If you’re a haulier, you may have noticed a number of signs on UK motorways reading: “FREIGHT TO EU PAPERS MAY CHANGE 1 NOV PLEASE CHECK.”

Despite some confusion among drivers on social media, the signs appear to be part of a new £8 million government campaign, which is aimed at “making sure that hauliers have everything they need from traders to get through border customs smoothly after Brexit.”

The campaign also includes billboard and media advertising, multi-language handbooks for hauliers, and the establishment of pop-up centres in countries that process the most UK-bound freight.

Grant Shapps, transport secretary, said: “This campaign is another example of the extensive preparations we are making for leaving the EU on 31 October. As an outward-facing global trading nation, the efficiency of our ports is of paramount importance. This multi-million-pound initiative ensures the UK will remain open for business, with goods continuing to move freely.”

Guidance for hauliers

On 9 September, the government sent an email to 70,000 UK haulage operators, industry bodies and other interested parties detailing essential information for those driving to the EU after 31 October. The information is also available online and builds on guidance issued earlier this year, which we covered in a blog post at the time.

Richard Barnett, chief executive of the Road Haulage Association (RHA), commented: “Traders, haulage operators in particular, simply don’t have time to digest and implement the small print. They need to know right now how to get through the next few months.

“It is essential that the entire supply chain here and abroad understands what will be required. This information will certainly reduce the impact but it won’t be until 1 November that we get a clearer idea of what ‘impact’ actually looks like.”

Of course, it remains to be seen whether the UK will even leave the EU on 31 October, especially given the passing of legislation blocking a no-deal Brexit. However, hauliers are still advised to take note of the government’s updated guidance in the event that the UK does leave without a deal.

Your Brexit-ready haulage partner

At Waller Transport, we are fully prepared for the UK’s departure from the EU, regardless of how or when it occurs. Whatever load you need transporting, our team will do everything in their power to find the most efficient, cost-effective solution, minimising any disruption to your supply chain.

With our dedicated UK and European logistics services, and a strong presence at all major ports including Felixstowe, Immingham and Liverpool, we have the industry expertise and partnerships to manage multiple loads to and from the continent. Get in touch today to find out how we can keep your business moving.

 

Photo credit: Manchester Evening News

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