Businesses warned over potential 'mistakes' which could cause delays when Brexit transition ends

Here's how to handle the new rules on moving goods into and out of Europe

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Dave Masters

10:53, 19 NOV 2020

With new rules for business starting on January 1, businesses that export or import need to take action now to prepare for changes at the border.

It’s important to act now as the changes will take place – whatever agreement the ��Ƶ reaches with the EU.

Customs declarations are complicated and require specialist skills. Mistakes can be costly and inevitably lead to delays.

This is why many businesses don’t try to manage the process alone, but get help from businesses like freight forwarders, express operators and customs agents.

What are freight forwarders?

Freight forwarders aid businesses throughout the process of importing and exporting goods. Enlisting the assistance of a freight forwarder is an effective way to ensure your company continues to run smoothly, following the end of the ��Ƶ’s transition period.

Davies Turner is one of the largest independent freight forwarding firms in the ��Ƶ. It’s been handling international freight and logistics for over 150 years.

“Our job is to move goods around the world for importers and exporters,” explains global sales and marketing director Alan Williams.

“We make that process happen, and that includes giving advice on customs procedures – going out and at the country of destination.”

Companies such as Davies Turner can help classify goods for customs purposes, sort out paperwork such as customs invoices, offer consultancy services or explain different regimes and rules.

Such is the demand for this expertise that the company has seen a 300 per cent increase in enquiries since the ��Ƶ’s departure from the EU was announced.

Customs clearance can be a complex process

So what type of companies does Davies Turner generally work with?

“We get a lot of business from blue chip clients such as Tesco because they know our processes fit with theirs,” Alan says.

“However, smaller businesses tend to get us to do everything for them. We’ll hold their hand through the whole process.”��

Experts save you time, trouble and money

Small businesses may be concerned that paying a freight forwarder is an expensive option, but Alan Williams puts that into context: “Customs clearance can be a complex process and it almost certainly doesn’t pay to do it yourself.

“Mistakes can have major financial implications, or can delay shipments, and most importantly lose the goodwill of valued customers.”

So the message is clear. British businesses may save themselves trouble and money if they get expert guidance to work through the imminent changes to importing and exporting between the ��Ƶ and EU.