Britain’s long-delayed third phase of post-Brexit border policies for imports from the European Union (EU) comes into effect on Friday, nearly four years after the UK formally exited the bloc’s single market and nine years after the Brexit referendum.
The complex process of restructuring supply chains and establishing new customs borders meant that the UK only began enforcing its new border regulations last year.
The first phase, which required additional certification for certain goods, was introduced in January 2023. This was followed by the second phase in April 2023, which brought in physical inspections at ports for products such as meat, fish, dairy, eggs, and some cut flowers, alongside new charges.
The third phase, initially scheduled for October 31, 2023, was postponed but will now require businesses importing goods from the EU to comply with UK safety and security declaration requirements—detailed documentation about the nature of the products being transported.

According to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), collecting this additional data will allow for more efficient risk assessments, ensuring that legitimate goods face fewer delays while preventing illegal or unsafe products from entering the UK. However, businesses must submit declarations before their goods arrive at the UK border to avoid unnecessary checks and penalties.
While major retailers and large EU exporters are equipped to manage the new system, smaller businesses have raised concerns about the additional administrative burden.
In response to the new challenges, UK Finance Minister Rachel Reeves said on Sunday that she was open to considering a proposal by European Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic, suggesting that Britain could join a pan-European customs scheme. However, Reeves clarified that this would not mean rejoining the EU’s full customs union, a move the Labour government has ruled out.
The latest border changes mark another step in Britain’s post-Brexit trade realignment, with businesses and policymakers continuing to navigate the complexities of new customs procedures.