UK Internal Market Scheme

The UK Internal Market Scheme allows authorised UK businesses to declare goods they are bringing into Northern Ireland ‘not at risk’ of moving to the EU. Declaring goods ‘not at risk’ allows traders to access the simplified processes for moving goods from Great Britian (England, Scotland, and Wales) into Northern Ireland that were introduced by the Windsor Framework.

The simplified processes mean goods moving from Great Britain will:

• not be subject to the same processes that apply to other goods entering Northern Ireland
• only need to submit Internal Market Movement Information which removes the requirement for a full customs declaration. 

Guidance on Internal Market Movements is available at Internal Market Movements from Great Britain to Northern Ireland

HMRC has responsibility for introducing and agreeing these processes. They have published guidance on how to apply for authorisation for the UK Internal Market Scheme for bringing goods into Northern Ireland at Apply for authorisation for the UK Internal Market Scheme if you bring goods into Northern Ireland

This guidance includes information on:

• Who can apply
• Compliance requirements
• Records, systems, controls, and evidence requirements
• Additional requirements for processing
• What you will need
• How to apply
• What happens after you apply

If more information or support is required, the Trader Support Service (TSS) is the UK funded service that helps UK businesses move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.  The TSS Contact Centre can be reached by phone at 0800 060 8888 or online at Trader Support Service.

The service is free to use and offers training and guidance, through their Northern Ireland Customs and Trade Academy, to help businesses understand the Windsor Framework, how to move goods under it, and how to use the TSS.  It can help traders to complete customs and safety and security declarations, where these are required for movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Details about the Northern Ireland Customs and Trade Academy can be found at The Northern Ireland Customs & Trade Academy (NICTA)

The NI Business Info website provided by Invest NI can also provide support. This is the official online channel for business advice and guidance in Northern Ireland. It contains essential information, support, and services. NI Business Info also has a number of useful online tools, calculators, and best practice case studies; and provides access to funding options, as well as wider support. The website can be found at nibusinessinfo