Procedure

Procedure and deadlines: IS11, 28-day objection, appeal

From the IS11 form, through the 28-day objection, to the appeal to the court (N161) and the 60-day payment deadline. Step by step.

5 min read


The deadlines in this procedure are short and cannot be reinstated. Missing them may mean the penalty becomes final and enforceable.

Step by step

  1. 1Notice of penalty - Border Force issues the IS11 form (preceded by information letters at the port).
  2. 2Objection (notice of objection) - you have 28 days from the date the IS11 is issued to lodge an objection with Border Force together with evidence.
  3. 3Decision on the objection - Border Force may overturn, reduce or uphold the penalty.
  4. 4Appeal to the court (county court) - form N161, within 28 days of the decision on the objection (or of the IS11 date if no objection was lodged).
28 daysto object / appeal
60 dayspayment deadline from the IS11 date

Mind the deadlines

Payment is generally due within 60 days of the date of the form, but the deadline to object and appeal is only 28 days. Don't wait to respond - gather your evidence straight away.

What evidence should you prepare?

  • Records and checklists of vehicle security checks (before the port and after stops).
  • Photographs of the tarpaulin, cords, padlocks and TIR-cord numbers.
  • Tachograph / route / stops, transport documents (CMR).
  • Company procedures and proof of membership of the Accreditation Scheme (if applicable).

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to appeal?

28 days to object to Border Force, and then 28 days to appeal to the county court (form N161) from the decision on the objection.

What if I miss the 28-day deadline?

The penalty may become final and enforceable. In exceptional situations further steps are possible - seek advice as soon as you can.

Need help with a Border Force penalty?

Free consultation - objection, penalty reduction, vehicle recovery.

See also

Sources

This information is general and educational in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Correct as of July 2026. The amounts and procedures relate to the scheme following the changes of 13 February 2023. For your individual case, please contact the firm.