Moving Goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland
Moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland requires careful customs compliance. Under the Windsor Framework, most goods moving from GB to NI follow the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS), while goods "at risk" of moving on to the EU require full customs declarations.
This guide covers everything hauliers need to know.
Do You Need a GMR?
Yes. All commercial hauliers moving goods from GB to Northern Ireland require a Goods Movement Reference (GMR) created through the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS). The GMR must be presented at the GB departure port before boarding.
The Windsor Framework
The Windsor Framework, agreed in 2023, simplified many of the previous Northern Ireland Protocol requirements. Key changes include:
- Green Lane: For goods staying in Northern Ireland, using the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS)
- Red Lane: For goods "at risk" of moving on to the EU, requiring full customs procedures
- Simplified processes for retail goods moving under UKIMS
Required Declarations
Safety & Security (ENS)
For most movements, you need a TSS ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) via the Trader Support Service (TSS). TSS is free to use and provides a direct route for GB to NI declarations.
Customs Declarations (SFD)
Depending on your goods:
- Non-controlled goods under UKIMS: Your EORI number may be sufficient
- Controlled goods (e.g., excise goods, certain agricultural products): Full customs declaration with MRN required
The GMR
Once your TSS declarations are confirmed, you use these references to create your GMR in GVMS.
Step-by-Step Process
- Register with TSS (free at tradersupportservice.co.uk)
- Submit your ENS safety and security declaration through TSS
- Submit your SFD customs declaration through TSS (if required)
- Receive confirmation emails from TSS with your declaration references
- Register with GVMS (if not already registered)
- Create your GMR in GVMS using your TSS references
- Driver presents GMR at GB departure port
- Arrival in NI: Driver follows customs instructions
Common Issues and Solutions
"My GMR was rejected at the port"
The most common causes are: incorrect declaration references, goods not matching declarations, or expired declarations. Our team can quickly diagnose and fix GMR issues.
"I don't know if my goods are 'at risk'"
The UKIMS "not at risk" criteria include: goods sold to NI end consumers, goods moved by UKIMS-authorised traders, and goods not likely to enter the EU market.
"My goods need special treatment"
Certain goods including plants, animals, excise goods and controlled items have additional requirements. Contact our team for specialist advice.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to have a valid GMR can result in:
- Being turned away at the port
- Penalties of up to £2,500 per movement
- Goods seizure in serious cases
How CreateGMR Can Help
Our GVMS specialists manage the entire GMR process for GB to NI movements:
- TSS declaration reference collection and verification
- GMR creation in GVMS
- Pre-boarding compliance checks
- 24/7 availability
Contact our team today to ensure your next GB to NI movement is compliant and smooth.