HMRC outlines transition plan for Sevington and Holyhead Inland Border Facilities

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has announced plans to wind down operations at the Sevington and Holyhead Inland Border Facilities (IBFs), with customs functions transitioning to port operators from early 2027.

The temporary government-funded sites were introduced post-Brexit to handle customs processes while border locations built out their capacity. HMRC is now moving back to the standard UK border model, where infrastructure is provided directly by port authorities.

What is changing?

• Sevington IBF: Customs checks and transit movement facilities will move to alternative locations operated by the Port of Dover and Getlink (Eurotunnel) from early 2027. The Sevington Border Control Post, which handles Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) checks, will remain fully operational.
• Holyhead IBF: Customs processes are planned to move directly into infrastructure within Holyhead Port. Detailed timetables are currently being finalised.
• Transit Processes: From early 2027, traders will no longer be able to start or end transit movements at Sevington. Instead, businesses will need to utilise port facilities, work with commercial Authorised Consignors/Consignees, or make use of transit simplifications at their own sites.

Call for Member Feedback
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) is gathering feedback from members to inform HMRC's ongoing transition plans. HMRC is particularly keen to hear from businesses holding Authorised Consignor/Consignee status, as well as operators relying on inland facilities for transit movements.

RHA members are encouraged to submit initial feedback on how these changes will impact their operations directly to [email protected].

There are no immediate changes to existing customs processes, and traders should continue using Sevington and Holyhead IBFs as normal until further notice.