European Union (EU) Exit
Doing business with Europe has changed. You need to follow new rules on exports, imports, tariffs, data and hiring.
What do you need to do?
The GOV.UK website has all the info you need to make sure you have taken any action required following the new Agreements with the EU. You may need to take a range of actions and we'd recommend you use the Government's Checker Tool to find out what they are for your business.
However, here are 9 immediate actions you can take:
- Register for a UK Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number
- Decide if you want to hire an agent to make import and/or export declarations for you or if you want to make these declarations yourself (by buying software that interacts with HMRC’s systems, registering for the National Export System). Customs intermediaries and traders completing customs declarations can now apply for grants to support training and IT.
- Contact the organisation that moves your goods (for example, a haulage firm) to find out if you will need to supply additional information to them - and make sure drivers understand the documents they need at the border.
- Ensure you are aware of the new import procedures.
- Confirm if you need licences or certificates to bring your goods across the border.
- Be aware of changes to the way you account for VAT on imports.
- Check for updates on tariffs that apply to your goods, and consider using duty relief schemes
- Ensure you're prepared to allow any personal data flows from Europe to continue after EU exit.
- Signpost your European employees to the EU Settlement Scheme.
- Sign up for the Government's business readiness bulletins.