Businesses importing directly from the UK need to prepare for any new customs arrangements and regulatory checks  the Government has warned.

And measures have been put in place to postpone VAT accounting to reduce the impact of new arrangements on businesses’ cash flow.

And any firm that imports, exports or moves goods and materials from or through Britain need to register with Revenue for a customs number (EORI number). EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification.

This applies irrespective of the volume or value of trade undertaken.

And all supply chains should be reviewed where business relies on products brought in from Britain through a distributor.

Valid

Products or services certified to EU conformity by a UK body may no longer be valid in a no-deal scenario. Those affected should check on certification and licensing, the government has said.

Likewise, businesses are advised to monitor any changes that British authorities may make over time to their regulatory requirements.

Businesses involved in pre-declarations and health and safety checks for certain categories of goods (including animal or animal products, plants, plant products and wood packaging), and certain food products will be particularly affected.

Cash flow

Businesses are also being warned to plan in terms of cash flow.

There will be new procedures for the payment of customs and excise duties or VAT due on imports from third countries, including Britain in the event of a no deal scenario.

Goods transported using wood packaging or pallets must be compliant with International Standard for Phytosanitary Measure No 15 (ISPM15).