by David Hooper | Jul 7, 2021 | General News
This Customs Information Paper sets out HMRC’s policy on importers or their agents who were eligible to make an import declaration and who have unintentionally found themselves in receipt of undeclared goods in the period 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2021.
More information can be found here HMRC Guidance Information Paper
If you have not yet submitted your declaration, Independent Freight can help with this, please contact Neil or Emily who will be happy to assist you with this.
by David Hooper | Dec 29, 2020 | General News
Following the publication of the:
Trade and Cooperation Agreement Between the European Union and the United Kingdom of GB and NI
Please see below a brief summary of the key issues that may be relevant to you. We expect some more clarification over the next few days on some issues and the publication of up to date notices by HMRC.
Customs Declarations
- These WILL be required at both export and import, both here in the UK and in the EU.
- Import Vat will apply and will be payable based on the rules of the member state in the EU
- In the UK postponed VAT accounting can be used or a deferment account etc.
- The agreement does not affect arrangements on trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, which are covered under a separate protocol.
Tariffs and Quotas
- There will be NO tariffs on goods exported or imported between the UK and EU 27 (see below MAJOR CAVEATS)
- Cumulation can also be applied to UK/EU goods i.e. if a product is made in the UK from EU material these materials can be classed as originating (i.e. as if they were made in the UK).
- HOWEVER, the massive caveat to this is that goods must meet the requirements for preferential origin status.
- In addition to this a product will not be considered as originating in the UK/EU if a minimal process has been carried as described in the Agreement.
- Supplier declaration will be required from the exporter’s suppliers confirming origin of goods.
- The Exporter will be able to self-certify the origin of goods
- VERY IMPORTANT: if you export/Import goods that are not originating in the UK/EU add no value or undertake minimal processes and then export to the EU, then these products will be subject to the MFN standard tariffs and duties may apply. Same for goods coming from the EU to the UK.
Conformity
- Agreement avoids unnecessary technical barriers to trade with the EU on low risk products, more specifically information is provided on automotive products, wine, organics, pharmaceuticals and chemicals.
- All goods exported to the EU must meet their regulatory standard including food safety. Products of animal origin must carry veterinary certificates.
- Products that are required to display the CE mark must conform to EU standards.
- The UK will begin to introduce the new UKCA conformance mark but importers of CE marked goods from the EU will have 12 months to comply to the new requirements.
- The UK and EU will recognise each other AEO standards
Summary
- The UK/EU FTA eliminated duties and some invisible tariffs on goods which qualify subject to rules of origin
- Duties will still apply (subject to the Tariff) on non-originating goods as we have left the Customs Union
- Check conformity issues for specific goods
- Customs Procedures and declaration will happen from 11pm December 31 – ensure you and your suppliers/ customers are ready for this. Independent Freight Solutions Ltd is a Freight and Customs broker and can carry out your export and import declarations: Email Jenny@independent-freight.com or customs@independent-freight.com
- Import VAT will need to be accounted for / payable in the EU
by David Hooper | Dec 21, 2020 | General News
Dear Valued Customers,
It is important for us to communicate situations which may directly impact the quality of service we offer and want to keep you updated on the latest news regarding more countries banning arrivals from the UK because of concerns at the spread of a new variant of coronavirus crisis resulting in ports being closed. The Port and Eurotunnel shut to traffic heading to France at around 23:00 GMT last night in what is being described as an unprecedented situation.
Please click on this link for more information Port News
As a consequence, DHL Express unfortunately needs to suspend it road services both into and out of the UK, with immediate effect and until further notice. Although technically trucks can still enter the UK from mainland Europe, vehicles will be unable to return from the UK thereafter.
DHL still have their Air Express product, Time Definite International (TDI) available, so if you wish to convert to this please let us know so we can make the necessary arrangements.
Should you need any clarification please do not hesitate to contact us.
Kind Regards,
Jenny
Jenny@independent-freight.com
+44(0)2476 343037
http://www.independent-freight.com
by David Hooper | Dec 17, 2020 | General News
Dear Valued Customers,
There are currently huge volumes of freight moving across Europe as we all prepare for Brexit. Whilst capacity is obviously an issue we are also seeing huge delays getting into and out of the UK. This is being caused by the volume of trailers moving coupled with preparations for Brexit.
Unfortunately, we expect this situation to remain into the New Year. The above picture was taken on the approach to Dover this week and gives an idea of the current issues where drivers are experiencing delays of around 8 hours. We are obviously doing everything possible to ensure your freight reaches its destination on time, but we must advise that delays are likely.
If you have any freight requirements in the build-up to Christmas and the New Year, please contact us and we will endeavour to find a solution for you.
Kind Regards,
Jenny
Jenny@independent-freight.com
+44(0)2476 343037
http://www.independent-freight.com
by David Hooper | Dec 11, 2020 | General News
| We would like to stress the need to ensure that any wood used in the packing of cargo being exported to countries participating in ISPM-15, is either exempt (plywood/processed) or stamped accordingly with the universally accepted mark. Failure to stamp each individual material used in the construction of the packaging could result in the destination country rejecting the cargo and also insist on a full return. If in doubt, please refer to the government website and/or International Plant Protection Convention website and ensure you actively ask your exporter what specific packaging materials they use, to avoid any issues later on. Should you need any clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us. Kind Regards, Jenny Jenny@independent-freight.com
+44(0)2476 343037
http://www.independent-freight.com |
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by David Hooper | Nov 24, 2020 | General News
Independent Freight are delighted to welcome Emily De Sousa and Ryan Ward who have just joined the company.
Emily, who’s native language is Spanish, has a Master Degree in International Trade, with a good knowledge of logistics and customs valuation/processes.
Ryan has an Undergraduate Degree in Politics & International Relations, a Masters Diploma in Political and Financial Relations and has just completed his Master of Laws Degree.
They join Neil Lewis and Molly Smith as part of our Customs and Freight Operations Team.
