Windsor Framework – Hauliers seeking clarity on customs processes

The RHA is calling on the Government to meet with hauliers to set out how Windsor Framework customs and SPS processes would work.

The call comes amid industry concern about the lack of clarity on what the process would be for moving goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

RHA members are looking for guidance on key issues including:

Trusted Trader Scheme (TSS)

Green and Red lanes;

Goods moving from or through Northern Ireland to Great Britain

Many firms feel the ‘Green Lane’ is complicated and burdensome – and primarily designed for moving retail goods, and goods for small companies, both with end consumption in Northern Ireland.

The ‘Red Lane’ appears to be bureaucratic with all goods subject to full customs and border controls up front – including goods destined for Northern Ireland.

Members say it’s not clear how the process for moving goods from the EU to Great Britain via Northern Ireland would be different for goods from Northern Ireland to Great Britain.

The RHA is also calling for a haulier-focused forum to improve communication and share information.

Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said:

“We’ve consulted with our members and studied the practical workings of the Windsor Framework on our sector and the Northern Ireland economy.

“Our members are increasingly concerned that it's still not clear how the arrangements would reduce bureaucracy and work in real-time conditions.

“We urge ministers to work with us and other stakeholders to make new arrangements as fluid as possible to protect our supply chains.”

The RHA, the Association of Pallet Networks and the British Association of Removers co-signed a letter to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris.