Port Passes (also known as pre-lodgement systems such as GMR, PBN and logistics envelopes - ELO) are one of the procedures hauliers must complete for GB and EU imports/exports.
Port Passes Do Two Things
- Make sure ALL of the customs processes have been completed PRIOR to a vehicle arriving at the port
- Acts as a trigger to update some of the customs procedures, such as the office of Transit, which lets customs authorities know the goods have left one customs territory and have entered another
Different Country, Different Port Pass
Each, different jurisdiction has a port pass system to contend with -
- GB - GVMS (GMR)
- FRANCE - SI Brexit system (logistics envelope/ELO)
- NORTHERN IRELAND - GVMS (GMR)
- REPUBLIC OF IRELAND - Revenue system (PBN)
- NETHERLANDS - Portbase system
- SPAIN - Teleport II* system
* Unlike other jurisdictions, on RoRo GB-ES routes, Spain has opted for a temporary storage model, where goods and vehicles can arrive at port prior to import/export declarations being completed.
How do Port Passes Work?
When a haulier collects a consignment, they need to collect two pieces of information -
- The export MRN
- The import MRN or the Transit MRN
Along with any required Safety & Security ENS/EXS Declaration, all the separate export and import / transit MRN numbers are then entered into the GB and EU port pass systems. If the declarations have been submitted correctly, the entry will be accepted and validated - up to 99 consignments per entry.
When accepted, a single reference will be produced. For example, from the GVMS system (GB) - GMR and the Revenue system - PBN (Republic of Ireland). If any of the MRN numbers are invalid, the entry will be rejected and the haulier will need to contact the customer.
These reference numbers are then passed onto the ferry company to complete one last check to make sure the declarations have been completely correctly.
Depending on the jurisdiction you are entering, the disembarkation procedure will differ slightly to instruct you if customs want to check your load/paperwork or check any licences etc you may have.
