Brexit - support for businesses
If you import or export goods to and from the European Union then you need to get ready for changes.
The latest government guidance to support businesses and the public, can be found at Gov.uk: Brexit guidance.
It provides advice on importing and exporting goods to and from the EU, moving goods to and from Northern Ireland and travelling, living and working in the EU.
The online questionnaire at Gov.uk: Brexit guidance will help you identify what you need to do for the type of goods you import or export.
Imports and exports
For businesses that import and export goods and services make sure:
- your business has an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number. See Gov.uk: get an EORI number for further information.
- the EU business you are selling to has the required paperwork to receive your goods. Find the UK Trade tariffs for imported goods at Gov.uk: Check UK trade tariffs. You might want to get someone to help you with the customs paperwork on your behalf.
- keep your goods moving if you Gov.uk: transport goods out of the UK by road: step by step
- you have the new certification required for exporting animals and animal goods from GOV.UK. You will also need to use specific ports to move them
Product safety
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has published guidance to help businesses comply with changed regulations, including issues such as the use of the UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) marking.
Gov.uk: UK product safety and metrology
Transport
Hauliers should make sure to have the correct driver, vehicle licences and permits for driving in the EU, along with the correct documentation for the goods you're carrying across EU borders. See Gov.uk: Check how to import and export for further information.
Workforce
Employees practicing and serving clients in the EU may need to have their professional qualifications accredited and may have extra travel requirements. See the following for further information:
- Gov.uk: Visit Eu, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein
- Gov.uk: Get your EU professional qualification recognised in the UK
Intellectual property protection
The International Property Office has published guidance on trademarks, design, patents right law and IP rights after Brexit. See Gov.uk: intellectual property and the transition period.
Data protection
For information on what action you need to take regarding data protection and data flows with the EU/EEA after the end of the transition period see Gov.uk: Using personal data in your business or other organisation.
UK Government advice
Information from the UK government is available at:
- Gov.uk: guidance and regulation
- Gov.uk: Brexit news and communications
- Gov.uk: export goods from the UK: step by step
- Gov.uk: prepare to export goods from Great Britain to the EU from 1 January 2021
- Gov.uk: Webinars for organisations that trade with the EU
- Gov.uk: The border operating model
National advice and support
There is also extensive information and support available from national organisations:
- Health and Safety Executive: Brexit guidance
- Food Standards Agency: guidance on health and identification marks that applies from 1 January 2021
- Department for International Trade
- Department of Trade and Industry: export opportunities
- Department for International Trade: export academy
- Business Companion: Trading standards law explained
- Federation of Small Businesses: the UK transition
- The Institute of Directors: Navigating Brexit for business
- The Manufacturers Organisation: Support for UK manufacturers as the UK leaves the EU
- Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy: Sign up for updates
Local advice and support
You can also contact business support providers for advice too
