Efficient solutions for Brexit goods transport: Your reliable logistics partner
As a leading logistics company, we would like to inform you about important changes that have been affecting trade with the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland since January 1, 2021. The United Kingdom is no longer part of the customs union, which means that both imports and exports are subject to extensive customs regulations under Union law.
If your company delivers goods to the UK, sources goods from there, or transports goods through the United Kingdom, you are directly affected by the implications of Brexit. We aim to support you in preparing for these fundamental changes and overcoming potential challenges.
If we are to handle the customs clearance for you, we will require the following information/documentation from you:
After granting the Customs Power of Attorney, John Spedition can act as your direct representative in filling out customs declarations. The power of attorney needs to be issued only once. You can download it at the end of the page and send us the completed form.
The EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) registers and identifies all economic operators within the EU. It is issued by the customs authorities and is required for customs declarations for imports and exports.
If you do not have an EORI number yet, you can apply for one through the General Customs Directorate in Dresden using the following link: https://www.zoll.de/EN/Businesses/Central-questions/EORI-number/Application-for-an-EORI-number/application-for-an-eori-number_node.html
The creation of the Export Accompanying Document (EAD) is mandatory for goods exchange with the United Kingdom. Please provide the MRN (Movement Reference Number) of the EAD in the transport order and hand over the EAD along with the other documents to the driver. Starting from January 1, 2021, the creation of the EAD is also required for goods valued below €1,000.
If the EAD is not created by us, please indicate the exit customs office as Calais FR000740 in the EAD.
The value of the goods in the currency specified is used for calculating customs duties and value-added tax. The commercial invoice (or possibly an additional packing list) should clearly indicate the following information: importer details, number of packages, net/gross weight, country of origin, value of the goods, Incoterms (including the version of Incoterms used). Additionally, the commercial invoice must include the EORI number of both the exporter and the importer to facilitate the customs clearance process on the British side.
Since January 1, 2021, the United Kingdom is treated as a third country. After its withdrawal from the European customs union, goods originating from the United Kingdom can no longer be considered as EU goods. Therefore, an origin declaration is essential for customs processing.
The customs tariff number (HS code) is used to classify goods into standardized groups worldwide. This code allows customs authorities to identify the specific product categories being transported. The HS code determines the customs duties and taxes applicable to the goods.
To find the appropriate HS code for a specific product, you can refer to the Goods Nomenclature (Commodity Code) of External Trade. The link you provided (https://www.zolltarifnummern.de/) appears to be a useful resource for accessing the customs tariff numbers for various goods. You can search for the desired product or browse through the tariff categories to find the corresponding HS code.
The goods description can be provided through a packing list or delivery note. A detailed description of the goods (what, made of what, for what purpose) in the local language corresponding to the correct classification of the customs tariff number is required. Additionally, the gross and net weights, as well as the number and type of packages, should be indicated.
We collaborate with our business partners to agree on Incoterms® to determine who is responsible for customs clearance and associated costs. Please note that we adhere to the new Incoterms® 2020 (you can find an overview in the downloads section).
Please note that we are still in a “pending” process, and changes may occur at any time.
As a specialized logistics company, we are here to provide you with our comprehensive expertise and years of experience. We can assist you in navigating the new customs formalities, such as customs declarations, verifying product information and origin requirements, and addressing any questions regarding duties and taxes.
We understand that careful planning and preparation are essential to ensure smooth trade with the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. Our team of experts is available to help you understand the new requirements and take the necessary steps.
Please get in touch with us to discuss your specific needs and find tailored solutions for your logistics requirements related to Brexit. We are here to assist you and guide you through this challenging process. Rely on our knowledge to ensure that your trade flows smoothly and efficiently.