Microsoft have now restored their services. While Defra trade services are currently available and functioning, they have not yet returned to full Business As Usual levels. We are still experiencing some legacy issues as a result of the outage, which we are actively working to resolve. We appreciate your patience as we continue to monitor and restore full performance. There is currently a workaround for CHEDs that are stuck in the 'In Progress" state. If you have a CHED and it has been stuck in the 'in progress' state, you will need to amend and resubmit the CHED, then this guidance will help as it should restart the normal application process flow.

Workaround Instructions for CHEDs Stuck "In Progress"

Step 1: Competent Authority Action

• Locate the CHED that is stuck in the "In Progress" status.
• Change the CHED status back to "Amend".

Step 2: Trader/Agent Action

• Once the CHED is in "Amend" status, the trader or agent must resubmit the CHED.

Outcome

• This process should allow the CHED to continue through the normal workflow without further issues

If you encounter any other imports-related problems, please contact the STORM Incident Hub - manned 24/7, who will liaise with NCH and competent authorities as required.

Email Stormincidentresponse@apha.gov.uk

Before contacting Storm, please ensure:

• The CHED is fully submitted and visible in IPAFFS.
• SPS checks (as applicable) are complete.
• A customs hold is visible in CDS that requires action.
• You include the MRN, and all relevant CHED references

Please note the Storm inbox is not able to assist with:

• CHEDs still in draft or amendment status
• General or policy-related questions