Throughout December, HMRC issued letters to business trading exclusively or heavily with customers based in the EU, outlining steps that they feel businesses should take in case a deal for the UK’s withdrawal from the EU cannot be reached prior to their exit. The letters were aimed at those trading in goods.
Within the letters, HMRC outlined 3 key points for businesses:
- If they have not already, businesses should obtain a UK EORI number. This number allows businesses to import goods into the UK. Customs procedures will be difficult and time-consuming if an EORI is not held.
- Consider hiring a specialist agent in imports/exports. If there is a ‘no-deal’ it is very likely that processes will change and significantly increased administration will arise.
- Discuss the potential requirements with partners who assist in the movement of your products (freight forwarders etc). Additional documentation etc. will be required and it is vital to ensure a system is in place to deal with this to minimise disruption to the business.
After the events of this week, it is clear that a ‘no-deal’ Brexit remains a possibility and so plans must be made for this eventuality.
