Brexit Preparations
As the UK’s departure from the EU grows closer, I want to update you on what is required and what to expect in the event of a ‘Hard Brexit and what you can do to be ‘Brexit Ready’.
What our partners DHL Express and FedEx are doing to prepare
A team of dedicated experts have been working since the 2016 referendum to identify risks and find solutions that will minimise the impact and disruption of Brexit as much as possible.
They have invested in additional bonded warehousing space and trained new customs professionals in readiness for additional border clearance procedures. Their networks and systems have been reviewed and re-designed where necessary, and where new permits may be required, they have been obtained.
What to expect
1. DHL Express and FedEX are working to ensure their business/s is are prepared as possible, however delays at the ports and therefore increased transit times for their road services are likely.
An Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number will be required to move goods between the UK and EU after Brexit. The UK Government has issued all VAT-registered businesses with an EORI number by post. Other businesses can apply via the Government portal here. It’s free to apply and takes around 10 minutes.
As a priority, please submit your EORI number to DHL Express here if you have not already done so, FedEx clients are requested to include their EORI number at the point of completing their customs invoices. This will help prevent additional delays.
To Check if your EORI number is already validated please refer to the below website
https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/eos/eori_validation.jsp?Lang=en
2. Digital customs paperwork submissions will be essential to help clear customs quickly.
Following Brexit, in almost all circumstances additional paperwork will be required when importing or exporting non-document shipments between the UK and the EU. It’s important you understand which paperwork will be required for the type of goods you import / export.
If you haven’t already, please sign up to DHL Express’ Paperless Trade (PLT) service to submit digital customs invoices. Submitting customs paperwork this way is expected to be extremely beneficial when clearing shipments through Customs post-Brexit. Most countries accept PLT and it’s a good way to improve efficiency whilst reducing your environmental impact. More information on PLT can be found here. Contact your account manager to get started now.
3. As trading with the EU becomes more complex (especially in a ‘No Deal’ scenario), additional cost will be incurred throughout the logistics industry, as more systems and processes, paperwork and formalities are introduced.
What you can do to prepare
DHL’s customer guide, checklist, and Frequently Asked Questions will help you prepare your business for Brexit. These can be found at dhlguide.co.uk/brexit.
The UK Government’s Brexit information hub is an informative and accessible source of more information regarding imports, exports, and the bigger picture of what to expect from Britain’s departure from the EU. The homepage can be found at www.gov.uk/euexit.
Brexit remains a challenge to businesses of all shapes and sizes, and we must all work collectively to reduce concerns and mitigate risks. If you require more help or assistance, please contact the Freight Brokers Team.