Businesses moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland should begin preparing for significant changes to the Trader Support Service (TSS), with a new digital platform scheduled to launch in October 2026.
While the customs requirements under the Windsor Framework remain unchanged, the next phase of the Trader Support Service will introduce a redesigned digital platform, enhanced user journeys and improved accessibility features designed to make customs processes more efficient.
For businesses relying on TSS to manage customs declarations between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, understanding the transition timeline and preparing early will help minimise disruption.
What Is the Trader Support Service?
The Trader Support Service (TSS) is a UK Government-funded digital service that supports businesses moving goods from Great Britain into Northern Ireland.
Originally introduced following Brexit to support the operation of the Northern Ireland Protocol, the service now helps businesses comply with the customs requirements of the Windsor Framework.
The service enables traders to:
- Submit customs declarations.
- Complete Safety and Security declarations where required.
- Access customs guidance and support.
- Simplify movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
- Navigate complex customs requirements with greater confidence.
Since its launch, more than 47,000 traders have registered with the Trader Support Service, making it one of the UK’s most widely used customs support services for Northern Ireland trade.
What Is Changing in 2026?
Development of the next-generation Trader Support Service is already underway, with the new platform designed to modernise the user experience while maintaining the same customs requirements.
Key Dates
9 July 2026
Private Beta testing begins.
20 October 2026
The new Trader Support Service platform goes live.
30 November 2026
The existing platform will be retired. Users will no longer be able to access the legacy system to manage outstanding movements.
Businesses should ensure any outstanding declarations or movements have been completed or managed before the legacy platform closes.
What’s New in the Updated TSS Platform?
The latest version of TSS has been developed using feedback from businesses and customs users, with a focus on improving usability and efficiency.
Improved Portal Design
A more intuitive and modern interface will simplify navigation and reduce the time required to complete customs processes.
Enhanced Accessibility
Improved accessibility features will provide a better experience across different devices and for users with varying accessibility requirements.
Better User Journeys
Simplified navigation has been designed to make customs declarations easier to complete while reducing unnecessary complexity.
New Features Based on Customer Feedback
Additional functionality has been introduced based on feedback gathered from businesses already using the service.
Continued API Development
Businesses using API integrations are already being supported through the transition to ensure minimal disruption when the new platform launches.
Will Customs Procedures Change?
Importantly, these changes relate primarily to the Trader Support Service platform itself.
The transition does not introduce new customs rules or alter the legal requirements established under the Windsor Framework.
Businesses will still need to comply with:
- Customs declarations.
- Safety and Security requirements.
- Commodity code classification.
- UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) requirements where applicable.
- Internal Market Movement or Red Lane procedures under the Windsor Framework.
The underlying customs processes remain the same, but businesses should familiarise themselves with the new interface before October 2026.
Why Businesses Should Prepare Early
Although the transition is expected to be straightforward, leaving preparations until the final weeks could create unnecessary disruption.
Businesses should:
- Review current Trader Support Service processes.
- Ensure staff understand the new platform.
- Complete or manage outstanding movements before 30 November 2026.
- Review API integrations where applicable.
- Seek specialist customs advice if unsure about their obligations.
As international trade continues to evolve, digital customs systems are becoming increasingly important for maintaining efficient and compliant supply chains.
How Does the Trader Support Service Support the Windsor Framework?
The Trader Support Service remains a key part of the UK’s customs arrangements for goods moving between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
By simplifying customs declarations and providing guidance and support, TSS helps businesses comply with the Windsor Framework while supporting the movement of goods under Northern Ireland’s unique dual-market access arrangements.
Understanding how TSS interacts with the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS), Customs Declaration Service (CDS), Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) and wider Windsor Framework processes is essential for businesses wishing to avoid delays and remain compliant.
How Allied Group Can Help
At Allied Group, we support businesses across the UK and Northern Ireland with:
- Customs declarations and compliance.
- Trader Support Service support.
- Windsor Framework guidance.
- UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) applications.
- Commodity code classification.
- Customs training and advisory services.
- Supply chain optimisation.
As customs procedures and digital systems continue to evolve, businesses need more than compliance – they need confidence.
Need Support with the Trader Support Service?
Whether you’re preparing for the new Trader Support Service platform, reviewing your customs procedures or navigating the Windsor Framework, Allied Group’s customs specialists are here to help.
Contact our team today to ensure your business is ready for the next phase of the Trader Support Service and future-proof your supply chain.
