If you’re a business moving goods between the UK and Northern Ireland, you’ve likely noticed that things have changed quite a bit in recent years. With Brexit reshaping trade rules and new agreements coming into play, navigating logistics across this route can feel like a bit of a maze.
But don’t worry - as a 3PL provider, we’re here to help make sense of it all.
The upcoming Windsor Framework is set to refine existing regulations, bringing further adjustments to how goods move between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Whether you're a logistics provider too, a business owner, or part of a supply chain team, understanding these updates is the key to keeping operations smooth and avoiding unnecessary delays.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, ranging from the impact of Brexit to what the Windsor Framework means for the logistics demands of your industry.
Key Points:
Transition Period: The Windsor Framework was initially scheduled to come into effect in October but has been postponed until the end of March. Businesses should be fully prepared for the new arrangements by 31 March 2025.
Predicting the Process: With the framework's implementation approaching, it's possible to anticipate the processes and requirements that will come into play.
Upcoming Changes: Beginning in April, significant changes will affect how goods are moved between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Since the UK's departure from the EU, businesses have faced new challenges in moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland Protocol, part of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, was implemented to avoid a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
As a result, Northern Ireland remains in the EU's single market for goods, whilst the rest of the UK does not. This means that goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland are subject to certain checks and controls to ensure compliance with EU rules.
The Windsor Framework aims to streamline the movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, reducing trade friction while ensuring the integrity of the EU's single market. Key aspects include:
Businesses will need to complete customs declarations when moving goods to Northern Ireland. Goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland are considered 'internal UK movements' but, due to the Northern Ireland Protocol, they are also treated as if they are entering the EU. As a result, customs declarations are required. The Trader Support Service (TSS) can assist businesses in completing these declarations.
It's essential to determine if your goods are classified as 'at risk' of entering the EU market, as this will affect the duties and processes applicable.
Certain goods, such as products of animal origin, plants, and plant products, are subject to SPS checks to ensure they meet EU standards. It's important to check whether your goods fall under any of these categories before shipping.
To ensure a smooth transition and continued efficient operations, businesses should:
Stay Informed: Regularly consult official government resources and industry updates to stay ahead of the latest developments.
Assess Your Supply Chain: Evaluate your current logistics processes to identify areas that may be affected by the upcoming changes.
Engage with Support Services: Utilise services like the Trader Support Service (TSS) for assistance with customs declarations and understanding new requirements.
Train Your Team: Ensure that your staff are knowledgeable about the new procedures and documentation requirements to prevent delays and compliance issues.
By proactively preparing for these changes, businesses can navigate the evolving logistics landscape between the UK and Northern Ireland with confidence. As always, we're here to support you through this transition, providing expert guidance and reliable logistics solutions to keep your operations running smoothly.
At PTI Express, we understand that regulatory changes can create uncertainty for businesses moving goods between the UK and Northern Ireland. Our team of logistics experts are here to support you through these transitions, providing tailored solutions to ensure compliance, minimise delays, and keep your supply chain running smoothly.
From offering guidance on customs declarations and SPS checks to optimising your shipping routes for efficiency, we take the hassle out of logistics so you can focus on growing your business.
Whether you're looking for real-time tracking, dedicated freight services, or hands-on customs support, PTI Express has the expertise and infrastructure to keep your operations moving seamlessly.
Contact us today via telephone or email to get ahead of the changes and better equip your logistics processes for the future -
T: 01788 542500
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GOV.UK, Trading and moving good in and out of Northern Ireland
Nationwide Courier Service, Shipping Goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland in 2024
NICTA, A Beginner’s Guide for Importing Goods to Northern Ireland