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ARCHIVE: International trade: Imports - Veterinary checks

All products of animal origin imported into the UK from countries outside the European Union (EU) must be checked at an approved border inspection post (BIP) to ensure that they meet the animal and public health import conditions. These checks include:

  • a check on the accompanying documentation
  • an identity check to ensure the product matches the details in the documents
  • a physical check on the product itself, which may include laboratory analysis.

All consignments undergo a documentary check and identity check. A percentage of products have a physical check (between 1% and 50% depending on the animal and public health risks associated with the product).

Importers’ responsibilities

Importers are required to pre-notify the border inspection post of the arrival of the consignment, present the consignment for checking and in some cases provide certain guarantees. The pre-notification should be sent by the Trade Control and Expert System (TRACES). A guidance note (48 KB) is available, which gives details of the importer’s responsibilities.

Guidance for inspectors

We have produced a guidance document BIP Manual (PDF 550KB) for inspectors at BIPs: the Manual covers all aspects of procedures, record keeping and the requirements for equipment and facilities at the BIP. This Manual is supplemented by OVS Notes which provide regular updates to Official Veterinary Surgeons (OVSs) on changes to procedures, import conditions and disease outbreaks.

Page last modified: 8 September, 2009
Page published: 6 September, 2006