With 5.5 months left before the transition period comes to an end on 31 December 2020, the UK Government is advising that businesses need to act now to get ready for new rules that will come into force from 1 January 2021.

One issue of specific interest to the leisure vehicle sector will be the import tariffs.  Follow this link for information updated by Government on 29 June:

• The process for importing goods from the EU from January 2021 is given at step 2, and then step 4 outlines any changes in duty payable.
• The commodity code will vary according to the product – 8703 is the code for motor vehicles including motorhomes (motor caravans).

As detailed discussions and trade agreements between the UK and the EU are still underway – thanks to COVID-19 – the process and rates may well change in the next five months.

The Business Energy and Industry Strategy Department (BEIS) publishes a regular updates and a Transition Bulletin – see www.gov.uk/transition

Government has launched a major new Transition public information campaign called “The UK’s new start: let’s get going” to give everyone the facts that they will need to be ready for 1 January 2021. A straightforward checker tool at www.gov.uk/transition will quickly identify the specific steps any business or individual needs to take. 

In addition, the government has also announced:

• Controls will be placed on the movement of goods between Great Britain and the EU, with new border controls being introduced in three stages up until 1 July 2021. Details can be found in the Border Operating Model.
• Further details on the new points-based immigration system from 1 January 2021 can be found here.