Truck and Track Spring 2021

Truck and Track Spring 2021 www.truckandtrack.com 10 BUSINESS NEWS AftertheBrexittransitionperiodfinallyendedon31stDecember 2020 and with Covid-19 protocols causing disruption to travel, it is clear that the logistics industry has seen a challenging start to 2021. Despite fair warning for businesses, there have been numerous reports of severely delayed journeys caused by increased customs documentation and ‘Brexit red tape’, exacerbated by the need for hauliers to provide negative Covid tests to travel. The requiredvolumes of declarations has also led to significant wastage of fresh produce, damaging businesses and impacting whole sectors. Indeed, some3PLorganisations actuallyhalteddeliveries in January to the EU or Northern Ireland due to the increase of documentation, showing the true impact of Brexit on supply chains. This not only disrupts logistics operations, but is fundamentally damaging to the UK economy. The government was reportedly encouraging UK companies to set up in Europe to avoid trade disruption, which would inflict companies with yet more costs and take capital away from the country. And with fears of a double-dip recession due to Brexit on top of the already fragile economy due to repeated lockdowns, it is clear that the economy is suffering. Many have been prepared, but for those that haven’t and that may be in the midst of Brexit-induced disruption, how can a smooth declaration process be achieved in order to reduce issues at the border and prevent further economic loss? Creating suitable borders For organisations importing a large number of items, the entire customs process can be significantly accelerated by implementing an ETSF (External Temporary Storage Facility) located at your own business’ site, away from the port. Goods arriving into the UK can be moved to your site (e.g. a business’ premises or distribution centre), where the customs formalities can be managed electronically. Realising post-Brexit efficiencies with streamlined customs clearances Pol Sweeney, VP Sales and Country Manager UK, Descartes