The Cabinet Office has confirmed that a Kent Access Permit will be mandatory for all HGVs using the Channel crossings to the European Union from the UK. The Access Permit plan includes a ‘Check an HGV’ service for hauliers to confirm if they have the correct customs documentation. The plan forms part of the wider and updated Great Britain-EU Border Operating Model which outlines import and export procedures at the end of the Brexit transition period on 1 January 2021. For logistics operations using road transport to export goods to the EU, it is the responsibility of the “trader” to provide the necessary documentation to the driver of a HGV. However, the driver who must carry and present the documentation when requested by border officials. The latest Government advice states that drivers without the correct documentation risk being stopped from boarding services departing Great Britain or on arrival at the EU port, being fined, or sent back to their point of departure. The Government has also warned of the risk of queues and delays for HGVs on roads approaching ports on Great Britain-EU routes if a large number HGVs do not have the correct documentation. If the paperwork is absent or incorrect the goods won’t be able to cross the Channel. From January 2021 traders importing standard goods, (anything from clothes to electronics), will need to prepare for submitting customs declarations and security filing. If the trader chooses to defer the customs declaration for 6 months, they will still need to keep sufficient records of imported goods and will be required to submit the customs declaration in 6 months anyway. From July 2021 traders moving all goods will have to make declarations at the point of importation and pay relevant tariffs. Operators are advised to ensure they have the systems and processes in place with traders to minimise any delays through UK and EU ports. For help and advice on being ready for Brexit checkout the Descartes Brexit Resource Centre.