Brexit: New Regulations for UK Hauliers
At present, the UK has left the EU meaning we are currently in the transition period. This time should be used to prepare for next year as from 1 January 2021, UK hauliers will need correct documentation to make customs declaration and to travel to, from and through the EU after Brexit.
Both imports and exports will be conducted in-line with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules.
Register for an EORI Number
Businesses are able to continue importing and exporting goods to and from the EU, but it is fundamental that they have an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number. Businesses need to register for a new one because current UK EORI numbers in place with not be accepted in 2021. It takes about five to ten minutes to apply which you can do so here.
Importing Goods from the EU to Great Britain
Next year, there will be 4 main options for importing goods from the EU into Great Britain:
- Deferred Declarations
- Standard Import Procedures
- Simplified Declaration
- Transit
Deferred Declarations
This procedure refers to the importation of non-controlled, standard goods. It will give businesses the ability to keep records of the goods being imported and delay submitting a full customs declaration, plus paying custom duties, for up to 6 months after.
Standard Import Procedures
As self-explanatory as it seems, this refers to importing all goods through standard import procedures. So, businesses need to check if any goods need an import licence or certificate, plus for additional documentation and processes for controlled goods.
Simplified Declaration
This procedure can be used for both standard goods and some controlled goods, however, you need to be authorised to use this process. Again, businesses need to check if any goods need an import licence or certificate, plus for additional documentation and processes for controlled goods.
Transit
If businesses wish to move goods through multiple territories or to complete custom formalities away from the border, they should use transit. Whilst also needing to be aware of additional documentation and processes similar to the previous options, businesses need to consider the custom processes they will need to use once goods have been discharged from a transit movement.
More information about all of these options, plus specific material for each can be found on the Government website.
Exporting Goods from Great Britain to the EU
Every shipment will need to complete a commercial invoice in accordance with WTO rules. These invoices need to include information for customs authorities, plus other required associated paperwork. Also, businesses need to be aware of export licences or supporting documentation they may need to export specific types of goods from the UK.
High risk goods, such as animals, plants or other controlled products, will need additional documentation. Requirements differ across EU countries, so businesses need to identify these and prepare fittingly; not complying with these could result in delays or penalties.
Next year, there will be 2 main options for exporting goods from Great Britain into the EU:
- Standard Export Procedures
- Transit
Standard Export Procedures
Once again, this refers to exporting goods through standard import procedures for all goods. Businesses need to make sure that they have licences and certification for all goods, especially controlled goods.
Transit
Just like importing using Transit, exporting using Transit applies similar rules; always be aware of additional documentation and processes.
More information about these two options, plus specific material for each can be found on the Government website.
Businesses are responsible for taking care of these new processes for importing and exporting goods to and from the EU and the UK. We understand it is overwhelming with all this new Brexit information to take hold of, but it is mandatory that these processes are followed closely but all UK hauliers.
The Portman Logistics team is on hand to offer help and advice if you need it, just contact us today. Even though we do not get involved in the export/import declarations, we are here to support you and help you make sure that your shipments are all handled safely and correctly.