Local businesses encouraged to register for Trader Support Service

Local businesses which move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland are being encouraged to register for the UK Government’s Trader Support Service.

The end-to-end support service deals with import, safety and security declarations on behalf of traders, provide guidance as well as dealing with their requirements for moving goods into Northern Ireland.

The service is available to businesses who:

• move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, or bring goods into Northern Ireland from outside the UK
• act on behalf of someone to move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, or bring goods into Northern Ireland from outside the UK
• send parcels between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, or bring parcels into Northern Ireland from outside the UK, using Royal Mail or an express operator
• are based in Northern Ireland and receive goods from outside of Northern Ireland

A Mid and East Antrim Borough Council spokesperson said:

“The UK Government’s Trader Support Service is available to all traders at no cost and will provide wraparound support, alongside guidance on the processes for food and agricultural products.

“Businesses are encouraged to register for the service and avail of the important updates and information provided.”

The service is outlined as part of the publication of guidance on the Northern Ireland Protocol for businesses moving goods into and from Northern Ireland, which comes into force on 1 January 2021.

This follows the publication of the Government’s Command Paper in May, with further detail to be provided as work proceeds to support preparations for the end of the transition period.

To sign up for the Trader Support Service visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/questionnaire-for-businesses-who-move-goods-between-great-britain-and-northern-ireland