BIFA has received a message regarding the anticipated impacts of Industrial Action next week by the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union next week.
Following a nationwide ballot in February, HMRC members of Public and Commercial Services (PCS) agreed to industrial action and therefore some HMRC staff will be taking part. The action will also include UK-based Home Office members, including Border Force staff.
This is likely to impact the movement of goods through UK ports, airports and Inland Border Facilities on 15 March, as well as those travelling to the UK from UK Border controls in Calais, Dunkirk and Coquelles in Northern France.
You may experience delays when contacting the National Clearance Hub (NCH) and Customs & International Trade (CIT) Helpline. There may also be some disruption on the morning of March 16th as business returns to normal.
What you can do:
If you are able to move goods outside of this period, then you are advised to do so.
If you cannot delay the movements then please be aware that the industrial action could lead to disruption and delays at ports and Inland Border Facilities (IBFs). You should be prepared for these delays and check with your operator before starting their movement.
You can also check IBF site availability online.
If you are planning to carry merchandise in baggage or more than £10,000 in cash and need to make a declaration:
For merchandise in baggage under £1500/1000kg which does not contain licensed items, the simplest way to declare your goods is though the simplified online declaration form.
The simplest way to declare large amounts of cash is also online, following this guidance. If you cannot use the online service, the red point service at the port or airport will be operational during this period but it is possible you will experience some delays.
