Current News

Drewry predicts increased M&A activity in container sector

Drewry says that container shipping lines that are financially vulnerable could be forced into mergers and acquisitions due to the extra costs associated with the new low-sulphur fuel law. It queries how that might affect competition on key trades.

Heathrow reveals shortlist sites for logistics hubs in the running to deliver expansion project

Heathrow has today announced the names and locations of the 18 shortlisted sites that remain in the running to help deliver the expanded airport signalling the project has reached a new and significant milestone on its path to delivery.

BIFA Young Forwarder Network goes on tour

Following the successful launch of its Young Forwarder Network (YFN), the British International Freight Association (BIFA), says it will now commence a programme of regional meetings across the UK.

Latest EU Exit Information 29 March 2019

HMRC yesterday circulated a summary of the UK’s preparedness for Brexit in the event of a “No Deal” scenario which we have been requested to distribute to Members. In particular please note that information as to where to find information on an ongoing basis.

DEFRA guidance on CITES

One of the consequences of Brexit will be that freight forwarders and customs agents will become involved in regimes that they have not previously been affected by.

Ongoing evaluation of Consortia BER

On 20 March, the European Shippers’ Council (ESC) held its annual Maritime Day at the Port of Rotterdam, where the ongoing evaluation of the EU Consortia Block Exemption Regulation (BER) was among the major topics discussed.

New ITF report: Data for evaluating Consortia BER

The International Transport Forum (ITF) published a new report entitled “Container Shipping in Europe: Data for the Evaluation of the EU Consortia Block Exemption Regulation (BER).”

Freight association welcomes HMRC decision to extend Transitional Simplified Procedures

Commenting on the recent announcement by HMRC on Transitional Simplified Procedures (TSP) for Customs in the event of a no-deal Brexit, Robert Keen, Director General of the British International Freight Association, says:

Transitional Simplified Procedures - TSP

HMRC has today set out an extension of Transitional Simplified Procedures (TSP) which includes:

Updated HMRC Ro-Ro Information Pack

The Government’s priority is still to leave the EU with a deal that works for citizens and businesses, as laid out in The Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration. As a responsible Government, planning is underway for all scenarios, including a no-deal scenario.