Moving goods across borders has become more complex since Brexit. New regulations, additional paperwork, and shifting customs procedures have added layers of responsibility for UK businesses.
The smooth, straightforward trading process many once relied on has been replaced with new checks, compliance demands, and administrative steps that can slow down the movement of goods. While these challenges are significant, they are not impossible to overcome with the right preparation and a clear understanding of how to navigate them. Businesses that develop efficient processes and partner with the right service providers can maintain reliable supply chains and protect their operations from unnecessary disruption.
Addressing Documentation Challenges Early
One of the most common obstacles in post-Brexit trade is incomplete or inaccurate paperwork. Errors with Rules of Origin documentation can lead to unexpected tariffs or goods being held at the border. Misclassification of products through incorrect commodity codes can cause similar delays and potentially result in fines. This makes pre-shipment document checks essential for any company exporting goods.
It is equally important for businesses to work with partners who have a strong grasp of customs requirements and the ability to spot potential problems before shipments leave the warehouse. Professional services, such as those offering logistics from Baxter Freight, can guide companies through the process and ensure every form and code is accurate. Having the right expertise on hand helps businesses avoid preventable errors and maintain consistent delivery schedules.
Understanding New Customs Procedures
Customs declarations are now mandatory for every shipment between the UK and EU, with detailed information required on the goods’ value, origin, and intended use. The introduction of the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) has also changed how shipments are processed. Businesses need to ensure they have Goods Movement References in place before arrival at border points and update these promptly if any shipment details change.
For smaller companies without in-house customs teams, using intermediaries can be a cost-effective way to manage compliance. These specialists take on the responsibility of preparing and submitting accurate declarations, allowing business owners to focus on operations without risking delays caused by incomplete paperwork.
Staying Compliant with VAT Requirements
Brexit brought significant changes to VAT rules for UK exporters. Many now face the need to register for VAT in multiple EU countries, each with its own documentation and reporting processes. Mistakes such as using the wrong invoice format or omitting VAT registration numbers can cause complications that take time to resolve.
Working with local representatives in each EU market can streamline VAT compliance and prevent misunderstandings. Digital VAT management tools can also help track obligations across jurisdictions and ensure submissions are made on time. By keeping VAT processes organised, businesses reduce the risk of unexpected charges and improve cash flow predictability.
Improving Supply Chain Efficiency
The unpredictability of border processing times has prompted many businesses to adjust their supply chain strategies. Holding additional stock in key locations can provide a safety buffer against delays, but it requires careful planning to avoid tying up too much capital. Another approach is shipment consolidation, which combines multiple smaller consignments into one larger shipment. This reduces the number of customs declarations required and can lower administrative costs.
Consolidation works best when there is a reliable schedule of collections and deliveries. Using a logistics partner with strategically located hubs can make this process more efficient. The key is to ensure the documentation for consolidated shipments is as precise as for individual consignments to avoid clearance issues.
Selecting the Right Freight Partners
Partnerships with freight providers can have a major influence on supply chain performance. Businesses should consider a partner’s track record in on-time deliveries, customs clearance success, and documentation accuracy before committing. Asking about their knowledge of specific product categories and destination markets can help determine if they are equipped to handle a company’s requirements.
Providers that proactively check for errors before goods leave the warehouse can prevent problems that might otherwise cause costly disruptions. Sector-specific expertise is also valuable, especially when goods require temperature control, secure handling, or other specialist care.
Meeting Sustainability and Compliance Goals
Environmental regulations are increasingly shaping the way freight operations are managed. Many businesses are now expected to report emissions from their transport activities. This can be challenging when multiple carriers are involved in a shipment, particularly when calculating Scope 3 emissions.
To meet these obligations, companies can request detailed fuel usage and journey data from all carriers involved. Digital solutions that include integrated emissions calculators can simplify reporting and improve accuracy. Beyond compliance, demonstrating sustainable practices can also enhance a company’s reputation with environmentally conscious customers and partners.
Avoiding Frequent Border Mistakes
Every shipment should undergo a thorough document verification process before it leaves the warehouse. Commercial invoices must align perfectly with customs declarations. EORI numbers should be valid and active, and commodity codes should match precise product descriptions. Even a minor inconsistency can prompt further inspection at the border.
Some businesses find it beneficial to have a dedicated pre-shipment verification process carried out by an experienced logistics partner. This step adds a layer of quality control, making it less likely for errors to slip through and cause delays.
Building Long-Term Resilience
Brexit has redefined how UK businesses trade with the EU, but those willing to adapt can still find opportunities for growth. By improving documentation processes, understanding customs procedures, staying compliant with VAT requirements, and building strong relationships with the right freight partners, companies can develop resilience. This approach not only prevents disruptions but also creates a framework for efficient, sustainable, and competitive trade.
Keep Your Goods Moving with Confidence
Cross-border trade after Brexit presents challenges, but preparation and the right support make it possible to operate smoothly. Businesses that invest in accurate documentation, trusted logistics partners, and efficient supply chain strategies can reduce delays and maintain customer satisfaction. Now is the time to review your processes, identify potential weaknesses, and put solutions in place that will keep goods moving without unnecessary disruption.
