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So far so good for 2022, says Davies Turner

[ January 11, 2022   //   ]

The start to the New Year and introduction of normal import controls from the EU has proved to be less chaotic than predicted, says freight forwarder Davies Turner.

The forwarder, which operates a comprehensive network of pan-European trailer services to and from the UK, reports that whilst it is early days in terms of truck movements, freight is flowing and it has already handled hundreds of trucks under the new Goods Vehicle Movement System (GVMS) with declarations made without issue. A number of Davies Turner’s partners and hauliers are successfully engaging with the system.
Davies Turner reports that there have  been some teething problems with GVMS and that trade is generally slower at the start of the year. However, it adds that having its own inland customs-bonded depots is an advantage and should drastically cut the risk of problems, or the need for one of its trucks to report to a border inspection point.
Head of European Network, Danny Southby, said:  “Although we typically see a fairly quiet start to the year in terms of traffic, traders appear to be following the new rules and the systems seem to be working.
“This time last year, when new rules for exports to the EU came in, there were considerable problems. This year, so far, it is minor frustrations and a little confusion in terms of GVMS. It’s a breeze compared with January 2021.”
Davies Turner says it had had a couple of enquiries from EU-based food suppliers that are having problems with their usual transport provider, which indicates that some hauliers might be shying away from carrying foodstuffs.
However, the forwarder has decided not to accept any new foodstuffs business, or products of animal origin, until it is comfortable with the new rules, although it continues to serve existing clients.
Danny Southby adds: “Under the new border regime, GVMS will play an important role in facilitating the fast movement of goods between the EU and Britain, but traders need to keep abreast of HMRC notices about how to use it correctly, as well as the guidance that we are providing.”

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