After months of preparation for a no-deal Brexit, all the efforts might seem meaningless. 2020 seems to be about preparations for the changes – again.
After 31 January 2020, there will be a transition period until the end of 2020, while the UK and EU negotiate additional arrangements. The current rules on trade, transportation, and business for the UK and EU will continue to apply during the transition period. What changes? Basically nothing.
Still, the British government highly recommends starting preparing for 2021, the time after the transition period.
What you can do
- Get an EORI number
EORI stands for “Economic Operators Registration and Identification number”. Businesses and people wishing to trade must use the EORI number as an identification number in all customs procedures when exchanging information with Customs administrations. The EORI number has a country code of the issuing Member State, and it is followed by a code or number that is unique in the EU.
To get an EORI number, you must apply for one at the customs authorities of the EU country in which the business was established.
If you already have an EORI number, you don’t have to change that – it is valid and should stay so during and after the transition period as well.
- Check if your driver needs an International Driving Card
After Brexit, drivers from EU and EEA countries will not need to carry an IDP when visiting the UK. But British drivers will need an International Driving Card when visiting one or more EU countries (just as they have always needed it). Check out the British government’s website for the list of countries and applicable documents.
What doesn’t change in 2020
- Customs regulation and processes
- Tachograph regulations
- Cabotage and cross-trade rights and obligations
- CMR documents and measures
- ID cards, passports, driving licenses and health cards
- Vehicle insurance
At the moment, it is absolutely unclear what kind of agreements about trading and transporting rules, certificates and requirements will apply from 1 January 2021. The EU and the British government should work out these deals during the course of 2020.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons