When Do Goods Need IPAFFS - How to Check Before Importing to the UK

One of the most common questions from importers is: how do I know whether my goods need IPAFFS at all? It's a very good question, because the answer to it determines whether the import process is prepared in advance, or starts with a nervous scramble to catch up on formalities.

Where to start

First you need to work out which group the goods belong to. GOV.UK describes which product groups are subject to IPAFFS declarations and which categories of goods fall within the system.

Which groups to watch out for

• products of animal origin,
• live animals,
• certain food and feed products,
• plants and plant products.

The most common mistake

A company assumes that because the goods are "ordinary commercial goods", they don't need an additional declaration. In reality, it's the classification and product group that determine whether IPAFFS needs to be handled.

Frequently asked questions

Does every food product need IPAFFS?
Not always. The requirement depends on the product group, the risk level, and the current British requirements for that category of product.

Is IPAFFS checked by tariff code?
The code is an important starting point, but you also need to confirm the product category and the requirements published by official British sources.

When is the best time to check the IPAFFS question?
Before booking transport and before shipping, because that's when there's still time to get certificates in order and prepare the declaration properly.

Summary

If you're not sure whether your import needs IPAFFS, it's best to check before shipping. Send us a description of the goods and we'll help you sort it out.

Official sources

• GOV.UK: IPAFFS
• GOV.UK: Import plants and plant products

If you want to check the whole import process

IPAFFS is rarely the only obligation on its own. If you'd like to see the wider context of documents and the order of steps, also see: UK-PL import - procedures and how clearance works.

Related guides

If this is part of wider preparation for an import, also see IPAFFS step by step in 2026, The IPAFFS notification and First import from the UK - 12 questions.