Transporting goods out of the UK by road to or through the EU

HMRC has published a useful list to help businesses transport goods commercially when driving from the UK to or through Europe. In the short-term there will be a transition period during which all rules remain the same. The Government expects to have a trade deal in place with the EU by the end of the year.

The six points of action listed below are likely to be relevant once a trade deal with the EU is in place or in the case that negotiations falter.

1. Make sure the vehicle operator has applied for all relevant operator licences and permits.
2. Make sure the driver is eligible to drive abroad. You must also ensure the driver has a valid passport, a valid Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card and an international driving permit (IDP). An IDP will be required in some EU countries if there’s a no-deal Brexit.
3. Check the rules for the goods being carried. There are rules for transporting certain goods. The driver may need to follow set routes or stop at specific check points if they are transporting mixed loads or specific types of goods.
4. Make sure the driver has the right export documents.
5. Find out what vehicle documents the driver needs to carry.
6. Check local road rules.