Policy paper

Baggage checks - Code of Practice

Find out why your baggage may be checked and what to expect if your bags are examined.

Documents

Details

This Code of Practice:

  • explains how Border Force officers and other authorised customs officials examine passenger baggage at ports and airports when the owner isn’t present
  • applies to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) officers examining baggage found in the UK
  • explains when the rules may be used
  • has guidelines to make sure officers act in a lawful, even and controlled manner
  • has guidelines on how to apply the rules, authority levels and what to do if you’re unhappy with the service you receive
  • helps HMRC and Border Force comply with human rights obligations by demonstrating even use of powers, and only when necessary, to:
    • protect the UK from smuggling
    • make sure the right amounts of duty and tax are collected at the right time

Updates to this page

Published 25 October 2017

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