Customs in the Food Industry

Unlock Seamless Customs Clearance for the Food Industry

Customs Solutions for the Food Industry

Fast, compliant, and temperature-sensitive customs support for perishable goods.

In the food industry, customs delays can mean spoiled goods, missed shelf dates, and damaged supplier relationships. Whether you're importing raw ingredients, exporting finished products, or managing temperature-controlled shipments, your customs processes must be fast, accurate, and fully aligned with food safety and origin regulations.

At ALS Customs Services, we deliver end-to-end customs solutions for producers, distributors, retailers, and cold chain specialists. Our experts help you move goods across borders efficiently while ensuring compliance with EU and UK food import controls.

Clear customs faster, stay compliant, and protect product quality with ALS.

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Key Customs Challenges for Food Businesses

  • Delays at customs can spoil fresh or frozen goods.
  • Temperature fluctuations may compromise safety and quality.
  • Clearance speed is critical for shelf-life and delivery windows.
  • Minor ingredient differences can change the product’s duty rate.
  • Incorrect HS codes lead to overpayment or shipment holds.
  • Composite foods and alcohol require specialist classification knowledge.
  • Health certificates and vet checks required for many food types.
  • Missing documentation results in inspection, delay, or destruction.
  • Country-of-origin rules apply to meat, dairy, and plant-based items.
  • Imports must comply with EU/UK food labelling laws.
  • Incorrect or missing origin, ingredients, or allergens are customs red flags.
  • Traceability requirements can trigger customs or regulatory checks.
  • Certain products require prior notification via TRACES or IPAFFS.
  • Failure to register shipments on time may block entry.
  • Dual regulatory systems post-Brexit increase complexity.

The impact? Product loss, missed delivery windows, and damaged brand trust.

Why Food & Beverage Brands Trust ALS

How ALS helps Food Businesses

Sector-specific expertise

We know how customs decisions affect shelf life and safety.

Speed & compliance balance

Fast clearance without compromising food regulations.

SPS and pre-notification support

Help with TRACES, IPAFFS, and health certs at every step.

Pan-European coverage

Border support across major EU/UK food logistics hubs.

From fresh produce to fine wine, ALS helps you move food products across borders—safely and efficiently.

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Latest Customs Updates in the Food Industry

EU General Food Law (Reg. 178/2002)

Framework for EU food safety, traceability, and regulatory compliance.

Read the regulation
TRACES – EU SPS Notification System

Pre-notification platform for animal, plant, and food product imports.

Access TRACES
UK IPAFFS Import System

UK system for notifying imports of food, feed, and animal-origin products.

Learn about IPAFFS
EU Tariff Classification Database (TARIC)

Classifies food goods for customs, tariffs, and regulatory checks.

View TARIC
EU Food Labelling Guidelines

Rules for ingredient, allergen, and origin labelling on packaged food.

Explore Labelling Rules

Find an ALS Office Near You

Explore our network of customs experts and logistics hubs in 50+ offices in over 17 countries.

At ALS, we combine global customs expertise with local insight—helping businesses move goods efficiently, stay compliant, and navigate changing regulations with confidence. Whether you're expanding into new markets or aligning with growing sustainability requirements, our teams deliver tailored support at every stage of the supply chain.

With over 50 offices across 17+ countries, we’re right where you need us—on the ground, in the know, and ready to help.

Find your nearest ALS office or Get in touch with our experts

At ALS, your customs path starts hereAt ALS, your customs path starts here

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