Customs processes for trade between the UK and the EU are a key priority. But operating cost-effectively now also depends on mastering logistics and compliance.
How is your business coping with EU and UK trade across borders since January? Well versed importers and exporters know that smooth cross-border trade relies on integrated import and export procedures. But they are also aware that customs management is not an isolated area in supply chain management. Cross-border supply chain efficiency goes far beyond customs clearances at all involved borders.
On-time deliveries following significant changes such as Brexit depend on smooth end-to-end logistics from procurement to fulfillment. This involves customs procedures, of course, but also logistics processes and trade compliance procedures. And the better all these areas of your supply chain are integrated, the more cost-effective your business can operate.
If you manage import and export declarations yourself, your software will deliver best value when you integrate it into your current IT landscape. This avoids repetitive or manual data entries. And if you work with customs brokers, your costs will be significantly lower if you work with an integrated platform that allows you to easily exchange data and documents with them.
Read more about your customs strategy options
After the release of the new Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) between the UK and the EU, it has become clear that traders need to do much more than just cater for efficient import and export declaration procedures. To achieve zero tariffs for your cross-border trade, you need to work with rules of origin, assure accurate product classification, and manage supplier’s declarations.
Read more about UK and EU requirements under the new TCA
Working with external service providers goes beyond customs, of course: Your collaboration with carriers and transport partners also relies on integration. Better control, transparency, speed, and flexibility is the result of integrated logistics collaboration – from automated shipping documents and label printing to switching carriers without impacts on operations.
Read more about Brexit impacts on shipping operations
And not to forget about trade compliance management – from business partner screening to export control compliance. Brexit has also resulted in a new UK sanctions regime that is in effect since January 1, 2021. It affects your processes from quotations to deliveries and needs to be integrated into existing internal compliance programs.
Which customs, logistics, and compliance strategies are right for your business depends on your individual processes and organizational structure. There isn't just one way to get things right. But whichever strategy you have chosen, close monitoring of supply chain cost developments is vital now that Brexit is in effect. In fact, such reviews should take place frequently and as part of your continuous improvement cycle.
When have you planned your next financial and operational review? Please ensure to include:
Powerful software solutions are key drivers of efficient supply chains in all markets across the globe. Changes under Brexit truly affect all areas of UK and EU supply chains – from customs to logistics and trade compliance. Automation and integration of involved processes, systems, and partners delivers great benefits – operationally and financially.
Find out more about AEB's solutions for all areas in the links below and contact us to learn how they can support your business.
Supply Chain and Logistics Software
Trade Compliance Management Software
