As the political situation stands, the UK is set to leave the European Union on the 31st of October 2019, regardless of whether the government secures a deal.
“It is therefore important that you have some understanding of what to expect after this time to enable you to make the necessary preparations.”
1. An end to the customs union
The customs union that is currently in place makes sure that every member of the EU equally charges import duties to those outside the EU. This means that members of the EU are free to trade without being checked at borders. However, Brexit will see an end to this union. This means that you can expect customs checks at borders for both air freight and sea freight.
The customs union that is currently in place makes sure that every member of the EU equally charges import duties to those outside the EU. This means that members of the EU are free to trade without being checked at borders. However, Brexit will see an end to this union. This means that you can expect customs checks at borders for both air freight and sea freight.
Ensure you know the country of origin for your goods being exported – for the goods to be classed as being of UK Origin they must have been wholly produced in the UK or are items that have been sufficiently transformed during a manufacturing process. The Tariff Heading of the product will determine which rule applies.
One of the many areas of contention regarding the UK’s exit from the EU is Ireland. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, or an EU exit with ‘unfavourable’ terms, exports could be subject to high tariffs and border checks could be introduced, making trading extremely difficult. Since the Irish ‘backstop’ is yet to be agreed upon, exactly what trading will look like post-Brexit is unlikely to be made clear until this time comes.
On certain goods after Brexit, you may require an import licence to be able to import your goods into the UK. You will need to pay for customs clearance and declare your imports. A commercial invoice from your supplier, which states exactly what has been sold and the cost of the item, is also likely to be required.
The current system which manages trade complaints with the EU is managed by the European Commission. If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, it is believed that a UK Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) will replace this infrastructure. This body will similarly investigate trading practices and increased imports which are deemed as unfair and that may have a negative effect on UK trade.
At Independent Freight, we will endeavour to continue to assist with your freight shipping, regardless of whether we leave the EU with or without a deal. We are the best freight forwarders that can help you to continue to successfully operate your business, even in times of significant change.
Copyright © 2023 Independent Freight Solutions Ltd | Company number 05202892 | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy