smooth adaptation to the new system. As officers identify further common errors, the insights will be shared to help traders improve their compliance. Traders are encouraged to review their processes and ensure that data accuracy is a priority in all declarations. BIFA has also advised Members to stay updated on guidance and seek clarification when necessary. Please scan the QR code to access the slides from the joint webinar where Border Force representatives explained in detail the common errors found in declarations and shared clarification on correct
• Review of bespoke client agreements, including
agreements covering specific business activities. All of these agreements, where they exist, should be “subject to BIFA STC”, but the question is, which set? All will need to be checked. Where agreements state “current BIFA STC”, no change is required as they automatically update, but if they refer to the 2021 edition, amendment is required. • Advising partners – Members will need to make overseas offices and agents/correspondents aware of the change and include the new STC in agency agreements. BIFA is working on having the new STC available for Members as soon as possible, but they will need to be carefully assessed from a compliance perspective prior to their issuance. BIFA intends to hold a series of online webinars and other events to advise Members on the most significant changes between the 2021 edition and its successor. The BIFA Secretariat will be happy to answer any questions on this subject – please contact Robert
“ BIFA intends to hold a series of online webinars and other events to advise Members on the most signi fi cant changes between the 2021 edition and its successor
declaration completion instructions.
Windsor via email to: r.windsor@bifa.org.
May 2025 | 17
www.bifa.org
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