Importing products of animal origin (POAO)
Importing Products of Animal Origin from countries outside the European Union
We are responsible for enforcing the The Trade in Animals and Related Products Regulations 2011 and ensuring that products of animal origin comply with import conditions contained within retained European Legislation. With a few exceptions, most products of animal origin may only be imported from approved establishments in approved countries.
You must notify the Border Control Post by ringing us at least 24 hours prior to the arrival of the consignment, and before it is unloaded from the aircraft. Failure to do so may lead to its rejection.
The agent/importer must present the original documentation relating to the consignment to the Border Control Post Officer without undue delay. The documentation that is required includes:
- A completed Common Health Entry Document (CHED);
- Health Certificate - this must be the original document, a copy is not acceptable;
- Air waybill;
- Invoices and packing lists (if available);
- Any other relevant accompanying documentation;
- Specific products may require additional documentation.
Upon arrival the consignment must be presented to the Border Control Post (BCP) to enable it to be inspected by the Official Veterinary Surgeon (OVS) or Official Fish Inspector (OFI) as appropriate.
Importing Products of Animal Origin from European Union countries
From 1 January 2022 businesses importing products of animal origin from the European Union must pre-notify consignments at least 4 hours in advance of arriving in Great Britain. The pre-notification must be made via the Import of Products, Animals, Food and Feed System (IPAFFS). The pre-notification reference will be required to complete the customs declaration.