A number of new custom rules are being introduced throughout 2022, affecting eCommerce businesses importing into the UK or exporting internationally.
In January, new customs rules came into force in the wake of Brexit and the adoption of a new trade agreement between the UK and EU. As of January 1st 2022, goods travelling to the UK from EU countries had to make declarations and pay relevant tariffs at the time of import.
Although these changes have now been in place for a few months, many goods are ending up at Inland Border Facilities for further checks as a result of incomplete or inaccurate customs data – or being returned to sender at customs borders.
Further changes to UK customs July 2022
It’s more important than ever to make sure your customs and duties data is accurate as further changes to customs rules and regulations in the UK are being introduced in July 2022.
Although full details of the new customs rules haven’t been confirmed yet, it’s understood they will include:
- Requirements for safety and security for all imports
- New requirements for Export Health Certificates
- Requirements for Phytosanitary certificates
- Physical checks on sanitary and phytosanitary goods at Border Control Posts
There are also changes to the rules surrounding importing animal products from the EU as of July 2022, which means your import documents will need to have the Unique Notification Number (UNN) – that the IPAFFS (Import of Products, Animals, Food and Feed Systems) system generates – displayed on your health certificate.
An original health certificate must also travel with your shipment from July, along with copies of all the other documents. A photocopy of the health certificate will no longer be accepted if an inspection is required.
Changes to food products
Food products will also face new customs clearance procedures, including dairy, fish, composite and all other port health controlled products.
These additional checks will follow the same process as the animal products detailed above, with original health certificates and copies of all other paperwork required to accompany your shipment.
The changes to dairy products will come into effect as of September 2022, while fish, composite and all other port health controlled products will be affected from November 2022.
Stay ahead with Sprint Logistics
While the new border controls are phased in following the UK’s departure from the EU, customs clearance, regulations and duties may remain subject to changes. It’s essential eCommerce retailers or any organisations reliant on cross-border freight stay up to date with the changes and ensure goods don’t get held at customs or even destroyed upon entry to either the UK or the EU.
Getting caught out by changing regulations can lead to costly delays and damage your reputation with customers; partnering with a logistics expert like Sprint Logistics can take the hassle out of compliance and ensure your logistics are fast, efficient and cost-effective.
To find out more about Sprint Logistics and see how you could benefit from our expertise and global logistics services, get in touch today.
