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Logistics UK welcomes Entry/Exit System delay

[ October 10, 2024   //   ]

Logistics UK said on 10 October that it welcomed the reported delay to the introduction of the European Entry and Exit System (EES). The system was due to be introduced from 10 November but reports indicate this date has now been pushed back.

There were concerns that the new technology, passengers and truck drivers would be fingerprinted on entry to the EU, would cause severe backlogs at Channel ports and Eurotunnel.

Head of trade, Nichola Mallon, said: “Reports that the introduction of EES is to be delayed will be welcomed by logistics businesses,” says. “Our members have been warning for some time that if the system is rolled out on 10 November, without robust testing of IT systems and without the availability of an App to facilitate registration away from the border, then costly disruption and delays at peak passenger periods are inevitable for hauliers and GB EU trade.

“Analysis we have undertaken with independent modelling experts MDS Transmodal show that even if delays were limited to 90 minutes for the 3.35 million HGVs that passed through the Short Straits in 2023, the cost to the economy would be £400 million a year. This is a cost that the logistics industry cannot just absorb.

“While a new introduction date has yet to be confirmed by the EU, it is vital for our sector that the UK government maintains close conversation with its European counterparts to ensure that the test of Member State readiness has, at its core, the smooth flow of freight and trade across the Channel; a critical GB EU supply chain route.”

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