Import Medical Goods to UK

Importing Medical Devices and Goods from the EU to the UK

Cost-Effective Shipping Solutions for the UK and Beyond

Since the Covid-19 pandemic began, the need for medical devices, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other essential goods has surged across the UK. Businesses now rely on efficient import processes to send vital supplies from the European Union and other international sources to meet this demand, ensuring timely delivery to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

UK Medical Devices and Goods: What You Need to Import

Companies looking to import medical devices and goods from the European Union to the UK must follow specific requirements and regulations. Whether you’re planning to send medication or equipment from countries like Germany or the Netherlands, here’s what you need to know to get started and place your shipment successfully.

UK Medical Devices: Importing Goods You Need

UK Requirements for Shipping Medical Devices

To import and send medical devices and goods to the UK, businesses must comply with registration processes and regulation standards. This ensures that every item meets safety and quality expectations, whether destined for England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.

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Registration and Conformity Assessment

All UK import processes require an EORI number. If you’ve used an EU EORI previously, you’ll need a new one for the UK. For imports into England, Wales, or Scotland, your EORI must start with GB. For Northern Ireland, you can use an EU EORI or apply for one beginning with XI. This step is useful for express shipping and smooth customs clearance.

Additionally, obtaining a VAT certificate is highly recommended. Businesses without this face higher duties, making it a good idea to secure one prior to sending your shipment.

Product Safety and CE Mark Requirements

Medical devices like PPE and equipment imported into the UK must carry a CE mark (except pharmaceuticals), signifying:

The manufacturer has ensured the product meets EU health, safety, and environmental requirements.
It complies with European legislation.
It’s eligible for free movement within the European single market.

Before you send medical devices from an EU country, confirm that the manufacturer or an authorised representative has:

Conducted a conformity assessment.
Prepared the technical file.
Issued a Declaration of Conformity (DoC).
Affixed a CE mark that’s valid, at least 5mm, and placed on the item, its data plate, or accompanying information.

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SLG was recommended to me by a friend, and from the first message until I received my goods, the team at SLG’s service has been nothing short of amazing. The way they have guided and assured me throughout the process shows their many years of experience in the industry. Thank you!

Amanda

We’ve had good experiences working with SLG for our company’s regular shipments from the UK. The team at SLG have exhibited great initiative and helped handle our queries. Thank you for making our shipment process smooth!

Guoyi

I want to commend the team at SLG for their help with importing my cargo from the UK. I appreciate their support in answering my queries promptly and would recommend them to anyone needing logistics services.

Kevin

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Sending Goods to the UK: Key Import Steps

Classification Codes, Duty, and VAT for Medical Devices

Medical devices and goods can be complex to classify, falling under various tariff codes. Examples include:

3004 for packaged medications (e.g., 3004200000 for antibiotics in doses).
3003 for bulk medications (e.g., 3003200000 for bulk antibiotics).
3002 for immunological products like vaccines (e.g., 3002201000 for SARS vaccines).
90 for equipment (e.g., 9019201000 for respiration devices).
3005 for consumables (e.g., 3005100000 for adhesive plasters).

For PPE like face masks, use codes such as 6307909311. These items from the EU may qualify for zero VAT and duty, but you must submit proof of origin to ensure this useful benefit.

Customs Contact and Express Shipping

For shipments to England, Wales, or Scotland, you require a customs declaration. However, Northern Ireland imports don’t need this unless specified. Handling this yourself can be costly, so it’s useful to hire a courier, freight forwarder, or delivery service to act on your behalf.

By air: The air freight team can send declarations.
By sea: Your shipping company manages it.
By road: Logistics firms carry out the process.

This express approach saves time and ensures your medical devices and goods reach their place efficiently.

How to Import Medical Devices to the UK

To import medical devices into the UK, manufacturers and businesses must follow strict requirements. This includes obtaining an EORI number, a VAT certificate, and ensuring products bear a CE mark where required. The process varies slightly for Northern Ireland compared to England, Wales, or Scotland, so please check the specific regulation for your shipment.

Contact your service provider for information on shipping, customs, and conformity assessment. A valid declaration and technical details help ensure safety and compliance. For urgent needs, express courier services can send items quickly, whether by air, sea, or road. The UK must maintain high standards, so consider working with a professional team to carry out the process and address any issues.