The UK officially left the EU on the 31st Dec 2020. And it was expected that there could be disruption at the border as hauliers and others travelling between the UK and EU got to grips with new processes, document requirements and the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19.
As a result, a number of traffic management measures were put in place in key areas such as Kent where major ports are located. Now that it has been a number of months since Brexit completed, some of these measures for those travelling between the UK and EU are being eased. We look at which are being eased and which still need to be adhered to.
How are the post-Brexit rules for hauliers travelling between the UK and EU changing?
The government report that trade levels are returning to normal. As such, some of the traffic management measures which had been put in place in Kent to manage possible Brexit related disruption have been removed.
This includes:
- The need to have a Kent Access Permit (KAP) ceased from the 20th April
- The M20 moveable barrier was removed on the 24th April
Removing the need for a KAP should result in less paperwork for hauliers to complete before travelling between the UK and EU.
Which rules must hauliers continue to follow when travelling between the UK and EU after Brexit?
Proof of a negative COVID-19 test
Hauliers travelling from the UK need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test when travelling from the UK to Denmark or Germany. This is the case if they are your final destination or if you are just travelling through.
A negative test result is no longer needed for hauliers travelling to France or the Netherlands.
For hauliers travelling from abroad arriving into England you must take a COVID-19 test if you are staying for more than 2 days. Further tests are required every 3 days after that if you remain within England. This applies to both UK and non-UK based hauliers.
You can obtain a free COVID-19 test at a haulier advice site.
Rules and document requirements for moving good between the UK and EU
Hauliers moving goods between the UK and EU also need to continue to adhere to the correct rules and have the correct documents in place before travelling.
This includes considering the following:
- Operator licences and permits
- Registering trailers
- Specialist vehicle approvals
- Vehicle documents
- Driver eligibility to travel abroad
- Following import and export rules
- Completing a road consignment note (CMR)
Is Brexit continuing to cause disruption to hauliers at the borders?
Many of the worst-case scenarios linked to Brexit and border disruption were avoided but there have still been reports of delays and disruption as those travelling adapt to new processes and procedures.
In February, The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply revealed data which showed 63% of businesses suffering delays of 2-3 days getting goods into the UK, and 44% experiencing similar delays getting goods into the EU. With an increase in customs paperwork highlighted as a main reason behind the delays.
But with trade returning to normal levels and traffic management measures being removed it is hoped that disruption is reducing. The UK government have also delayed the introduction of some additional checks on EU goods coming into Great Britain which may continue to help ease the situation and give both businesses and borders infrastructure further time to prepare.
It remains important for your business to be up to date with all of the post Brexit changes and how rules relating to importing and exporting goods between the EU and UK have changed to avoid any delays or disruption to your business operations. If you have any questions about your insurance needs post Brexit then don’t hesitate to get in touch with our teams at Anthony Jones who will be more than happy to help.
