A document from the Border Force predicts that freight traffic crossing the Channel to mainland Europe could be restricted by between 75% and 87% in the event of a no deal Brexit. Disruptions of this magnitude could continue for at least 6 months.
The main reason for this is that France would impose “third country” border controls at customs, meaning that 100% of documents would be subject to checks, significantly slowing proceedings at Calais, the main entry point for cargo destined for other countries in Europe.
There is increased misery for haulage businesses based in Northern Ireland, many of which could even be forced out of business. This is because, of the 1200 permits to be granted to the UK, only 60 of these (5%) will be allocated to Northern Ireland. There are currently 20,000 lorries operating in Northern Ireland and 13,000 of these cross the border into the Republic of Ireland each day.
At Anthony Jones we’re keeping abreast of Brexit developments and will bring you updates that will impact your business as they unfold. We are working closely with our insurer partners to understand the insurance implications for our cargo and haulage customers to ensure they are fully protected, however events play out over the next few months.
