Do GB importers still need CLP notification?
GB importers no longer submit CLP substance notifications: HSE says the requirement ended on 21 May 2026. Its older notification page describes the former process. Classification, labelling and packaging duties remain. Supplier documents can be gathered by Cambridge China Bridge.
The notification requirement has ended
HSE’s changes guidance says that, from 21 May 2026, GB importers no longer need to submit new or updated substance classification and labelling notifications. The older notification guidance still describes eligibility, a deadline and submission methods. Read those instructions as the former process, rather than a current filing requirement.
For a chemical purchase from China, put the current HSE changes guidance in your compliance file alongside any older notification records. Ask whoever manages your chemical compliance to review any pending notification task before spending time completing the old form.
Which imports the former process covered
The older guidance applied to GB-based importers placing chemicals on the GB market. It listed substances subject to REACH registration, hazardous substances supplied on their own, and hazardous ingredients whose presence resulted in a mixture being classified as hazardous. The notification concerned the substance and its classification.
For formulated goods, ask the factory for the ingredient identities, composition and supporting hazard information. A product name alone is a poor starting point for reviewing individual ingredients. Our cleaning products guide covers formulation and product-claim questions without repeating the notification process.
What classification information was needed
The former form requested notifier contact details and substance identity, including chemical names, identifiers, molecular or structural formula, substance type and composition. It also requested hazard classes and categories, hazard statement codes, mandatory classification status, and whether impurities or additives affected classification.
Where applicable, it requested reasons for absent classification, specific concentration limits, multiplying factors and acute toxicity estimates. Labelling information included the signal word, pictograms and their codes, hazard statements and supplementary hazard statement codes. Use this list when checking gaps in an old notification file; it is no longer a current submission checklist.
The former deadline and REACH exception
The older HSE guidance required notification within one month of placing new substances on the GB market. It also said that a valid UK REACH registration fulfilled the notification obligation, so a separate GB CLP notification was unnecessary. These explain the former notification regime; there is now no GB CLP substance notification deadline.
The former route used HSE’s online form for new notifications. Existing GB notifications were updated through a downloaded template sent by email, rather than online. Do not treat removal of this notification requirement as an answer to your separate registration question: use our UK REACH guide to review that position.
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What to prepare for an import now
HSE’s current importer guidance still requires substances and mixtures to be classified, labelled and packaged before they are placed on the market. It says classification and labelling must be carried out by someone with scientific competence. Arrange that review before approving the shipment documents and packaging artwork.
Ask the factory for the formulation, current SDS, classification basis and proposed labels. Match the documents to the exact grade and composition being ordered, and ask for advance notice of ingredient substitutions. Our chemical intermediates guide covers batch specifications and supplier checks. Cambridge China Bridge’s own staff in China can help gather the supplier documents for your reviewer.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need to submit a GB CLP notification?
No. HSE says the substance classification and labelling notification requirement was removed from 21 May 2026, including new and updated notifications.
Was the deadline one month after placing on the market?
Yes, under the former process. The older HSE page gives that deadline, but the notification requirement has since been removed.
Did UK REACH registration replace CLP notification?
Under the former process, a valid UK REACH registration fulfilled the notification obligation. The current removal of CLP notification does not settle your separate REACH registration position.
Do imported chemical mixtures still need classification?
Yes. HSE still requires importers to classify, label and package substances and mixtures before placing them on the market, using someone with scientific competence for classification and labelling.