HMRC Update on Holyhead and Sevington Inland Border Facilities
HMRC has published an update on the future of customs infrastructure at the Sevington and Holyhead Inland Border Facilities. Here is the short version.
What is changing
The IBFs were a temporary measure introduced after the UK left the EU. From early 2027, HMRC expects customs checks to transition to infrastructure provided by the border locations themselves.
At Sevington, checks are expected to move to alternative locations provided by the Port of Dover and Getlink, who operate Eurotunnel. At Holyhead, checks are expected to move to infrastructure provided by the port operator within Holyhead Port. Exact timings are still subject to confirmation.
The transit impact
This is the change most likely to affect day to day operations. From early 2027, transit movements can no longer be started or ended at Sevington. Traders will need to either use the facilities provided by the border location, use an Authorised Consignor or Consignee on a commercial basis, or use the transit simplification process at their own or their client's premises.
The Port of Dover will provide transit facilities for goods moving through Dover, and Getlink's existing facilities remain in operation. Both will share more detail in the coming weeks.
SPS checks at Sevington Border Control Post are not affected and continue as normal.
What you need to do now
Nothing immediately. Both IBFs should be used exactly as they are today until HMRC confirms otherwise.
That said, if your movements rely on Sevington or Holyhead for transit, this is worth planning for now. Authorised Consignor or Consignee status and the transit simplification process both take time to put in place.
You can read the full HMRC announcement here: Update on Holyhead and Sevington IBFs 5 August
How we can help
We are already reviewing what this means for customer routings and transit arrangements. If you would like to talk through how your shipments might be affected, or what your options look like from 2027, please get in touch.