Post-Brexit Import and Export

Helping you manage your goods post-Brexit

2021 has seen challenges for businesses that import and export across Europe. With over 35 years of experience, McLanachan Transport understands the complexities of cross-border transportation.

We have been transporting goods to and from the European Economic Area (EEA), countries outwith the European Union (EU), where border checks and customs have always been in place. Within McLanachan Transport, these services and our support are part of our day-to-day operations and management.

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European wide logistics network built around our customers.

For many years we have delivered consignments to and from Norway and Switzerland, particularly in the pharmaceutical and food sectors. Although part of the EEA, there are procedures and checks required outside the EU. Our experience ensures McLanachan Transport is ready for the new border checks, which are now in place for imported and exported goods between the UK and the EU.

To complement our integrated transport services, we work with a network of shipping agents who have relevant experience and knowledge of regulations to ensure that your goods are transported smoothly, without interruption and intact across borders to their final destination. If you already have a relationship with a preferred agent, we will be happy to work with them on your behalf.

From the moment we receive your enquiry, McLanachan Transport will work with you to ensure your consignment reaches its destination without any issues and, most importantly - on time. We have tried and tested processes that ensure customer satisfaction.

What you need to know when importing and exporting post-Brexit

The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the European Union has set out future trade relations. New customs procedures are now in place for all businesses who import and export between the UK and EU.

Post-Brexit Documentation Jargon Buster

Your importing and exporting journey comes with new terminology. We aim to explain some of the principal terms used throughout the process.

TIR - Stands for "Transports Internationaux Routiers", in English means International Road Transport. It is an internationally recognised system allowing goods to cross one or more borders with reduced customs interference whilst in transit. TIR is only relevant if part of the journey is by road.

Transit T-Form - The NCTS T-form can only be completed by an individual or company with access to the Customs NCTS system. Any goods entering the continent without a T-form would not be allowed to move beyond the port of arrival.

NCTS - New Computer Transit System, used for electronic declarations and messages. You can find more information at  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-new-computerised-transit-system-supporting-guidance/how-to-get-online-access-to-ncts

EORI - Stands for "Economic Operators Registration and Identification number". Businesses and people trading must use the EORI number as identification in all customs procedures. Apply for your EORI number here https://www.gov.uk/eori/apply-for-eori

If you move goods to or from Northern Ireland, you will need an XI EORI number.

Here are the key points you need to know:

  • The best place to start your journey is to visit https://www.gov.uk/transition  
  • All shipments to, from or via the EU require EAD, EX1, EX Customs declarations
  • All shipments between the EU & UK require customs clearance
  • You must have an EORI number created on gov.uk
  • Road exports to or via the EU need T-forms or TIR carnet to deliver past the 1st country of arrival or transit beyond the EU
  • For temporarily exported goods returning in an unaltered state, examples are exhibitions, horse racing and motorsports events; an ATA Carnet is required
  • Although there is a 'Tariff Free' trade agreement, not all goods are tariff-free. For all new rules and guidance, visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tariffs-on-goods-imported-into-the-uk 

Help and Guidance

The UK Government has created a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the changes, including registering for an EORI number and further information on forms and other paperwork required. We have also included a link to the Dutch Ports Brexit resources, which will offer additional support.

Below you will find several downloadable guides and documents to help you ensure your imports and exports are ready for post-Brexit management.

Resources

Get Ready For Brexit - Dutch Ports Resource WebsiteVisit


Make Sure You Are Ready - UK.GOV WebsiteVisit


McLanachan Transport Keeping Your European Goods Moving in 2021

Enquiry

Our Planning department works closely with you, asking the relevant questions and completing our checklist. Based on the information you provide us with, we check tariff rates and confirm our quote.

Preparation

Once we receive all relevant documentation and goods invoices, your customer services team member will schedule your consignment, implement a route and fuel plan and ensure all exit and entry documentation is in place.

Working with Customs Agent

At McLanachan Transport, we specialise in moving goods consignments across Europe. Still, we believe in working with Customs Agents who have experience in cross-border transport and can help ensure all goods get to their destination without issue or interference.

We can work with one of our network agents, or your assigned agent, to assess the country of origin, ensuring any restrictions and legal requirements are satisfied. We will complete a tax assessment and prepare all of the customs paperwork and clearance documents.

Monitoring, Delivery and Reporting

Once a shipment is on-route, our team tracks your consignment's vehicle and integrity, monitoring scheduled route stops and expected location stages throughout the journey. We monitor the temperature of the goods to ensure they reach the final destination in prime condition. Our end-to-end client reporting gives our clients confidence when using McLanachan Transport for all domestic and European consignments.

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