Bifa warns UK shippers to brace for customs switchover

A NEW UK customs system risks chaos for importers, exporters and forwarders if they fail to embrace the Single Administrative Document (SAD-H) before the end of January, according to the British International Freight Association (Bifa).

Freight companies will be refused entries in old data format should they fail to adopt the new codes and formats of entries.

Said Bifa CEO Peter Quantrill: "We agree with those Bifa members who opted to become early adopters of this new data format for customs declarations and who advise that the sooner the switch, the better.

"It would seem that the hoped-for gradual migration over the three months transition period since last October could turn into more of a 'big bang' scenario, unless those who have yet to begin making customs declarations in the new format switch across quickly," Mr Quantrill said.