ASM prepares UK businesses for post-Brexit Customs changes

Agency Sector Management (ASM) is preparing hundreds of UK companies for major changes in the Customs landscape this year as the volume of system changes caused by Brexit ramps up.

In addition to adapting to HMRC’s new Customs Declaration Service (CDS), the final deadline for which is 4th June, importers and exporters will be faced with a barrage of Customs system changes in the second half of 2024, including new safety and security requirements and The Windsor Framework.

To ensure businesses are fully supported in complying with incoming regulations, ASM has expanded its team by 19% in 2024, with customer service and tech hires to guide customers through procedural modifications and deliver the software needed.

ASM has also delivered a series of successful webinars designed to help businesses prepare for upcoming changes, including the transition to CDS and the move to the New Computerised Transit System (NCTS)5.

“The upgrade to NCTS 5 is the latest in a long list of customs changes that will impact importers and exporters in 2024, and as with any system change, the key is to be well-informed,” said Sharon Greer, ASM General Manager.

“We can make the software updates, but a key part of our role is also helping businesses understand the changes, what they need to do to comply, and how new rules and regulations will impact their operations.”

Over 1,000 traders have attended ASM’s webinars in the first half of the year, including 225 who attended the most recent session on the switch to NCTS 5, due to take effect on 1st July 2024.

NCTS 5 is used in countries participating in the Common Transit Convention (CTC) and simplifies the process of moving goods into or through EU Member States, a process that has become more complicated since the UK’s exit from the EU customs Union.

“With so many changes on the horizon, this year will be particularly challenging for anyone involved in importing or exporting goods to or from the UK,” said Simon Adams, Program Manager at ASM.

“As such, companies need to work harder than ever to keep on top of shifting legislation, and our webinars and supporting resources are designed to help traders understand new rules and new systems.”