Government delays 30 September Windsor Framework deadline for parcels – Logistics UK responds

In response to the government announcement of a delay to customs and parcel changes that were set to come into effect from 30 September under the Windsor Framework, Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade at business group Logistics UK says the logistics industry is relieved that this deadline is extended:

“The movement of parcels and implementation of customs systems for goods moving to and from Northern Ireland is a complex issue, requiring many new processes to be put in place, and several events including the General Election and pre-election period have had a significant impact on the ability of government to communicate with and advise industry in a timely manner. Despite best efforts, it was practically impossible for logistics businesses to be ready to meet the 30 September deadline which is why Logistics UK pressed government for this delay. It is heartening to see that the concerns of logistics businesses have been taken into account by the government and this announcement is welcome.

“However, for this delay to be productive, we need to see a step change in the government’s communication with, and support to, traders and hauliers moving goods from GB to Northern Ireland.”

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods. For more information about the organisation and its work, please get in touch – here.