ODS exports rejected at an EU border control post
What to do if your ozone-depleting substances (ODS) exports are rejected at an EU border control post (BCP).
If your ODS exports are rejected at an EU BCP, they will be returned to Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales). Border Force will then stop and hold your ODS at the border.
To re-enter Great Britain, the ODS will need to regain free circulation status.
Regaining free circulation status
To regain free circulation status, the ODS must comply with clearance processes. This means you must:
- have a full customs declaration
- register for an account on the ODS service
- have enough ODS quota at the time of re-entry
- have a valid ODS import licence at the time of re-entry (use the apply for ozone-depleting substances (ODS) import and export licence service)
The National Clearance Hub (NCH) and the Environment Agency will check and decide how to deal with your ODS. If you have any questions, contact f-gassupport@environment-agency.gov.uk.
If your ODS meets clearance processes, you can place it on the market in Great Britain.
You may need to destroy the ODS if it is banned or does not comply with clearance process.
Check the list of licensed waste facilities that accept waste ODS.
Updates to this page
Last updated 18 January 2024 + show all updates
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Added a support email address and a link to licensed waste facilities that can accept rejected ODS.
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Provided additional guidance on when you need to get rejected ODS to comply with clearance processes. Clarified the process of getting returned ODS checked. Removed irrelevant information on the Environment Agency managing the ODS system. Rearranged content for better information flow.
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First published.