Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there still Free Trade between the UK and EU? A: Only if the goods "Originate" in the UK or EU. If you buy Chinese goods from a German warehouse and bring them to London, you will pay full UK duty.

Q: What are Rules of Origin? A: These are the laws that determine the "economic nationality" of a product. To get 0% duty under Brexit, the item must have underwent "substantial transformation" within the UK or EU.

Q: Do I need an EORI number? A: Yes. Every business importing or exporting between the UK and EU needs an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number starting with 'GB' or 'XI'.

Brexit and EU Imports: Navigating New Trade Barriers

The landscape of European trade changed fundamentally on January 1st, 2021. For decades, the English Channel was an invisible border. Today, it is one of the most strictly monitored trade zones in the world.

Understanding the TCA (Trade and Cooperation Agreement)

The UK-EU deal allows for "Zero Tariffs and Zero Quotas," but it is not automatic. Importers must explicitly claim "Preference" on their customs declaration and possess a valid "Statement on Origin" from the exporter to qualify for 0% tax.

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The Paperwork Reality

Beyond just taxes, you now face three new layers of bureaucracy: 1. Safety and Security Declarations: Required for every vehicle crossing the channel. 2. SPS Controls: Sanitary and Phytosanitary checks for any goods involving animals or plants. 3. The Windsor Framework: Specific rules for goods moving between Great Britain and Northern Ireland to ensure a "Green Lane" for trusted traders and a "Red Lane" for goods at risk of entering the EU.

Navigating these waters is significantly easier when you have the right Customs Duty Prediction Tools. For official legal updates, always consult GOV.UK or Authoritative Trade Sources.