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