New travel authorisation to the UK – Any consequences for On Board Courier shipments?
A new entry requirement for European travellers
- The United Kingdom has implemented a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for European nationals entering the country, including French citizens. This measure has been in effect since April 2nd.
- The ETA is an online formality that must be completed prior to entering the UK. It is easy to obtain, valid for two years, and allows multiple entries. The process is quick and handled via an official government mobile website or app. Required: a valid passport, some personal details, and a payment of £10 (as of 03.04.2025).
No impact on our urgent deliveries to the UK
- At Air Time Critical®, we anticipated this regulatory change well in advance. Our On Board Couriers (OBC) are already prepared and equipped with the necessary authorisation or procedures. This ensures the continuity of our hand-carry services to the UK without interruption.
- Whether you need to deliver a prototype, critical production parts, pre-series, or any other urgent shipment, our OBC solutions remain fully operational and fast. The ETA does not pose an obstacle to the organisation of escorted hand-carry deliveries by ATC®.
Customs clearance in the UK – a reminder of the rules
Customs remains a key element in any express international delivery, including for OBC services. Here’s what you need to know for shipments to the UK:
- Self-clearance (performed directly by the courier) is sometimes possible for low-value personal items, but not guaranteed for commercial goods.
- For more reliability, we arrange import clearance via our local customs brokers.
- Required documents: commercial invoice, packing list, and if importing, a Power of Attorney (POA) signed by the consignee.
- Duties and VAT can be invoiced directly to the consignee, or handled by Air Time Critical® and recharged along with transport fees.
Conclusion – Your OBC shipments are safe with ATC®
- The introduction of the ETA by the UK does not impact our ability to organise fast and effective OBC deliveries. Our teams are trained, ready, and fully aligned with the new entry requirements. Thanks to our network of experienced couriers and customs partners in the UK, we continue to ensure door-to-door delivery of your critical shipments.
- For any urgent delivery to the UK, contact us – we’ll propose a tailored, compliant, and time-critical solution.
ATC® is reachable:
- Via our quick quote form
- By phone: EN/FR +32 2 888 84 16 / FR +33 1 78 90 26 52