The Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) will replace the UK Trader Scheme (UKTS/TSS) on 30 September 2023.

It will allow traders to declare their goods ‘not at risk’ if they are moving into Northern Ireland from Great Britain for sale or final use by end consumers in the UK.

‘Not at risk’ goods:

• will not be charged duty if entering Northern Ireland from free circulation in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales)
• will be charged UK duty if entering Northern Ireland from outside the EU and the UK
• will be charged UK duty if entering Northern Ireland from Great Britain and the goods were not in free circulation in Great Britain

The UK Internal Market Scheme authorisation will also give traders access to the new green lane.  Goods moving through the green lane will:

• not be subject the same processes that apply to other goods entering Northern Ireland
• only need to submit a simplified dataset, based on commercial information, including UKIMS number and green lane confirmation

Stef Heywood International Business Manager at the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce said:

“We urge companies who regularly supply goods from Great Britain into Northern Ireland to apply NOW for authorisation for the UK Internal Market Scheme.  Traders have a few months to prepare and can use this time wisely to review the compliance, records, controls and evidence requirements published online at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-authorisation-for-the-uk-internal-market-scheme-if-you-bring-goods-into-northern-ireland#apply-online  – don’t wait and leave it too near the deadline as this could impact upon goods entering Northern Ireland efficiently”

To apply for the UK Internal Market Scheme if you bring goods into Northern Ireland visit HERE

Prefer to work with an Independent Customs Agent who can submit your declarations without fuss, then please contact your local Customs team at cds@chamberelancs.co.uk or call our dedicated hotline 01254 356448.

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