Windsor Framework and UKIMS: What Businesses Must Know Post-1 May 2025 

Recap: What Is the Windsor Framework? 

The Windsor Framework is a UK-EU agreement introduced in 2023, replacing key elements of the Northern Ireland Protocol. Its purpose is to manage how goods move from GB to NI in a way that: 

• Reduces trade friction within the UK
• Preserves Northern Ireland’s access to the UK internal market
• Maintains the EU’s regulatory controls at the border with the Republic of Ireland

This is achieved through a dual-lane system for goods, depending on their end destination and the compliance status of the trader. 

How the Two-Lane System Works 

Green Lane: For UKIMS-Authorised Goods Staying in Northern Ireland 

Businesses that are registered under the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) can move goods through the green lane. These goods are intended to remain in Northern Ireland and are not considered a risk to the EU market. 

What’s Required: 

• Active UKIMS registration
• Declaration that goods are not at risk of entering the EU
• Provision of the Internal Market Movement Information (IMMI) to hauliers
• The Movement Reference Number (MRN) must be included in the Goods Movement Reference (GMR) at the port

Green lane goods benefit from reduced checks and simplified customs procedures, but only if all documentation is accurate and complete. 

Red Lane: For Goods Without UKIMS or Destined for the EU 

Goods that are either: 

• Not moved under a UKIMS authorisation
• Intended for the EU market (including transiting through Ireland)

must be routed through the red lane, triggering full customs checks. 

What’s Required: 

• Full customs declarations

• Compliance with Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) regulations where applicable

• Payment of EU tariffs, unless exemptions are claimed

• All relevant documentation at the point of entry

What’s Changed from 1 May 2025? 

From 1 May 2025 onwards, the Windsor Framework is fully operational, and enforcement is in effect. 

For Businesses Using UKIMS: 

• Goods must be clearly identified as not at risk of entering the EU 

• You must have a valid UKIMS authorisation in place 

• Your haulier must be provided with the IMMI and MRN for inclusion in the GMR 

• Simplified entry processes now apply, provided all criteria are met 

For Businesses Not Using UKIMS: 

• All goods are automatically treated as at risk 

• Full customs declarations are now mandatory 

• EU tariffs may apply 

• You must meet all customs, Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS), and documentary obligations for cross-border shipments 

If these steps have not yet been taken, goods may already be experiencing disruption at ports or checkpoints. 

Documentation Essentials Post-Deadline 

Accurate documentation is now non-negotiable. The following must be in place for all shipments from GB to NI: 

• EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification)

• Incoterms to define delivery responsibilities

• UKIMS authorisation, if using the green lane

• IMMI and MRN for inclusion in the GMR (green lane only) 

• Commercial documentation: invoices, packing lists, and relevant permits 

Errors or omissions may result in customs delays, penalties, or refusal of entry at the border. 

What This Means for Businesses Now 

The new processes are in force, and enforcement is active. Goods moving without the correct authorisations, declarations, or paperwork are now subject to hold-ups, inspections, and in some cases, return to sender. 

If your business has not yet adjusted to the new requirements, or if you’re unsure whether your current arrangements are compliant, immediate corrective action is necessary. 

How Speedy Freight Can Support Your Windsor Framework Compliance 

Speedy Freight is helping businesses across the UK adapt to the Windsor Framework changes now in effect. Whether you’re using the green or red lane, our team is available to review your setup and provide immediate assistance to ensure goods keep moving. 

We provide: 

• UKIMS registration support and guidance on eligibility

• Full customs documentation management

• Verification and transmission of IMMI and MRNs for GMRs 

• Direct coordination with hauliers and customs agents

• Practical advice tailored to your sector and shipment type

If you’re experiencing delays due to compliance gaps or documentation errors, our team can step in to resolve issues quickly and minimise disruption.

Speedy Freight’s International Logistics Services 

Beyond Northern Ireland movements, Speedy Freight offers a full suite of international logistics services to support your business across borders: 

• Customs clearance for imports and exports to and from all major regions

• Air freight solutions for urgent or high-value cargo

• End-to-end EU road transport, including next day and timed deliveries

• Expert support with export declarations, licences, and controlled goods

• Assistance with ongoing UK-EU, global, and third-country trade

We work across all sectors, from retail and manufacturing to pharmaceuticals and food logistics, helping businesses remain compliant and competitive in fast-moving regulatory environments. 

Get in Touch with Speedy Freight 

The Windsor Framework is no longer on the horizon, it's now the standard for moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Businesses that are not yet compliant face delays, fines, and the risk of reputational damage. 

Whether you need emergency documentation support, long-term customs solutions, or a reliable logistics partner for international freight, we're ready to step in. 

Get in touch today to secure your post-1 May operations and ensure your goods move without interruption and download our guide for more information.