Phased Customs Controls for imports from the EU
13. October 2020 - Brexit is changing the way UK trades with the EU and other countries around the world. UK businesses for example are required to declare goods for each consignment on all imports and exports, not to mention safety and security declarations may be required by the goods carrier. UK businesses will need to consider rules for classification, valuation and origin of goods for tariff purposes and any customs special procedures such as customs warehousing.
Phased customs controls for all imports from the EU has been announced by the UK government, please see attached for a timeline snapshot:
1 JANUARY 2021 – Deferral of Brexit import and export duties
From 1 January 2021, UK businesses that are importing ‘standard goods’ can take advantage of a 6 month duties deferral. UK businesses can keep a record of their import consignments and defer submission of customs import declarations and payment of duties up until 1 July 2021. To take advantage of the deferral period, importers or the acting agent are required to have authorisation to use simplified declarations for imports and have a duty deferment account in place with HMRC by 1 July 2021.
Full import controls, including safety and security declarations will be required. Checks and declarations will apply to controlled goods, such as alcohol and tobacco. Live animals and high risk plant products require pre-notification and health documentation
1 APRIL 2021 – BREXIT related changes on POAO
From 1 April 2021, products of animal origin (POAO) and regulated plant products require pre-notification and health documentation.
1 JULY 2021 – BREXIT duties deferral period for importers
Remember for UK businesses to take advantage of the 6 month duties deferral period, importers or the acting agent are required to have authorisation to use simplified declarations for imports and have a duty deferment account in place with HMRC by 1 July 2021.
New trade agreements after BREXIT
The UK has been free to strike new deals for buying and selling goods and services around the world. To keep the country trading, the UK government are negotiating and entering new trade agreements with other countries. For example: UK-Japan trade agreement in principle was announced on 11 September 2020 and we expect that more FTA’s will be announced in the coming months.
Post-Brexit Import VAT
For information on how to account for import VAT from 1 January 2021, see here. Please be aware of guidance comments regarding ownership of goods.
At your side – Your partner for post-BREXIT imports and exports
It is more important than ever to have a trusted and reliable customs partner connected to your business. All three Röhlig UK branches offer customs brokerage and are able to process customs for imports and exports at all UK ports and airports. While we are keeping up to date with governmental processes, our team are on hand to guide you through the complexity of customs compliance and to help you manage your UK import and export procedures.
Disclaimer.
Whilst we endeavour to keep you informed with Brexit announcements, please note this page is for information purposes only. For a detailed explanation please refer to GOV.UK website.
