Five things you need to do to get ready for Brexit
1. Get an EORI number
(Economic Operator Registration and Identification) EORI number. Without this you and/or your customers will not be able to import/export goods to/from the UK. More advice can be found here, EORI Mythbuster »
2. Register with Portbase (North Sea Only)
If there is a no-deal Brexit, you do not have access to the Dutch ferry terminals without customs documents that have been correctly, digitally pre-notified via the Port Community System of Portbase after the 31st of October. Read more »
3. Decide who will make import & export declarations.
You and/or your customers can hire someone to deal with customs for you or you can do it yourself. You must have all necessary customs clearance arrangements in place and are ready to make all required declarations before you can import/export goods.
4. Ensure that you fully understand the customs requirements of the Authorities for all stages of your journey including deciding whether you want to use transit arrangements.
You and/your customer may be able to use the Common Transit Convention (CTC) to simplify how the goods pass through customs and when your importer pays custom duties. If you’re regularly moving goods using CTC, you and/or your customer can apply for authorised consignor or consignee status. This will allow transit to start or end at your own premises rather than at a customs office. Find out if you can use CTC, UK Government ´Get ready to move goods guidance »
5. Ensure that you and your drivers fully understand the process and declarations required for your chosen ferry crossing.
Full information can be found in the three downloads under ‘Brexit’ below.
Follow Steps 1 to 5 before trying to check-in!
Make sure you have lodged customs declarations (including transit declarations if transit is used) and safety and security declarations (as appropriate) that cover both the export from the country you are leaving and the import to the country you are entering. Important – If you have not done this you will not be able to check in and will have to leave the port area to complete formalities or correct mis-declarations.