By Timothy Adler on Small Business UK - Advice and Ideas for UK Small Businesses and SMEs
EU to UK import changes – what’s changing from January 1?
Currently, full customs declarations for EU goods can be deferred at the point of arrival.
However, from January 1, companies will no longer be able to delay making import customs declarations for EU goods, and will instead have to make declarations and pay relevant tariffs at the point of import.
Notice of imports of food, drink and products of animal origin will also be needed to be given in advance.
The Government has said that small businesses should consider how they are going to submit customs declarations and pay any duties.
Unless goods have a valid declaration and have received customs clearance, they will not be able to be released into circulation, and in most cases will not be able to leave the port.
Goods may be directed to an inland border facility for documentary or physical checks if these checks cannot be done at the border.
>See also: How to import from the EU
Exporting to EU also changing
Meanwhile, supplier declarations will be needed for the first time to export goods to the EU using tariff preferences — a reduced rate of customs duty granted as long as there is proof of origin.
New commodity codes from January 1
Commodity codes used worldwide to classify goods that are imported and exported will also change on January 1.
What you can do to prepare for EU import changes
- Speak to suppliers to ensure you have all you need to make declarations
- Consider alternative providers if that would be more efficient
- Think about different transportation routes
>See also: Do I need an import licence?
Business not ready for EU import changes
However, new Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) research has found that 75 per cent of small British importers are unready for new border controls on imports from the EU, sparking fears of further disruption to supply chains immediately after Christmas.
Only a quarter of small British importers are prepared for the new EU import changes.
One in eight (16 per cent) of importers surveyed said they are unable to prepare for the introduction of checks in the current climate, while a third (33 per cent) said they are unaware of any EU import changes coming into effect from January but will be affected by them.
Further reading on EU import
Import guide: three essential tips and everything you need to know
The post EU import changes – what’s changing from January 1 appeared first on Small Business UK.
via https://www.aiupnow.com
Timothy Adler, Khareem Sudlow
