With the clock ticking ever closer towards March 29th the likelihood of a no deal scenario remains high. Whatever deal is brokered between the UK and the EU it is likely that there will be some form of regulatory requirement to import and export goods to and from Ireland.
While some clients have been actively working on contingency plans ahead of Brexit there are some that remain in a ‘wait and see’ scenario. I completely understand why. But there are some quick fixes that are worth looking at now so you are better prepared for whatever the outcome may bring and that the following details are actively considered as part of your company’s Brexit contingency plan.
A Hard Brexit will mean that the UK will no longer be bound by EU laws or benefit from EU trade resulting in customs formalities and border controls being reinstated. Whether you are exporting product into Ireland or importing finished product or returns from Ireland it will be necessary to ensure you have registered for an EORI number. The Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number can be obtained from customs and it was taking approximately three working days.
To obtain an EORI number: www.gov.uk/eori
Irrespective of what type of deal is brokered between the UK and EU it is imperative that you start familiarising yourself with the tariff classification of your product too. To ship goods commodity codes must be declared on commercial invoices. We recommend that any importer or exporter who has not previously had to classify existing products undertakes a full review to ensure the correct duties and taxes are levied by the customs authorities at time of import.
The current Brexit negotiation remains a moving target and as the situation develops over the coming weeks we will update you on any important information to move shipments to/from Ireland and beyond into Europe. Meantime please start assessing your supply chain and ensure that there is a robust regulatory process in place to minimise any potential disruption. If you have any questions that you may have in the coming weeks or months, please contact your Key Account Manager
