New procedures and requirements
Even if you’re not moving goods directly you may still be exposed to import and export problems via your supply chain.
Ensure you can navigate new rules, tariffs and VAT requirements and check with your suppliers to ensure readiness and manage your risk.
Our customs experts are available to answer your questions.
Prioritise these areas in your Brexit planning...
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VAT
If the UK leaves the EU without a trade deal, EU suppliers moving goods into the UK may need to register for VAT in the UK.
UK suppliers importing goods into EU post Brexit will likely need to register for VAT in the member state of importation. There may also be requirements to appoint a local fiscal representative.
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Tariffs
Brexit may lead to tariffs between the UK and EU and change UK access to international markets.
The UK and the EU will seek to agree tariff free trade between their markets, but we cannot rule out some tariffs if the UK does not agree to a regulatory level playing field with the EU.
The UK will set its own external tariffs for imports from the rest of the world. This may be similar to the no-deal tariffs published by the UK government in 2019.
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Paperwork
As the UK leaves the EU, organisations will need to comply with new rules and have the appropriate shipping documents to clear goods.
For detailed guidance on the VAT and customs implications of no deal, download our guide for importers and exporters.
Four things you can do now
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Review possible tariffs
The UK Government also launched a consultation on future UK ‘most favoured nation’ external tariffs, the import tariffs the UK will levy on goods from countries with which it does not have a specific free trade agreement with. From 1 January 2021 this may or may not apply to EU imports, depending on whether a trade agreement is reached by then. These will apply to imports into the UK and may create opportunities for organisations importing from outside the EU and countries without existing Free Trade Agreements.
You should also explore the possible tariff barriers you will face exporting to international markets.
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Make sure your paperwork is in order
To avoid delays and ensure goods can be cleared, make sure you have all you need to complete export customs declarations and have the appropriate shipping documents as proof of the export or appoint a customs agent to assist.
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Prepare for VAT changes
- – Ensure you have necessary VAT registrations in place
- – Understand exposure to Import VAT costs on exports to Europe
- – Update processes to handle new rules on Import VAT payments
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Utilise government support
Government grants are available to help you complete customs declarations. You can get funding for training, IT improvements or recruitment.
"Moving goods and delivering services across borders is going to become more complex. New procedures and tariffs will need to be navigated. We can guide you through new rules, support with training, ensure compliance and utilise available supports to ensure you continue to meet client needs."
Karen Robb, Partner
Our work with clients
Over the last three years we’ve worked with organisations of many sizes and sectors to help them prepare for political volatility.
Supporting business as usual through Brexit
A retailer was looking at ways to continue distributing product to clients across Europe. We organised a workshop with experts across VAT, customs and supply chain operations to run through various models and establish a resilient plan. Once a preferred model was agreed, our UK and European firms supported in the execution, including organising the necessary VAT registrations, gaining an EU EORI number and the provision of fiscal representation.
