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Post-Brexit Trading Routes

Explore the different trading scenarios and their specific requirements.

Ireland to UK - Export

Customs Declarations

Required

Full customs procedures now apply for all goods

VAT Zero-Rating

0%

Export goods to UK are zero-rated for VAT

Rules of Origin

Required

Preferential tariffs under Trade and Cooperation Agreement

Export Documentation

Required

Commercial invoices, packing lists, transport documents

VAT Changes Post-Brexit

Key VAT rule changes affecting Ireland-UK trade.

Before Brexit

EU Single Market

  • • Zero-rated intra-EU supplies
  • • No customs procedures
  • • EC Sales Lists only
  • • Free movement of goods

Simple Compliance

  • • VAT number validation
  • • Standard EU procedures
  • • No border delays
  • • Unified VAT system

After Brexit

Third Country Rules

  • • Full export/import procedures
  • • Customs declarations required
  • • Import VAT on UK goods
  • • Border controls and delays

Complex Compliance

  • • Multiple documentation required
  • • Rules of origin certificates
  • • Separate UK VAT registration
  • • Dual compliance systems

Northern Ireland Protocol Benefits

Special arrangements for Northern Ireland businesses and traders.

Dual Market Access

Northern Ireland businesses enjoy unique access to both UK and EU markets with minimal barriers.

EU Market Access

  • • Continued EU single market rules
  • • No customs for Ireland-NI trade
  • • EU VAT rules apply
  • • Free movement to Ireland

UK Market Access

  • • Part of UK customs territory
  • • UK internal market access
  • • Qualifying supplier relief
  • • UK VAT number accepted

VAT Simplifications

EU VAT rules continue to apply for goods in Northern Ireland
No VAT on goods moving from Ireland to Northern Ireland
Standard EU distance selling thresholds apply
XI VAT numbers valid for EU transactions

Customs & Documentation Requirements

Essential documentation for Ireland-UK trade post-Brexit.

Export Documentation

Mandatory Documents

  • • Export customs declaration
  • • Commercial invoice
  • • Packing list
  • • Transport documents

Preferential Trade

  • • Rules of origin certificate
  • • Statement on origin
  • • Supplier declarations
  • • REX registration

Additional Requirements

  • • Export licenses (controlled goods)
  • • Health certificates (food)
  • • Safety conformity marks
  • • Insurance documentation

Import Procedures

Import Declarations

  • • Import customs declaration
  • • C88 or electronic equivalent
  • • Commodity code classification
  • • Value declaration

Tax & Duty Payments

  • • Import VAT (23% standard rate)
  • • Customs duties (where applicable)
  • • Excise duties (alcohol, tobacco)
  • • Anti-dumping duties

Facilitations Available

  • • Postponed accounting for VAT
  • • Duty deferment accounts
  • • Simplified procedures
  • • Authorized Economic Operator (AEO)

Brexit Trading Compliance Checklist

Essential steps for Ireland-UK trade compliance post-Brexit.

Business Setup Requirements

Registration & Licensing

  • EORI number registration
  • UK VAT registration (if required)
  • Customs intermediary appointment
  • AEO status consideration

Systems & Processes

  • Customs declaration software
  • Origin documentation system
  • Commodity code database
  • Staff training on procedures

Ongoing Compliance

1

Monitor Regulatory Changes

Stay updated on evolving Brexit trade arrangements and rule changes

2

Maintain Documentation

Keep complete records of all cross-border transactions and declarations

3

Review Supply Chains

Regularly assess supply chain efficiency and cost impacts of new procedures

Navigate Brexit Trading Complexity

Don't let Brexit rules slow down your business. Get expert support for Ireland-UK trade compliance and VAT optimization.

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