What importers and exporters need to do in preparation for a no-deal Brexit

[caption id="attachment_3125" align="alignright" width="300"] Shore crane loading containers in freight ship[/caption]

The clock struck midnight…Happy New Year!... and the clock continues to tick towards the 29 March 2019.

With the uncertainty as to what form Brexit will take, and the possibility that we may leave the

EU without a deal, there are 3 actions you need to take now if you import and/or export goods with the EU.  That’s because on the 29 March 2019 there would be immediate changes to the way you trade with businesses in the EU.

The 3 actions you need to take now are:

1. Register for a UK Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number

If we currently prepare your VAT Returns, we can do this for you.  Or you can do this online at www.gov.uk/hmrc/get-eori. You'll need an EORI number to continue to import or export goods with the EU after 29 March 2019, if the UK leaves the EU without a deal.  You will also need an EORI number before you can apply for authorisations that will make customs processes easier for you.

2. Decide if you need an agent

Decide if you want to hire an agent to make import and/or export declarations for you, or if you want to make these declarations yourself by purchasing software that interacts with HMRC's systems. If you want to declare through an agent, you must contact one to find out what information they'll need from you. If you want to make the declarations yourself, you will need to talk to a software provider to make sure that their software product meets your needs, depending on whether you import, export or both.

3.  Speak to your those who transport your goods

Contact the organisation that physically transports your goods to find out if you will need to supply additional information to them so that they can make the safety and security declarations for your goods, or whether you will need to submit these declarations yourself.