Effective 30 September 2024, the UK Government has introduced significant updates under The Windsor Framework, impacting the shipment of parcels from Great Britain (GB) to Northern Ireland (NI). These changes necessitate additional data, tailored to the nature of the sender and recipient.

Key Updates for All Senders:

• Goods Description: A plain English description is required for each item in the shipment, alongside its weight, value, and origin.

Business to Business (B2B) Shipments:

For businesses, extra information will be needed, and immediate action is advised. The shipment routes are categorised into 'green' and 'red' lanes as outlined below:

‘Green’ Lane Shipments:

• Criteria: For B2B goods destined to remain in Northern Ireland, classified under the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS).

• Action Required: Obtain and register for a UKIMS number with the UK Government.

• Information Needed: The sender or recipient’s UKIMS number must be provided, with the holder being declared as the importer of record.

For ease, apply for a UKIMS number here. If the recipient in Northern Ireland holds the UKIMS number, forward this guidance and ask them to submit their UKIMS number.

‘Red’ Lane Shipments:

• Criteria: B2B goods not qualifying under UKIMS and deemed ‘at risk’ of leaving Northern Ireland, thus requiring a full international dataset for declaration.

• Duties: ‘At risk’ shipments will incur the applicable European Union (EU) rate of duty.

• Account Authorisation: For those using a deferment account linked to your NI EORI number for Customs charges, authorise DHL to apply charges to this account. Guidance on this process can be found here.

Additional Recommendations:

• HS Codes: While not mandatory, including HS codes is recommended from 30 September 2024.

For further details on The Windsor Framework, visit the UK Government’s guidance here.