Simplifying Safety & Security Declarations for Importers
Have you ever wondered how customs officials make sure that the goods entering their territories are safe? It all begins with a critical document known as the Safety and Security Declaration (SSD).
So, what exactly is an SSD? Why is this so important? What happens if it is not done properly?
This blog post will discuss SSDs, including their purpose, requirements, and best practices for compliance.
What is the Safety and Security Declaration (SSD)?
A Safety and Security Declaration (SSD) is a document used by customs authorities to assess the potential risks caused by importing goods into their territory. It is not intended to collect customs duties or taxes.
When importing into the UK and EU, submitting safety and security data via Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is mandatory to ensure compliance with the safety regulations.
As per the Union Customs Code, it is the responsibility of the “carriers” to submit the Safety & Security Declaration prior to the arrival of the goods. Incorrect or incomplete SSD could result in hefty fines or even blockage of shipments at the border.
Who should submit the SSD?
The legal responsibility for submitting a safety and security declaration lies with the carriers, who are the operators of the active means of transport by which goods are being carried.
Goods moving by rail: The carrier will be the freight operator.
Goods moving by sea or air: The carrier will be the shipping company or the airline.
Goods moving by RoRo: The carrier will be a haulage company or ferry operator.
Goods moving by combined transport: The carrier will be a trucking company for the accompanied vehicle and the ferry for the unaccompanied trailer.
What information is required to submit a Safety & Security Declaration (SSD)?
How to submit Safety and Security Declarations (SSD)?
- Register: Carriers must register for the S&S service for GB and ICS2 for EU using a Government Gateway account.
- Electronic submission: The declaration is submitted electronically to customs authorities via compatible software. You can get assistance from the iCustoms AI-driven iENS tool to submit safety and security declarations accurately and timely.
- Submission timeframe: The SSD must be submitted before goods arrive in the destination country.
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Common pitfalls in Safety & Security Declaration submission
Inaccurate or missing information: When filling out an SSD, you should pay special attention to entering the information accurately and completely. Make sure that you provide the correct information about goods, consignee, consignor, and mode of transport.
Late submission: The Safety and Security Declaration (SSD) must be submitted before the arrival of goods in the destination country; thus, the timeframe is crucial. Late submission may lead to fines and shipment delays.
Submitting a duplicate form: Choose the most recent version of the Safety and Security Declaration (SSD) form to avoid penalties and delays; thus, keeping an eye on the updates is important.
Best practices for Safety and Security Declaration (SSD) compliance
Stay updated: Keep yourself updated on the border and customs requirements so you can fill out the Safety and Security form according to the latest information.
Use advanced technology: Filling out and submitting the SSD using advanced technology guarantees accurate filling and timely submission, saving time and resources.
Seek professional assistance: If you’re unsure about the SSD requirements, get help from professionals to do the task more efficiently. The industry-leading SSD declaration partner, iCustoms, enters here to eliminate manual SSD filing and submission.
The bottom line
Businesses involved in international trading must be aware of the requirements for the Safety and Security Declaration (SSD) to avoid hefty fines and costly delays. Completing SDD accurately and timely can protect the security of the supply chain, resulting in a streamlined overall trading process.
Follow the guidelines discussed in this blog and seek help from iCustoms’ AI-driven iENS tool to ensure a smooth importing journey.
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