GB-NI parcel & freight arrangements delayed until May

The RHA has today received official confirmation from HMRC that there will be a further delay to the new Windsor Framework arrangements for the movement of goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland by parcels or freight. This will now take effect from 1 May 2025.

Commenting on this, RHA Managing Director, Richard Smith said:

"We continue to call on HMRC to urgently resolve a range of operational issues with the Trader Support Service. Today’s announcement is welcome and allows for more time to address these issues.
 
This additional time should be used wisely as many businesses still need clarity and certainty on what's expected of them. When real-time information is communicated clearly, operators will be much better equipped to adapt to new processes. As things stand, there's work to do.

"We are urging Ministers to move towards addressing the much broader issues of managing the potential divergence that's likely to develop over time. Without concentrated and coordinated focus and action by both the UK Government and the EU, there’s a real danger that the cumulative burden of the Windsor Framework and further divergence between the UK and the EU will leave consumers and businesses operating in Northern Ireland paying the price.

"We’ll continue to be a voice for our key sector, and provide industry feedback when engaging with Government, business leaders and other key stakeholders on these matters. At all times we’re concerned with ensuring that the GB-NI supply chain is resilient and fluid."