You may have heard recently that there have been some concerns about how Brexit is going to affect the logistics industry and the border alongside a possible second spike of Covid-19.
So much so, that eight logistics organisations have written to Cabinet ministers to make their fears of severe disruptions to the supply chain known. These organisations include:
- Road Haulage Association
- Logistics UK
- UK Warehousing Association
- The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport
- Cold Chain Federation
- British Association of Removers
- British International Freight Association
- British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA)
A free-flowing, uninterrupted supply chain has been essential during this pandemic, what’s going to happen when the transition occurs between the UK-EU supply chain?
What are the Logistics Industry’s Demands?
An urgent roundtable meeting with Mr Gove, Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps is being demanded to discuss the UK’s Brexit border preparations. There are concerns over “significant gaps” that are visible in these preparations which need to be addressed, including IT systems and physical border infrastructure.
They are requesting to work together collectively with the Government to tackle these issues and to ensure there is as little disruption to UK business and the supply chain as possible. It has been so heavily relied upon during this difficult year that any interruption is non-negotiable.
What Issues are the Logistics Industry Referring to?
The issues that have been raised by these eight organisations are technological, like the untested IT systems and the SmartFreight App. This technology will be trusted upon to ensure goods are flowing functionally to and from across the border.
Also, another concern is for the lack of customs agents and clear processes for tacking the red tap traders will face. More details regarding regulations for exporting from Great Britain and importing to Great Britain in 2021 can be found on the government website.
With just under three months to go before these new border controls are implemented, it is believed that government is taking too much time to prepare. The logistics industry needs preparations to be final and ready to go in order for operations to be effective, especially during a pandemic.
What are the Government’s Plans Moving Forward?
Fortunately, the cabinet ministers have agreed to a roundtable meeting with the haulage organisations where discussions will be had addressing these concerns. They will continue to work closely with the industry as the move towards the transition period.
With plans to invest in jobs, infrastructure and technology at the border and offering support to boost the capacity of the customs intermediary sector, this could hopefully be the push the logistics industry needs to ensure there are no interruptions.
The supply chain has worked harder than ever before during Covid-19 and is so heavily relied upon that disruptions are not permitted. Our industry will always work together to help arrive at the best solution for our customers and the public, to deliver goods efficiently and effectively.
If you have any further questions or concerns about the upcoming Brexit customs and border regulations contact us today.
