Prepare For Brexit
If the UK crashes out of Europe in October, what should online sellers be considering in preparation?
Some of the key issues to consider are EORI numbers and CN22 labels.
EORI numbers are Economic Operator Registration and Identification Numbers which are necessary for non-EU businesses who move goods into and out of the EU. The current advice by HMRC is to apply for one just in case through this website: https://www.gov.uk/eori
If you have a VAT number then you probably already have one – usually for VAT registered UK companies your EORI Number will be GB followed by your VAT number with three zeros on the end e.g. GBXXXXXXXXX000.
HMRC seem to believe that even if we crash out then existing EORI numbers will continue to be valid, although Finnish Customs at least are stating that they will expire and require renewing. It’s a relatively easy number to get, and usually takes 3 days – however that time could dramatically increase if a significant number of businesses all apply at once. If EORI numbers issued in the UK do expire, then everyone will have to reapply in the first EU country they have to make a customs declaration in.
CN22 labels are the customs declarations which at the moment are only required for goods sent to countries outside the EU. In the event of a no deal Brexit, sellers may need to complete a CN22 for every parcel sent to the EU as well. Royal Mail is unclear whether or not this will be required but be prepared to start attaching a CN22 on mail to EU if it looks likely that we’ll be leaving in a no deal situation.
CN22 labels are available free from Post Offices or you can register to have them delivered for free here: https://www.royalmail.com/business/services/order-mail-supplies-onlineMore information on Brexit business requirements here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/importing-exporting-and-transporting-products-or-goods-after-brexit