You may have seen reports that more than 100,000 civil service members of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union will be going on strike on Wednesday 15 March 2023. Following a nationwide ballot in February, HMRC members of 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.
The industrial action is likely to impact the movement of goods through UK ports, airports and Inland Border Facilities on 15 March 2023, as well as those travelling to the UK from UK Border controls in Calais, Dunkirk and Coquelles in Northern France.
Customers 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 16 March 2023 as business returns to normal.
What you can do
If you are able to move goods outside of this period, then we would advise that you do so.
If you cannot delay your movements then please be aware that the industrial action could lead to disruption and delays at ports and Inland Border Facilities (IBF). You should be prepared for these delays and check with your operator before starting your 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 £1,500/1,000kg which does not contain licensed items, the simplest way to declare your goods is through 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.
If you need support with your international operations, click here, or email our International Trade Centre Manager, Allison Tomlinson.
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