Another Brexit measure was announced in the run-up to the UK split with the EU on 31 October. P&O Ferrymasters has partnered up with SGS Maco, securing easy and fluid customs declarations for goods to and from the UK in the event of a no-deal scenario.

If the UK leaves the EU without a deal end of this month, goods that previously enjoyed free-market movement may have to be declared to customs. The partnership with the customs service provider allows for continuity and fluidity for those making use of P&O Ferrymasters’ connections.

The Netherlands and Belgium

The two companies facilitate customs declarations at ports in the Netherlands and Belgium and offer fiscal representation services for companies transporting goods throughout the European Union. The customs declaration services will be organised in the United Kingdom by P&O Ferrymasters and SGS Maco staff, and through a partner in Ireland.

Mark Timmermans, Trailer Director at P&O Ferrymasters said: “This partnership allows us to offer a comprehensive declaration package to clients as part of our door to door transport operation. Our account managers will soon contact our customers to offer this service to them”.

Necessary service

Etienne Mulders, Managing Director at SGS Maco, added: “Brexit poses a great challenge for UK-EU traders. SGS Maco believes a joint effort by logistics service providers, customs agents and traders is necessary to ensure smooth post-Brexit trade.”

P&O Ferrymasters serves 20 strategic locations in 13 countries across the continent, operating integrated road, rail and sea links via a fleet of more than 5,000 trailers and containers. The company is part of P&O Ferries, which sails on eight major routes between Britain, France, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Holland and Belgium.