Removing obstacles to doing business internationally both at the border and on the roads.
We welcome the postponement of the introduction of border controls by the UK on EU goods. This will prevent increased compliance costs and border delays, ensuring that EU goods remain accessible and competitive on the UK market.
The UK Government intends to publish a new Target Operating Model, delaying the introduction of the remaining import controls until the end of 2023.
Hauliers must take the steps outlined in the Border Operating Model which has been updated to reflect the revised timetable for the introduction of the next stage of UK import requirements, as well as including additional detail on policies and processes.
We are working with Government officials to ensure that there is full consultation with the industry on the practicalities of implementing the new systems in regard to freight forwarding as well as document flows.
RHA will keep our members informed of the status of publication of the new UK Target Operating Model including future compliance requirements, expected as of the end of 2023.
Port of Dover delays
The M20 – Dover Straits route is Great Britain’s most important corridor for international road freight. It accounts for around 3.6 million lorry movements per year, 55% of the market.
It is the main corridor for fresh food to move between the UK and continental Europe and is the most important route for time sensitive manufacturing components.
The RHA is calling for decisive action to create a permanent contingency site for handling lorries for use when there is disruption crossing the channel. The site should be used and managed by the police and highway authorities to control and direct the flow of lorries travelling across the Dover Straits.
Our key asks on international are:
- Ensure Government preparation for Entry Exit System introduction
- Secure an industry supported solution to the Northern Ireland Protocol
- Digitalisation of border controls