News

A Guide for European Exporters to Ireland

Since Brexit, customs clearance has become a critical aspect of EU-Ireland trade, adding complexity to supply chains that were previously seamless. Exporters across Europe now face new documentation requirements, customs declarations, and regulatory checks, making efficient and compliant logistics more important than ever.

At HANNON Transport, we understand these challenges and provide a fully managed customs clearance service, ensuring that goods move smoothly between Europe and Ireland with minimal delays. Our in-house customs team supports exporters at every stage, simplifying the process and ensuring compliance with post-Brexit regulations.

The Impact of Brexit on Customs Requirements for EU-Ireland Trade

Prior to Brexit, goods moved freely between Ireland and the EU without customs checks. However, since the UK’s departure from the EU, trade routes that pass through Great Britain (e.g., France to Ireland via the UK landbridge) are now subject to customs controls, tariffs, and regulatory checks.

Key Changes Affecting EU Exporters to Ireland:

• Customs Declarations – All goods moving from the EU to Ireland via the UK now require full customs documentation.
• Sanitary & Phytosanitary (SPS) Checks – Food, plants, and animal products must meet Irish and EU safety standards and may be subject to border inspections.
• Additional Costs & Delays – Misfiled paperwork or compliance issues can result in shipment delays, fines, or rejected deliveries.

These changes mean that exporters must carefully manage customs procedures to prevent disruption to their supply chains.

How HANNON’s In-House Customs Team Simplifies the Clearance Process

Navigating customs requirements can be complex, but with HANNON Transport’s expert customs team, exporters can rely on a seamless clearance process that ensures goods reach Ireland without unnecessary delays.

Our End-to-End Customs Services Include:

1. Customs Declarations & Documentation Handling
   • We manage all necessary paperwork, including import/export declarations, health certificates, and commodity codes, ensuring compliance with Irish and EU regulations.
2. Pre-Clearing Goods to Avoid Delays
   • Our team prepares and submits customs documents in advance, minimising wait times at ports and reducing transit delays.
3. Direct Access to Irish Ports
   • We provide direct ferry routes from Europe to Ireland, bypassing the UK landbridge and avoiding additional customs complications.
4. Expert Advice on Brexit-Related Trade Rules
   • Our specialists stay up to date with changing regulations, offering guidance on tariffs, VAT, and import duties.

By using HANNON Transport’s customs expertise, European exporters can focus on growing their business while we handle the complexities of cross-border logistics.

Key Documentation and Compliance Tips for Exporters

Ensuring a smooth customs clearance process starts with accurate documentation and compliance. Exporters should be aware of the essential paperwork required for trade between Europe and Ireland.

Essential Documents for EU Exporters to Ireland:

✔ Commercial Invoice – Details the shipment’s value, contents, and buyer/seller information.
✔ Packing List – Specifies the type, quantity, and weight of the goods.
✔ Customs Declaration (SAD or ENS) – Required for both imports and exports.
✔ Commodity Codes (HS Codes) – Determines tariffs and import duties.
✔ Sanitary & Phytosanitary (SPS) Certificates – Needed for food, plants, and animal-based products.
✔ Proof of Origin (EUR1 or Invoice Declaration) – May be required for preferential tariff rates.

Tips to Ensure Smooth Customs Clearance:

• Ensure Accuracy – Even minor errors in paperwork can cause delays or rejections.
• Plan Ahead – Pre-clear goods where possible to reduce hold-ups at Irish ports.
• Use Direct Routes – Shipping via direct ferries avoids UK customs complications.
• Partner with Experts – Working with a specialist customs and logistics provider like HANNON simplifies the process.

By following these best practices, exporters can avoid costly disruptions and maintain reliable, efficient supply chains to Ireland.

Simplified Customs Solutions with HANNON Transport

Post-Brexit customs procedures have added new challenges to EU-Ireland trade, but with the right logistics and customs partner, businesses can continue trading efficiently and compliantly.

HANNON Transport offers a fully integrated customs and logistics service, ensuring that goods move seamlessly across borders with minimal administrative burden. Our direct routes to Ireland, expert customs clearance support, and temperature-controlled transport solutions provide a hassle-free trading experience for European exporters.