Since the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union (EU) in January 2021, several changes have taken place, impacting various aspects of business operations. Among these changes are alterations to the process of posting goods and parcels from the UK to EU member states. In this blog post, we will explore the key modifications and considerations e-commerce businesses need to be aware of when shipping to the EU from the UK in the post-Brexit era.
Postboxed uses the iOSS system which means that all customs fees and taxes are included in your P&P price and we handle all paperwork etc. before anything leaves our warehouse.
- Customs Declarations:
One of the most significant changes is the requirement for customs declarations when sending goods from the UK to the EU. Previously, as part of the EU single market, businesses within the EU were exempt from customs procedures. However, post-Brexit, customs declarations are essential for all goods crossing the UK-EU border. E-commerce businesses must ensure they have the necessary expertise or partner with a customs agent to handle customs declarations accurately.
- EORI Number:
An Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number is now mandatory for UK businesses engaged in trade with the EU. This unique identifier allows customs authorities to track and monitor goods. E-commerce businesses must ensure they have a valid EORI number before shipping to EU countries to avoid delays or complications at the border.
- VAT and Import Duties:
With the UK's exit from the EU, new VAT and import duty regulations have come into effect. E-commerce businesses need to consider VAT implications, as goods exported to EU member states may now be subject to import VAT and customs duties. Understanding the VAT requirements of individual EU countries and ensuring compliance with import duty regulations is essential to avoid unexpected costs and customs-related issues.
- Product Compliance and Documentation:
Post-Brexit, UK businesses exporting goods to the EU must ensure their products meet EU product standards and regulations. This includes adhering to specific labelling requirements, safety certifications, and conformity assessments. E-commerce businesses should review and update their product documentation, ensuring it complies with EU standards to prevent potential barriers to trade.
- Delivery Times and Costs:
Since the implementation of new customs procedures and regulatory changes, e-commerce businesses should anticipate potential delays in delivery times and additional costs associated with customs processing. Factors such as customs clearance, document verification, and increased border controls can impact transit times and overall shipping costs. Communicating these changes to customers and managing their expectations becomes crucial to maintaining good customer relations.
The post-Brexit landscape has brought about significant changes to the process of posting goods from the UK to the EU. E-commerce businesses must adapt to the new customs declarations, VAT and import duty requirements, and product compliance standards. Understanding these changes, obtaining the necessary documentation, and partnering with customs experts can help businesses navigate the complexities and ensure smooth operations when shipping to the EU. By staying informed and proactively addressing these changes, e-commerce businesses can continue to serve their EU customers effectively, maintain compliance, and minimise disruptions in the post-Brexit era.
