Make UK broker service aims to ease customs headaches
22 Mar 2021
UK manufacturing firms facing complex post-Brexit customs declarations are in line to benefit from the new brokerage service launched this month by Make UK.
Working in partnership with certification company SGS, the trade association will provide guidance for companies seeking to import to and export from the European Union.
Make UK said businesses have struggled to find customs agents to handle the task. It says that 97% of UK manufacturers who export or import do so to the EU.
For decades previously, it had been unnecessary to complete EU customs declarations while the UK was part of the Single Market and Customs Union. Since the start of 2021, shipments to and from the UK have required declarations, adding a new obstacle to goods reaching destinations on time.
“Getting these forms right will make the difference between costly delays and the potential of goods being turned back at the border, and goods flowing smoothly to customers across Europe and beyond,”said director of EU Affairs at Make UK Fergus McReynolds.
SSG senior sales manager Mark Andrews said his firm had wide experience of helping thousands of companies ranging from SMEs to multinationals ensure compliance with the new customs rules and procedures.
“Getting this right means companies are able to honour their contracts with EU customers. We are delighted to be able to offer this service to Make UK members and look forward to working with them in the coming weeks and months,” he commented.
“The trade agreement between the UK and EU does present challenges, not least the bureaucracy involved in ensuring goods pass smoothly from seller to buyer.”
