*Originally published 3 November 2020. Updated 27 November 2020*
The UK is no longer a member of the European Union and, as of 1 January 2021, there will be new rules for businesses. We’ve compiled some details for you to help you prepare for Brexit, and will add to this as and when more resources or information becomes available.
Transition Checker Tool
The UK Government has set up a tool on their website which will give you personalised actions, based on the answers you select, on what you must do to prepare your business for 1 January. The questions take less than 5 minutes to answer.
The tool will direct you to the relevant advice on a number of things, such as:
- Importing materials from the EU
- Exporting materials to the EU
- Customs declarations
- Paying a tariff on imported goods
- EORI numbers to move goods in or out of the EU
- ISPM15 standards for wood packaging material (e.g. crates, pellets) moving between the UK and EU
- Whether your UK employees need permits or work visas to work in other countries
- Whether you need a licence to employ EU workers
Build UK Brexit website
The NAS is a member of Build UK, and they have set up a Brexit-specific website that is split into four sections: people, products, programme and prepare. Each section has details on what you need to know, as well as a handy checklist and actions page so you can see whether your business has everything covered off.
Materials Report by Build UK and the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Build UK and the CIPS have published a detailed report on the supply of construction materials from 1 January 2021. The overriding message from all businesses is the need for much earlier engagement across the whole supply chain, along with enhanced forecasting information to anticipate and manage supply and demand issues. The full report link can be found in the first paragraph of the key findings document linked below.
HMRC UK Customs Academy funding
Government grant funding has been offered to cover costs for any courses provided by the UK Customs Academy to help businesses prepare for Brexit. Courses include customs practice and procedure, customs compliance, customs administration, and border management.
Government webinar for construction business owners
The Government has set up an on-demand webinar for construction business owners, covering the actions that need to be taken ahead of the changes that will come into place on 1 January 2021.
Sign up to watch the webinar here.
