LOGISTICS 101
Since Brexit, businesses and individuals have faced numerous questions and potential complications when shipping goods between the UK and the European Union. For any business utilising pallet shipping, the rules become even more important to grasp.
Brexit's Impact on International Delivery: A New Era of Challenges and Costs
The United Kingdom's departure from the European Union ushered in a new era of challenges and increased costs for international delivery. The seamless flow of goods between the UK and EU countries, once facilitated by the single market and customs union, has been replaced by customs checks, tariffs, and an increase in paperwork.
The Burden of Customs Regulations.
Before Brexit, goods moved freely between the UK and the EU without customs checks or tariffs due to the UK being part of a single market. Now, the UK is treated as a third party for customs purposes, requiring customs checks and tariffs on all goods crossing the border. This has created a significant administrative burden for businesses, adding costs and delays to the delivery process.
Unfortunately, this has impacted the affordability of UK pallet delivery, with prices for EU export loads reaching new heights. European hauliers are increasingly reluctant to pick up return loads, leading to a reduction in supply and a subsequent surge in freight rates from the UK to the EU. This, in turn, has inflated import freight costs as EU hauliers price their services based on a round trip.
Longer Transit Times and Disrupted Routes
The friction introduced at the border has inevitably led to longer transit times between the UK and the EU. Due to the new border processes, returning to pre-Brexit lead times may be impossible. Groupage deliveries involving multiple pallets and extensive paperwork have been particularly affected. Any error in the paperwork could delay an entire trailer until the issue is resolved.
Many companies are rerouting shipments through the UK mainland to circumvent customs requirements, significantly increasing traffic on routes from Ireland to the EU.
The New Administrative Landscape for UK Exporters
The post-Brexit landscape requires UK exporters to navigate various new administrative hurdles and expenses. These include obtaining specific documentation for transporting goods in and out of the EU, ensuring drivers carry comprehensive documentation for their vehicles and insurance, certifying goods for entry into EU countries, correctly labelling goods to indicate their UK origin, and obtaining an EORI number for moving goods between the UK and the EU.
How can Pallet2Ship help me navigate these changes?
At Pallet2Ship, we understand the complexities of post-Brexit shipping and want to make the process as easy as possible. To do so, we offer:
- Documentation Assistance: Our team helps you prepare accurate commercial invoices and other necessary documents.
- Quality Partnerships: We work with experienced brokers to smooth customs clearance.
- Competitive Rates: We negotiate cost-effective solutions for pallet shipping to EU countries to ensure you get the best price.
Final Thoughts
Brexit has fundamentally transformed the landscape of international delivery between the UK and the EU. The introduction of customs regulations, increased costs, longer transit times, and disrupted routes have created significant challenges for businesses. Adapting to this new reality necessitates meticulous attention to detail, adherence to new administrative requirements, and a willingness to absorb increased costs.
While the long-term consequences of Brexit on international delivery will change over time, businesses must adapt to thrive in this new era. However, don’t let the process intimidate you. Pallet2Ship is your partner in navigating these changes, helping your goods reach their destination efficiently and without unnecessary hassle.
For further information, please visit our FAQ page and let us know how we can assist with your pallet delivery needs.