As of 31 January 2020, The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK) left the European Union (EU) and therefore the EU Single Market and Customs Union. However, as a result of the transition period, the effects of the UK leaving the EU will not be felt until after the end of the transition period which takes place on 31 December 2020.

After the transition period, GB, and not Northern Ireland (“NI”) will impose controls on goods moving from the EU to GB, in a model similar to how it handles Rest of World imported goods. These controls will be introduced in three phases over a six-month period from 1 January 2021.

For movements from GB to EU, full declarations will be required from 1 January 2021 - the approach will not be phased.

As a result, there will be significant changes to the current processes of moving goods between GB and EU. All stakeholders involved in the cross-border movement of goods will need to be aware of the changes, make all necessary decisions and complete all administrative actions at the earliest opportunity to avoid unnecessary disruption. As freight forwarders and customs brokers handle the majority of transport and customs formalities, they will be pivotal in ensuring the seamless flow of goods between the EU and GB from 1 January 2021. We recommend engaging with any customers who might be affected by these changes.

It is clear that many details as to how cross-border trade between the EU and GB/NI will work are not yet available, more detailed guidance for hauliers, freight forwarders and ports/terminals is intended to be provided in the coming months as governments provide further clarity.

Recognising that clarity does not exist for every function or role at this time, this webpage is intended to provide a balanced resource for stakeholders in the supply chain, collating available information, providing answers and guidance to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable there is a smooth transition into 2021. It may be prudent for businesses to seek professional/legal guidance regarding particular aspects of the pending changes in order to fully protect your business.