Leading Logistics Firm Warns of Increased Border Controls After Busiest Shipping Months of the Year

After relaxations in border controls were put in place earlier this year to mitigate the chaos caused by Brexit and the pandemic, logistics firms can expect much tighter controls for EU exporters after the busy festive period, warn leading industry experts.

Midland Pallet Trucks, a provider of high-quality manual handling equipment including HYPERLINK “https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com/product-category/high-lift-pallet-trucks/” pallet trucks, HYPERLINK “https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com/product-category/aerial-work-platforms/” aerial work platforms and HYPERLINK “https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com/product-category/lift-tables/” lift tables, has started to warn customers of the impending changes to border controls. This comes after months of relaxed restrictions creating a false sense of security for many in the logistics and warehousing industry.

From January 2022, customs authorities at the border will be requiring full customs declarations from any company delivering shipments from the EU. These shipments from European operators and suppliers make up a massive 85% of the traffic coming through the Dover shipping lane, so is expected to cause major disruption if supply chains aren’t prepared.

Despite the consequences of Brexit on the logistics industry being well-documented, the false sense of security has left the sector unprepared for further disruption. Many firms are also hoping for the government to change their mind about imposing these strict controls. As Midland Pallet Trucks explains, many of their customers are still yet to discuss incoming changes with their EU partners.

Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Midland Pallet Trucks says, “When the government dropped some of the border controls that were proving detrimental to our already-struggling industry, it was a real lifeline. But the government has now made it clear that they’re serious about reinforcing these controls from January 1, 2022, which could cause big problems for any company that’s not prepared.”

He continues, “We’re urging all of our customers to have talks with their supply chains now to avoid any disappointment or delays. And to anyone who’s hoping for another government U-turn, this really doesn’t seem very likely.”

With the government standing firm on the incoming border changes coming into place from the 1 January, it’s important that all companies within the sector are prepared for the new controls or face severe issues within their supply chain.