Customs: Still the Biggest Barrier for UK Exporters
A major new survey from the British Chambers of Commerce Insights Unit, released during International Trade Week a few weeks ago, highlights the ongoing challenges facing UK businesses in the global trading environment. With over 1,300 businesses surveyed, the findings underscore a persistent issue: customs procedures remain the top barrier to exporting, cited by 45% of respondents.
What’s Holding UK Businesses Back?
The survey paints a clear picture of the hurdles UK businesses face when attempting to export:
1. Customs Procedures Dominate:
▪For the second year running, customs procedures and documentation are the biggest perceived barriers to trade, with 45% of businesses identifying them as a challenge.
▪Other significant barriers include export documentation (39%), regulations and standards (35%), and tariffs (33%).
2. Geopolitical Events Taking a Toll:
▪40% of companies report significant impacts from geopolitical events in the last year, such as the war in Ukraine, Brexit-related changes, and the ongoing Gaza conflict. These challenges contribute to increased energy costs and shipping delays.
3. Low Awareness of Incoming Trade Changes:
▪Alarmingly, 65% of exporters are unaware of the Border Target Operating Model.
▪Over half of respondents (53%) have no knowledge of the UK joining the CPTPP in December.
▪52% of firms are unaware of the need for safety and security certificates for EU imports.
Optimism Amidst Challenges
Despite these barriers, there is some cause for optimism:
▪37% of exporters anticipate an increase in export business over the next year.
▪Manufacturers are particularly positive, showing the strongest growth expectations.
▪However, this optimism is tempered by the fact that 91% of non-exporters do not plan to start exporting.
What Needs to Change?
When asked what would encourage more businesses to export, firms pointed to the following:
▪Simplify trade regulations and reduce bureaucracy.
▪Improve access to the EU market.
▪Provide greater export support.
As William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, noted:
“Customs procedures remain a significant stumbling block to trade for businesses. We need roadblocks lifted to allow more companies to offer their goods and services on the global stage. Businesses also need to see a clear timetable for further trade digitalisation which will help reduce costs and border friction.”
ChannelPorts: Here to Help
At ChannelPorts, we understand the frustration that customs procedures and regulatory changes bring to UK businesses. With over 50 years of expertise, we’ve seen it all—and we know how to help you navigate these challenges.
Our CustomsPro solution is designed to simplify customs clearance, cutting through the complexity to make exporting as seamless as possible. Whether you’re dealing with perishable goods, food and drink, industrial components or materials with complex documentation, CustomsPro can handle it all.
✅24/7 On-Call Experts: Our dedicated team is available around the clock to support you with any issue, large or small.
✅Digital Efficiency: CustomsPro automates processes, reducing the time and cost of customs clearance.
✅Tailored Support: Whether you’re an experienced exporter or new to international trade, we provide the guidance you need to succeed.
Start Preparing Today
While the trading environment remains challenging, solutions like CustomsPro can help lift the burden of customs clearance, allowing your business to focus on growth. Let’s work together to make exporting easier and more efficient—because successful exporting businesses are crucial to a thriving UK economy.
Ready to simplify your customs processes? Contact the ChannelPorts team today and discover how we can help.