Export controls and certification

Port Health at Immingham and Grimsby plays a key role in supporting UK businesses with the export of foodstuffs and regulated goods, ensuring compliance with international health and safety standards. Export controls are enforced to protect public health, meet destination country requirements, and uphold trade agreements. For many non-EU destinations, exporters must obtain an Export Health Certificate (EHC), which confirms that the goods meet the necessary hygiene and safety standards. These certificates are issued through the ECHO system—DEFRA’s online platform for managing export health certification.

To use ECHO, exporters must register, select the appropriate certificate template based on the destination and commodity, and submit detailed product information including origin, processing details, and batch numbers. Port Health Officers may need to inspect the goods and verify documentation before issuing the certificate. Charges apply for certificate issuance, amendments, and out-of-hours services, with standard fees starting at £150 plus VAT for a new certificate and £75 plus VAT for amendments

Exporters are advised to contact Port Health well in advance of dispatch to allow time for document review and any necessary sampling. Goods must be physically located within the Port Health Authority’s jurisdiction at the time of certification. The style, wording, and language of certificates vary by country, so coordination with the importer or embassy is recommended to ensure compliance. In addition to EHCs, Port Health may also issue organic certification, non-manipulation certificates, and ship sanitation documentation depending on the nature of the export. The ECHO system streamlines the certification process, helping exporters meet global standards while maintaining traceability and public health safeguards

Documents required for exports

Export Health Certificate (EHC) Application Submitted through the Export Health Certificate Online (ECHO) system. Exporters must register with a Government Gateway and DEFRA account to access the platform

1. Supporting Attestation (if applicable) Required when the goods are consolidated at a different location or when the certifying officer is not based at the site of manufacture. This attestation confirms product details and may be issued by the local authority (e.g., NELC)
2. Packing List Details of the products being exported, including quantities, batch numbers, and packaging types.
3. Photographs of Labels Used to verify product identity and ensure consistency with the EHC details.
4. Commercial Invoice Includes product descriptions, values, and destination details.
5. Transport Details Including vehicle registration, seal numbers (if applicable), and expected date/time of loading.
6. CHED-P (if previously imported) For goods originally imported from non-EU countries and not further processed, a copy of the CHED-P showing clearance at a UK Border Control Post can serve as assurance

Product Origin and Processing Information required to confirm compliance with destination country standards.