This year, there are new requirements for goods imported into the UK from the EU. These changes are outlined in the Border Target Operating Model or BTOM, the Government’s new approach for importing EU goods into Great Britain post-Brexit.
April saw physical checks and pre-notifications brought in for certain animal and plant products. Now, businesses must prepare for the next tranche of changes in October.
We take a look at what you need to know.
What do the October 31 changes entail?
Safety and security declarations (SSD) will be required for all imports from the EU into the UK. For goods that already require export health certificates and other documents, the SSDs will be another additional necessity.
Who will be affected?
UK businesses importing from the EU and hauliers
Officially, the ‘Carrier’ is responsible for submitting the SSD. For driver accompanied vehicles entering the EU, this will be the haulier. For unaccompanied vehicles, this is the ferry operator.
However, many ferry operators will pass the responsibility to hauliers – and hauliers will need the data from their customers, whether these are food manufacturers, wholesalers or retailers. This means any business in a supply chain involving EU imports must be aware of the changes and how they will affect them.
… especially those ONLY involved in EU imports (not from the rest of the world)
SSDs were already required for non-EU goods. Businesses that only import from the EU will be facing management of SSDs for the first time.
In a recent OneAdvanced webinar, Anna Doherty, Senior Trade and Customs Specialist at The Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade, and Industry Chair of the HMRC Joint Customs Consultative Committee (JCC), said that “For businesses that are importing from the EU only, especially via road freight, this will be like a Brexit 3.0, as there will be another layer of change to prepare for.”
What are the potential consequences of the new requirements?
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Delays at border
Delays were already experienced as a result of BTOM’s second phase, with long waits for drivers at Border Control Points. The teething period for SSDs could result in more delays.
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Issues with perishable goods
Delays are of particular consequence for perishable goods, with risk of spoilage or, for seeds and crops, missing planting windows.
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Potential rejection at border
In a worst-case scenario, products could be rejected at the border if they do not have the necessary documentation.
How can you prepare for new requirements?
For the previous tranches of BTOM, delays have in many cases been a result of hauliers having incorrect certification. Understanding the new requirements and the legislation that underpins them, and therefore having the correct certification from the start, will help protect you from issues.
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Hauliers: Understand what is required of you
Hauliers play a critical role under the new rules and must be well-informed about the BTOM requirements. Understanding what is needed and ensuring compliance can help prevent delays and disruptions in the supply chain.
Hauliers should stay updated on the latest regulations and collaborate with their customers to ensure that all documentation is complete and accurate. Clarify responsibilities, so your customers are prepared to provide you with the requisite data. Additionally, staff must be trained in the new requirements and process.
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Manufacturers and wholesalers: Assess your supply chain
Manufacturers and wholesalers need to reassess their supply chains in light of the new BTOM changes. Identifying potential bottlenecks and ensuring that suppliers and logistics providers are ready is crucial. You must also be prepared to provide your hauliers with the information they need, including goods descriptions and type, amount and packaging of goods.
Conducting a thorough review of the supply chain and working closely with suppliers and hauliers can help identify and address issues before they become problematic. A supplier management solution will help you mitigate risks and assess readiness, by providing a complete view of your suppliers.
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Retailers: Prepare for delays
Retailers must prepare for potential delays in their supply chains due to the new BTOM requirements.
Hopefully, the new rules will be understood by your suppliers and logistics providers. However, retailers should work closely with suppliers and logistics providers to develop contingency plans
Join our webinar on September 12
Changing EU import controls: October’s “Brexit 3.0” and adapting with success
Join our expert-led webinar, where leaders from key trade industry bodies will discuss how BTOM has been adopted so far, how to prepare for October’s change and what the future may look like as a new government promises new agreements.
Panellists:
- Anna Doherty, Senior Trade and Customs Specialist, The Chartered Institute of Export and International Trade
- Ashton Cull, Public Affairs Manager, Road Haulage Association
- Josh Fenton, Policy Manager, Trade Customs and Borders, Logistics UK
- Calum Howles, Sales Manager, OneAdvanced