ENS and GMR — Pre-Arrival Documents for UK Imports Explained
Since Brexit, two new mandatory documents apply to every truck crossing into the UK via Dover, Folkestone, or the Channel Tunnel: the ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) and the GMR (Goods Movement Reference). Without both, the driver can’t board. Here’s what each one means and who’s responsible.
Entry Summary Declaration (ENS)
The ENS is an electronic pre-arrival notification submitted to HMRC before goods enter the UK. It informs HMRC about:
- The nature of goods being imported
- The carrier and consignee details
- The expected port of entry and estimated arrival
HMRC uses ENS data for risk assessment — flagging shipments for physical inspection before the truck reaches the border. The ENS must be submitted at least 1 hour before arrival for road transport.
Goods Movement Reference (GMR)
Once the ENS is submitted and a valid export MRN exists, the customs system generates a GMR — a short alphanumeric code unique to that vehicle’s journey. The driver scans the GMR QR code at the port terminal. Without it, the terminal barrier won’t open.
Who Files the ENS and GMR?
A UK-side customs agent files the ENS in the GVMS system and generates the GMR. This is why having a customs broker who operates on both sides of the border matters — there should be no gap in communication between your UK supplier, the carrier, and your Polish customs agent.
Easyclearance.pl handles the complete ENS + GMR process 24/7 — the driver receives the GMR by WhatsApp before departure.
Cost of ENS and GMR Handling
Customs agents typically charge from £15 to £40 per shipment for ENS filing and GMR generation. At easyclearance.pl, this is included in the comprehensive import service package.
