These communications are for NCTS5 users (traders, agents, declarants, etc.) and providers of third-party commercial software packages. You can find the most recent updates on GOV.UK.



Background – Unloading remarks and British Summertime (BST)

Following the introduction of NCTS5 in June 2024, HMRC became aware of a problem affecting NCTS users when entering unloading remarks for goods arrived between the hours of 00:01 and 01:00 during BST.

This problem is caused by NCTS’ alignment with Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), which is one hour behind BST. This means that any unloading remarks completed between 00:01 and 01:00 during BST are blocked, as the NCTS service considers them to be made in the future.

What is HMRC doing?

HMRC is exploring a permanent fix for the issue. HMRC will provide an update when they know when the fix will be implemented.

What you need to do

To avoid blocking unloading remarks, traders/declarants must carry out the workaround below during BST.

Workaround

Applicable from 31 March 2025 until 26 October 2025; or HMRC notifies you that the fix has been made; declarants should enter the previous day’s date when submitting unloading remarks for any goods received in the UK between 00:01 and 01:00 hours.

For example:

• Goods are physically unloaded at the Consignee premises on 7 April 2025 between the hours of 00:01 and 01:00
• The unloading date should be entered as April 6 (the time is not required in this data field, only the date).

Note: If you use third-party software, please speak to your provider, as they may include functionality within their product that already allows for this workaround.

Further information: Please look out for HMRC’s next communications in Spring 2025, which will discuss NCTS6.