From the end of June 2025, businesses trading licensed goods into or out of Northern Ireland will face a significant change in customs verification processes. HMRC is replacing the current Automatic Licence Verification System (ALVS) with a new platform called CERTEX. This update will impact organisations dealing with specific controlled goods, and while the change is procedural, it’s crucial to understand what’s required to avoid delays or disruptions at the border.
CERTEX: everything you need to know
This change, implemented from 28th June 2025, introduces a key procedural update for businesses trading in licensed goods such as plants and plant products, certain food and feed items, live animals and fluorinated gases.
Under CERTEX, the data provided on your declaration must exactly match the information on the relevant licence or certificate. Any inconsistencies, however minor, could trigger a notification from the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). This may lead to delays in goods movements, inspections, or the temporary holding of goods at the border.
To avoid disruption, persons affected should now:
Review the new format for entering licence information, as this may differ from the previous process
Ensure data accuracy and consistency between declarations and the actual licence or certificate for the goods being moved into or out of Northern Ireland
Engage with the Trader Support Service (TSS) if you are using TSS for your licensed goods movements, as they may be able to assist in resolving any issues or delays quickly.
For movements covered by the UK Internal Market Scheme, eligible licensed goods can continue to be moved under the Internal Market Movements process, which remains unaffected by this change.
This update is a timely reminder of the importance of robust customs processes when dealing with licensable goods. Businesses moving such goods in or out of Northern Ireland from 28th June onwards should review their current procedures to ensure they are ready for the transition to CERTEX.
The next step
If your business is involved in the movement of licensed goods into or out of Northern Ireland, now is the time to prepare. Reviewing your current customs procedures, updating internal training and ensuring systems are ready for CERTEX will help you stay compliant and avoid costly delays.
For tailored guidance and support, please contact Lisa Burnside, VAT director at UHY, or speak with your usual UHY VAT adviser. We’re here to help you navigate the change with confidence.
