Expert UK Import Customs Clearance and Equine Transport Services: Safely Relocating Horses from the US to the UK

Background

Our company was approached by a family relocating from the United States to the United Kingdom. One of their highest priorities was the safe and efficient transport of their two horses. Having faced challenges arranging reliable logistics from the European Union to the UK, the family turned to Aerona, a trusted UK customs agent and provider of professional customs clearing services, to manage the entire process from start to finish.

The Problem

International transport of live animals requires strict adherence to regulatory requirements, including veterinary checks, health certifications, and customs clearance. The family initially struggled to plan a route from the EU to the UK that complied with both EU and UK regulations. With Belgium chosen as a stopover for cost efficiency and flight availability, they needed expert guidance to ensure all paperwork, permits, and handling procedures were correctly completed. Post-Brexit changes to UK import customs clearance had added complexity, requiring additional documentation for live animals entering the UK from the EU.

Our Involvement

Acting as the family’s appointed customs agent, Aerona provided comprehensive customs clearing services for the horses’ journey, including:

• Ensuring all veterinary certifications, permits, and import paperwork for the UK were in order.
• Coordinating customs clearance for the onward journey from Belgium to the UK.
• Liaising with EU and UK authorities, animal transport specialists, and veterinary inspectors to guarantee safe stabling and transit.

We managed the entire process, from the horses’ departure in the US to their arrival in the UK, ensuring regulatory compliance at every stage.

The Solution

Our team worked closely with the family and partners in the US to ensure the horses were transported safely to Belgium, with all required health inspections completed and appropriate transport conditions maintained.

Upon arrival in Belgium, Aerona oversaw the preparation of the necessary UK import customs clearance documents, including veterinary certificates, health declarations, and permits. Through proactive communication with EU and UK authorities, we resolved potential regulatory challenges and coordinated a seamless transfer across the Channel to the UK.

Outcome

Thanks to Aerona’s careful planning and expertise, the two horses arrived in the UK safely and on schedule. All customs and veterinary paperwork were correctly filed, and the horses were transferred from Belgium to the UK without any delays or regulatory issues. The family was delighted, confident that their horses had been cared for throughout the journey.

Lessons Learned

This project highlighted the importance of in-depth knowledge of both EU and UK import customs clearance requirements for live animal transport, particularly under post-Brexit regulations. It also reinforced the value of seamless coordination between multiple stakeholders, including customs authorities, veterinary inspectors, and transport specialists.

Conclusion

This successful relocation demonstrates Aerona’s ability to manage complex international equine logistics while providing full customs clearing services. By acting as a dedicated customs agent and handling every aspect of UK import compliance, we ensured a smooth transition for the family and their horses, strengthening our reputation as a trusted partner for high-value, sensitive shipments.

For expert advice on UK import customs clearance, equine transport, or complex international shipments in the UK, call 0161 652 3443 to speak with one of our experienced customs agents.