Since Brexit, moving goods between Great Britain (GB) and Northern Ireland (NI) has become more complex. The introduction of the Irish Sea Border and associated regulations has led many businesses to stop trading with Northern Ireland, while others are seeking alternative solutions from mainland Europe. However, there is a solution, and at SJ Henderson Fulfillment, we’re here to guide you through the process.
My name is Stephen Henderson, and I’m the CEO and founder of SJ Henderson Fulfillment. In this post, I’ll provide key insights into how you can continue moving goods from GB to NI despite the post-Brexit challenges.
The primary hurdle when moving goods from GB to NI is the need for a customs declaration. This requirement has made many businesses reluctant to engage in trade with Northern Ireland. However, a customs declaration is manageable, and with the right approach, we can help ensure that your goods are moved smoothly and efficiently.
To facilitate this process, a service called the Trader Support Service (TSS) can assist with filing the necessary ENS (Entry Summary) declaration. Once the goods have moved, a Supplementary Declaration must be made within 30 days, detailing important information about the shipment, including:
Once this declaration is submitted, HMRC will inform you if any duties are payable. If no duties are required, the goods can move freely. This may sound complicated, but it’s a process we handle regularly for our clients at SJ Henderson Fulfillment, and we’re ready to assist you.
Customs duties depend on the commodity code of the goods. You can easily check the duties applicable to your product using the Northern Ireland Commodity Code Checker. Simply enter the code for your product, and the tool will display any duties you need to pay.
No payment is required if the table shows 0% under third country duty. However, if a percentage is listed (e.g., 4%), that rate will be applied to the value of your goods. For example, if your goods are worth £1,000 and the duty rate is 4%, the duty payable will be £40.
There are cases where goods can move from GB to NI without paying duties. Under the Windsor Framework (formerly the Northern Ireland Protocol), goods manufactured in Great Britain (England, Scotland, or Wales) can move to Northern Ireland duty-free if you can prove their origin.
Another way to avoid duties is if the goods are intended to remain in Northern Ireland. From September 30, 2024, companies utilising a UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) number will be able to import goods into Northern Ireland without declarations or duties. This significant development simplifies the business process and fosters greater cooperation between GB and NI.
At SJ Henderson Fulfillment, we deal with these regulations and processes every week, ensuring our clients can move goods smoothly across the Irish Sea. Whether you need guidance on how to handle customs declarations yourself or prefer to leave the entire process in our hands, we can help make the Irish Sea Border an opportunity rather than an obstacle.
Brexit may have changed the landscape, but your business can continue to thrive through Northern Ireland with the right approach. Get in touch with us today, and let us take care of the complexities so you can focus on growing your business.
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Call or email Stephen today and he will get back to you with a quote.
