Customs in the Lifescience & Healthcare Industry

Unlock Seamless Customs Clearance for the Lifescience & Healthcare Industry

Customs Solutions for the Lifescience & Healthcare Industry

Reliable, compliant, and time-critical customs support for medical and pharmaceutical supply chains.

In lifesciences and healthcare, customs delays aren’t just inconvenient—they can compromise patient safety, disrupt clinical trials, or stall critical medical deliveries. From importing temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals to exporting medical devices and diagnostic equipment, customs compliance must be fast, flawless, and fully traceable.

At ALS Customs Services, we provide end-to-end customs solutions tailored to the unique demands of lifesciences and healthcare logistics. Our specialists help you avoid delays, navigate complex regulatory landscapes, and maintain supply chain integrity across borders.

Ensure compliance, protect product integrity, and deliver life-saving goods on time—with ALS.

Talk to our experts today!

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Key Customs Challenges for Lifescience & Healthcare Businesses

Strict product classification rules

Medical goods must meet specific HS codes tied to regulatory definitions.
Misclassification risks fines, delays, or denied entry.
Reclassification of combination products creates added complexity.

Time-critical shipments

Delays in customs clearance can disrupt patient treatment schedules.
Emergency imports or clinical trial materials need rapid release.
Cold chain breakdowns can result in total product loss.

Regulatory documentation

Import/export of medicines and medical devices requires specific certificates.
Missing or outdated documents trigger shipment holds.
Regulatory approvals (e.g. CE, UKCA) must be validated at customs.

Controlled substances and biologics

Requires special licences or authorisations to cross borders.
Dual-use medical compounds fall under export control.
Regulatory scrutiny is high for narcotics, hormones, and blood products.

Packaging, labelling & traceability

Customs authorities require clear origin, lot numbers, and expiry data.
Incorrect UDI or batch traceability info can delay clearance.
Regulatory audits often start at customs.

The impact? Missed deliveries, compliance violations, and compromised patient outcomes.

Why Lifescience Leaders Trust ALS

How ALS helps Lifescience & Healthcare Businesses

Industry-specific expertise

We understand the compliance risks tied to pharmaceuticals and medical goods.

Cold chain & time-sensitive support

Customs processes aligned with temperature-controlled logistics.

Automated documentation checks

Ensure accuracy and speed when it matters most.

EU and UK-wide presence

Support at critical healthcare logistics hubs across Europe.

ALS helps healthcare companies clear shipments faster, maintain compliance, and protect product integrity from port to patient.

Latest Customs Updates in the Lifescience & Healthcare Industry

EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR)

Establishes the regulatory framework for medical devices within the EU.

MDR Guidance Documents

EU Good Distribution Practice Guidelines

Outlines standards for the proper distribution of medicinal products for human use.

GDP Guidelines

UK MHRA Import Guidance

Provides information on importing human medicines into the UK, including licensing requirements.

Importing Human Medicine

Controlled Drugs Regulations (UK)

Details the regulations for the import and export of controlled drugs in the UK.

Controlled Drugs: Import & Export

EU Customs Code – Pharmaceuticals & Biologics

Offers classification and regulatory information for pharmaceuticals and biologics within the EU customs framework.

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

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