HM Revenue & Customs is preparing to change how customs and transit checks are delivered for traffic currently using the Sevington Inland Border Facility in Kent. The transition is expected from early 2027, although the final implementation date has not yet been confirmed.
For businesses, the immediate message is clear: current procedures remain in place for now. Traders and hauliers should continue to use Sevington where instructed until HMRC publishes further operational details.
What is changing
Sevington was established as a government-funded inland border facility following the UK’s departure from the European Union. HMRC is now moving towards a model in which customs infrastructure serving affected border routes is provided commercially rather than directly funded and operated by government.
From the transition date, Sevington is expected to stop providing facilities for starting and ending Common Transit Convention movements. Customs checks currently undertaken through the site are also expected to move to alternative facilities serving Dover and Channel Tunnel traffic.
Regular transit users may also wish to consider whether Authorised Consignor or Authorised Consignee status is appropriate. GOV.UK guidance confirms that eligible businesses can apply to start or end transit movements at authorised premises rather than attending a customs office.
A similar change is planned for the Holyhead Inland Border Facility in Wales.
What remains unchanged
There is no immediate change to existing customs processes or requirements. Businesses should not alter routing or driver instructions until confirmed guidance is issued.
Sanitary and phytosanitary checks at the Sevington Border Control Post are not affected by this customs infrastructure change and are expected to continue until further notice. This distinction will be important for consignments that are subject to both customs and SPS controls.
What this means for businesses
Importers, exporters and manufacturers across the Thames Valley frequently use south-east England routes for EU trade. Businesses that rely on Sevington for transit formalities, customs checks or carnet processing should identify which movements may be affected and prepare for revised routing in 2027.
HMRC’s policy papers also recognise that businesses may face one-off familiarisation costs as procedures change, and that border infrastructure costs could potentially be passed on to trade. Exact commercial arrangements have not yet been confirmed.
Recommended action
Our International trade team recommends that businesses map their current use of Sevington now, including transit movements, customs checks and any linked driver instructions. Companies with regular transit activity should also review whether an authorised consignor or consignee arrangement could reduce reliance on attendance at a border facility.
For support, contact the international trade team on 01753 870560 or email trade@tvchamber.co.uk
