Safety and Security Declarations (SSDs): What Are They?

In today’s post-Brexit trade environment, Safety and Security Declarations (SSDs) play a critical role in ensuring smooth, compliant cross-border movement of goods. While they are not customs documents in the traditional sense, SSDs are required for both imports and exports to and from the United Kingdom, and failure to comply can lead to significant delays or penalties.

As an experienced freight forwarder in the UK, K&L Freight helps businesses navigate the complex requirements of modern shipping—including SSDs—by offering tailored, end-to-end logistics solutions.

What Are SSDs?

Safety and Security Declarations (SSDs) are electronic notifications submitted to border authorities ahead of a shipment’s arrival or departure. Their main purpose is to allow customs to assess potential security risks, such as smuggling or terrorism, associated with a consignment.

There are two key types of SSDs:

• Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) – for goods arriving in the UK

• Exit Summary Declarations (EXS) – for goods departing from the UK

These documents form part of the UK’s border control infrastructure and have become especially relevant since the full implementation of post-Brexit customs controls.

Read more from the UK Government on safety and security declarations

Why Are SSDs Important?

While SSDs are not directly linked to customs duties or VAT, they are mandatory for most commercial shipments crossing UK borders. Submitting accurate SSDs ensures:

• Border clearance without delays

• Compliance with UK and EU safety regulations

• Reduced risk of penalties or seizure of goods

For time-sensitive or high-value freight, proper SSD management is essential to maintaining supply chain continuity and customer satisfaction.

SSDs for Imports (Entry Summary Declarations)

Any goods entering the UK—whether from the EU or beyond—typically require an ENS. These must be submitted via the Safety and Security GB (S&S GB) service before goods arrive in the UK.

Who submits the ENS?
Usually the carrier (e.g., haulier, shipping line), though it can also be done by a customs agent or freight forwarder like K&L Freight on behalf of the trader.

Deadlines vary by transport mode:

• Road freight from EU: ENS due at least 1 hour before arrival

• Sea freight from deep-sea ports: ENS required 24 hours before loading

 Learn about the S&S GB system

SSDs for Exports (Exit Summary Declarations)

An EXS is required when goods leave the UK under certain conditions:

• When no full export declaration has been made

• When the carrier is not the declarant

• For empty containers, postal consignments, and certain transit goods

EXSs must also be submitted through the S&S GB portal and are typically the responsibility of the carrier or logistics provider.

At K&L Freight, we coordinate this process seamlessly alongside our export freight services, giving clients peace of mind.

When SSDs Are Required

The requirement and timing of SSDs depend on:

• Mode of transport (road, rail, sea, air)

• Origin/destination (e.g., EU vs non-EU)

• Type of goods (general cargo, dangerous goods, empty containers, etc.)

Example: For sea freight from non-EU countries, an ENS must be lodged 24 hours before vessel loading.

There are some exemptions, such as goods moving under Transit procedures or temporary storage.

How K&L Freight Simplifies SSD Compliance

As part of our customs and shipping consultancy services, K&L Freight provides:

• 24/7 SSD submission and compliance support

• Real-time documentation tracking

• Integration with multimodal freight options including road, sea, and air

• Expert handling of hazardous and restricted goods

We work directly with the UK Government’s systems and maintain ongoing updates with changes in customs clearance regulations and international freight rules.

FIATA on global freight forwarding standards

Post-Brexit & SSDs: What’s Changed?

Since the UK formally left the EU customs union, full border controls have been gradually phased in. SSDs are now required for nearly all freight moving between the UK and EU, though there are temporary easements for Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework.

As these regulations evolve, K&L Freight continues to support clients with clear, reliable guidance and fast document handling across all borders.

Conclusion: Stay Compliant, Stay Moving

SSDs may be just one part of the shipping process, but non-compliance can grind your supply chain to a halt. For importers, exporters, and freight operators alike, understanding and managing these requirements is essential.

At K&L Freight, we combine decades of experience with real-time tools and 24/7 support to ensure your cargo clears every checkpoint—on time and without stress. Contact K&L Freight for expert help with SSDs and all your freight forwarding needs.