Top reasons for failed exports & imports and tips to prevent this
One month into the new UK/EU TCA and we have received a high volume of enquiries based around failed or problematic exports and imports to and from the EU.
To help you avoid unnecessary and unexpected problems with your movement of goods we have come up with a short checklist:
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CHECK YOUR INCOTERMS - a series of pre-defined commercial terms widely used in international commercial transactions. They are used to spell out exactly what delivery terms are being agreed, such as payment, transport and insurance but also, most importantly at the moment, who handles customs procedures, export and import declarations and who pays any duties and taxes. Ensure you and your customer understand the Incoterm and where the responsibility lies. Check whether either side can fulfil the customs responsibility involved.
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ARRANGE FOR AN EXPORT DECLARATION - An export declaration is required for all exports leaving the UK. Many details are required in order to complete one including an UK EORI number. The export will then be assigned to the company who holds that EORI and all customs audit trails will need to be officially held - i.e. proof of export. Read more here.
- ARRANGE FOR AN IMPORT DECLARATION - An Import declaration is required for all imports into the UK. Liaise with your supplier to ensure you have all the correct information, including a form of proof of origin, in order to complete successfully. Read more here.
- CHECK YOUR COMMODITY CODES - Ensure you select the correct Commodity Code for your goods. You can then use the Commodity Code tariff tools to find out the correct tariffs, duties, quotas and other requirements for your goods.
- CHECK THE RULES OF ORIGIN - You need to find out if your goods meet the Product Specific Rules to qualify for zero duty.
- LIAISE WITH YOUR FORWARDER OR TRANSPORT PROVIDER - Make sure you are aware of the procedures involved and check your forwarder can fulfil the requirements they need to meet.
- LIAISE WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS IN THE EU - Your customers will need guidance on how to trade with the UK . Make sure they are aware of all the new rules and regulations in place.