Border Control Point (BCP)
A Border Control Post (BCP) is a government-approved inspection point located at the frontier, designated for carrying out checks on SPS (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) products entering a new customs territory.
When entering the EU, the BCP operates under the authority of the local competent body in that member state (for example, DAFM in the Republic of Ireland or SIVEP in France). This applies even if the goods are only transiting through that state for final clearance elsewhere. Any consignment accompanied by a CHED (Common Health Entry Document) must present at the relevant BCP for validation before being cleared for entry or onward movement.
When entering Great Britain (GB), BCPs fall under the remit of DEFRA, and the inspection rate depends on the risk level associated with the commodity. Therefore, it is essential to monitor IPAFFS and GVMS so that all parties are informed whether the load needs to be presented at a BCP for clearance.
All consignments of controlled goods must pass through a BCP that is appropriate for the type of goods being imported or transiting.