Identify your GB-NI trade problem
Moving goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland involves UKIMS authorisation, customs processes, product marking, and labelling. Identify your issue below.
Choose your problem:
UKIMS authorisation delayed or rejected
UKIMS authorisation allows your goods to use the simplified green lane. If your application has been delayed or rejected:
- Delayed: Processing can take up to 25 working days. Check your Government Gateway account for status updates or contact HMRC
- Rejected: Common reasons include incomplete information, goods intended for the EU market, or unmet turnover requirements. Reapply once you have addressed the reason
- While waiting: The Trader Support Service can submit declarations on your behalf as an interim measure
Trading with Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework
Comprehensive guide covering UKIMS registration, EORI requirements, green and red lane routing, NIRMS for food products, duty relief, and VAT.
Customs declaration errors or goods held
If your goods have been stopped or a declaration has been rejected:
- Wrong commodity code: Check your Trader Goods Profile and correct the code using the Trade Tariff Tool on GOV.UK
- Missing EORI: You cannot move goods without a valid GB EORI. Apply through HMRC if you do not have one
- Routed to red lane: If goods were classified as "at risk" of entering the EU, full customs requirements apply. Check whether you qualify for UKIMS to use the green lane
NIRMS labelling non-compliance
If you move food or agrifood products to NI under the Northern Ireland Retail Movement Scheme, "Not for EU" labelling is mandatory. From July 2025, full Phase 3 labelling requirements apply.
- Labels missing: Apply labels before goods reach NI. A 30-day grace period applies after each phase for existing inventory
- Incorrect format: Labels must be clearly visible and non-removable. Check APHA guidance for specific product requirements
- Not registered for NIRMS: Register through APHA before moving agrifood goods. Without NIRMS, your food products face full SPS checks
Product marking problems (UKCA vs CE)
Northern Ireland follows EU product rules. If you sell safety-marked products in NI, UKCA marking alone is not accepted. Products need CE marking for the NI market.
NI product standards and CE marking
Guide to product marking requirements for the Northern Ireland market, including which standards apply and how to ensure compliance with both GB and NI rules.
EORI number issues
Without the right EORI number, your goods cannot clear customs:
- No GB EORI: Apply through HMRC's online service. GB EORI is usually issued immediately
- Need XI EORI: Required for NI-based businesses or GB businesses trading with the EU via NI. Takes up to 5 working days
- EORI not recognised: Allow 24-48 hours after issue before using a new EORI in declarations
Parcel delivery problems
From May 2025, simplified parcel arrangements apply. If parcels to NI customers are being delayed or returned:
- Consumer parcels (B2C): Your carrier should handle this under the UK Carrier Scheme. No customs declarations needed. Contact your carrier if parcels are held
- Business parcels (B2B): Either you or the recipient needs UKIMS authorisation, or the carrier must submit a CDS declaration
- Restricted items: Some goods (alcohol, tobacco, controlled drugs) have additional requirements even for consumer parcels
Get help now
The Trader Support Service is a free HMRC service specifically for GB-NI trade. They can submit declarations on your behalf and resolve issues in real time.