Importing Horses into the UK – Specialist Customs Clearance
Importing Horses into the UK requires careful planning, regulatory knowledge and precise documentation. Since Brexit, the movement of horses between the UK and the EU has become significantly more complex.
Aerona Customs Clearing provides specialist support for owners, trainers, transporters and equine agents. Our team manages customs declarations, veterinary compliance and border procedures to ensure horses move safely and legally across international borders.
As a result, horses clear customs smoothly and unnecessary delays are avoided.
Why Importing Horses into the UK Requires Specialist Expertise
Moving horses internationally involves far more than standard freight shipping.
Strict animal health legislation applies, including veterinary inspections, vaccination verification and border control procedures.
Aerona coordinates all required processes, including:
- Export Health Certificates (EHC)
- Official veterinary inspections
- Vaccination compliance checks
- Isolation and residency requirements
- IPAFFS notifications for Port Health
- Border Control Post (BCP) pre-notifications
- Customs import declarations
Therefore, every stage of importing horses into the UK meets UK and EU regulatory requirements.
Post-Brexit Rules for Importing Horses into the UK
Since Brexit, horses moving between the UK and EU are treated as third-country movements. This means additional checks now apply.
These include:
- Mandatory customs declarations
- Export health certification
- Border Control Post inspections
- Veterinary documentary checks
- Advance notification through IPAFFS
Because of these changes, many horse owners and transporters now rely on customs specialists to manage compliance and avoid delays.
Aerona monitors regulatory updates from DEFRA, APHA and Border Force. Consequently, clients benefit from accurate and up-to-date guidance.
Our Process for Importing Horses into the UK
Aerona manages the process from preparation to final clearance.
Step 1 – Pre-Movement Planning
We review documentation, travel routes and veterinary requirements.
Step 2 – Veterinary Preparation
Official veterinarians verify vaccination status, residency and health.
Step 3 – Export Health Certification
The Export Health Certificate confirms the horse meets UK entry requirements.
Step 4 – IPAFFS and Border Notification
Aerona submits IPAFFS notifications and coordinates the Border Control Post inspection.
Step 5 – Customs Clearance
Import declarations are submitted and verified before arrival.
Step 6 – Border Inspection
Authorities complete documentary, identity and physical checks.
Step 7 – Release and Transport
Once cleared, the horse can continue its journey safely.
Why Choose Aerona for Importing Horses into the UK
Aerona provides specialist equine customs expertise.
Our clients benefit from:
✔ Experience handling live animal shipments
✔ Strong knowledge of equine veterinary regulations
✔ Accurate customs documentation
✔ Coordination with vets, hauliers and border authorities
✔ Reduced risk of border delays
Whether transporting competition horses, breeding stock or leisure horses, Aerona ensures the process is compliant and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions – Importing Horses into the UK
What documents are required for importing horses into the UK?
Typical documents include an Export Health Certificate, horse passport, vaccination records and customs import declaration.
Do horses need veterinary checks when entering the UK?
Yes. Horses must undergo veterinary inspections and health certification before travel.
What is an Export Health Certificate for horses?
An Export Health Certificate confirms the horse meets animal health requirements for international movement.
What is IPAFFS and why is it required?
IPAFFS is the UK government system used to notify authorities about incoming animal consignments.
What happens at a Border Control Post (BCP)?
Authorities perform documentary, identity and sometimes physical veterinary inspections.
How long does it take to import a horse into the UK?
Preparation usually takes several days. However, documentation must be completed before travel.
Can delays occur when importing horses?
Yes. Delays often occur if documentation is incomplete or veterinary requirements are incorrect.
Do horses require vaccinations before entering the UK?
Yes. Vaccination records must meet UK animal health regulations.
Can competition horses move between the UK and EU easily?
Movements are possible but require full veterinary and customs compliance.
Should I use a customs specialist when importing horses?
Yes. Equine movements involve complex regulations. Specialists reduce risk and avoid costly delays.
Speak to an Equine Customs Specialist
Planning on importing horses into the UK?
Aerona Customs Clearing provides professional support for horse owners, trainers, transporters and equine agents.
Our specialists ensure every regulatory requirement is met so your horse moves safely, legally and without unnecessary delay.
📞 Contact Aerona today for expert guidance on equine imports and exports.