Certificates for import: health, phytosanitary, and veterinary
If your cargo includes sensitive products such as food, plants, animals, or products of animal origin, you need to obtain the appropriate certificates for customs to authorise their entry into the European Union territory. These official documents guarantee that your goods comply with the health and safety standards of the destination country and do not endanger public health.
What are they and what are they for?
These certificates are issued by the competent authorities of the country of origin and act as a health passport for the goods transported. Without them, your cargo will be detained at the border, inspected, and could even be seized and destroyed.
Health Certificate
For products for human consumption (food, beverages) and materials that come into contact with them.
Phytosanitary Certificate
For plants, plant products (fruits, vegetables, wood), and other materials that may contain pests.
Veterinary Certificate
For live animals, products of animal origin (meat, dairy, eggs), and by-products.
Why are they so important?
As we mentioned, guaranteeing public health is one of the EU authorities' top priorities. Therefore, these types of certificates are important for:
Safety Guarantee
They certify that your product does not pose a risk to public health, animal or plant health in the destination country.
Legal Compliance
They are mandatory for customs clearance. Not having them is grounds for detention, fines, and rejection of the cargo.
Market Access
They are the key for your goods to be legally marketed in the destination country.
How and where are they obtained?
These certificates are issued by governmental authorities in the country of origin:
In the UK, DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) is a key issuing body, along with other relevant ministries.
They may also be issued by official laboratories or authorised entities.
Remember: Certificates must comply with the specific format and requirements of the destination country. A certificate with an incorrect format or incomplete information may be rejected.
Practical examples
Exporting olive oil to the USA
You will need a health certificate guaranteeing that the product is fit for consumption and complies with FDA standards.
Importing timber from Brazil
You will need a phytosanitary certificate to prove that the timber has been treated against pests, according to international regulations (ISPM 15).
Importing meat from Argentina
A veterinary certificate will be required, certifying that the meat comes from healthy animals and that the processing plant complies with health standards.
Related documentation
Bill of Lading (B/L): the master document of your cargo
Maritime transport contract between shipper and shipping line.
House Bill of Lading (HBL)
Document issued by the freight forwarder for each individual client.
Commercial Invoice and Packing List
Details of the commercial transaction and package contents.
Cargo Manifest
Official list of all cargo aboard the vessel.
Certificate of Origin (COO)
Certifies the country of manufacture of exported goods.
Marine Insurance Policy
Covers risks of loss or damage during maritime transport.
Charter Party
Contract between ship owner and charterer for vessel use.