Author: Candida Edwards

CO₂ Emission Reporting Available for Future Forwarding Clients in NEO

Understanding the environmental impact of your freight is becoming an increasingly important part of managing a modern supply chain.

At Future Forwarding, we’re making it easier for our clients to access shipment emissions information themselves, with CO₂ emission reporting available through NEO.

If you have a NEO login, you can use the platform to access CO₂ emission information for your shipments, giving you greater visibility of the environmental impact of your logistics activity.

Access your shipment CO₂ data through NEO

We know our clients want more than just reliable freight services. Increasingly, businesses need better information about the environmental impact of their supply chains too.

That’s where NEO’s CO₂ emission reporting can help.

The self-service reporting feature allows clients with NEO access to view available emissions information relating to their shipments. This means you can access the information you need when you need it, without having to request a separate report from our team each time.

Why is shipment emissions data important?

Every shipment has an environmental impact. Factors such as transport mode, distance, routing and other characteristics of the movement can influence the emissions associated with moving your goods.

Having access to emissions information gives you a useful starting point for understanding that impact.

For our clients, CO₂ emission reporting in NEO can help you:

  • View shipment emissions information through your NEO account.
  • Monitor the environmental impact of your freight across your shipments.
  • Support internal sustainability reporting with accessible shipment data.
  • Identify areas for further investigation within your supply chain.
  • Make more informed logistics decisions with environmental information alongside your shipment data.
  • Respond to growing demand for emissions visibility from customers, partners and other stakeholders.

It’s another way we’re helping our clients get more value from their logistics data

A self-service tool for Future Forwarding clients

One of the key benefits of the CO₂ reporting feature is its self-service approach.

If you already have a NEO login, you can access the reporting functionality directly through the platform. This puts your shipment emissions information at your fingertips and gives you the flexibility to check your data as part of your normal logistics activity.

You don’t need to wait for a report to be prepared manually. Simply log in to NEO and use the available CO₂ reporting functionality.

This can be particularly useful for businesses managing regular shipments and looking for a more consistent way to access emissions information across their freight activity.

How can I access CO₂ emission reporting?

To use CO₂ emission reporting in NEO, you’ll need an active NEO login with the appropriate access.

Please contact your Account Manager or email neo@ukffcl.com to request access to the Carbon Emission Module. We can also send you a step-by-step guide to help you.

If you’re already a Future Forwarding client and have access, you can get started by logging in to the platform.

Future Forwarding: giving you greater visibility

At Future Forwarding, we believe good freight forwarding is about more than moving goods from A to B. It’s also about giving our clients the information and visibility they need to manage their supply chains effectively.

Making CO₂ emission reporting available through NEO gives our clients a simple, self-service way to better understand the environmental impact of their shipments.

As sustainability continues to play a bigger role in supply chain decisions, having access to relevant emissions information can help you stay informed and support your wider environmental goals.

Don’t have a NEO login?

If you’re a Future Forwarding client but don’t currently have a NEO login, contact our team and we’ll be happy to help.

NEO provides access to a range of useful shipment information and tools, and CO₂ emission reporting is another way the platform can support your day-to-day supply chain management.

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CLIENT ADVISORY – Shanghai and Ningbo Typhoon 

August 20th, 2026

A typhoon is approaching the Shanghai and Ningbo area, which may affect port and shipping operations in the coming days.

This will inevitably add to the current delays from the last Typhoon, in which both ports are already congested and suffering from berthing delays of 7+ days.

Depending on the storm’s track and local port authority measures, we may see temporary port closures, vessel delays, schedule changes, berthing disruptions, and delays to container collection or delivery. These conditions may also have a knock-on effect on connecting vessels and onward shipments.

Our advice to importers and exporters:

  • Please allow additional transit time for shipments moving through Shanghai and Ningbo.
  • Exporters with cargo due for delivery to the port should check cut-off times with us before arranging transport.
  • Importers should expect possible delays to vessel arrival, discharge and container availability.
  • Where possible, avoid making tight delivery commitments until port operations return to normal.
  • We will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates on any shipment directly affected.

As your freight forwarder, we are working closely with carriers, terminals and local partners to minimise disruption and keep your cargo moving safely.

If you have cargo scheduled through Shanghai or Ningbo, please contact us for the latest shipment-specific update.

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U.S. Section 301 Tariffs Return: Why Importers Need to Revisit Their Supply Chain Strategy

July 28th 2026

For companies importing goods into the United States, tariff changes have become a regular part of doing business. However, each new trade measure brings a fresh set of challenges, and the latest introduction of Section 301 tariffs means importers need to take another close look at their costs, suppliers, and shipment planning.

Following the expiration of the temporary Section 122 tariff measures on 24 July 2026, the U.S. has introduced additional duties under Section 301 related to forced labour concerns. The new tariffs are expected to apply at rates of 10% to 12.5%, depending on the country of origin and applicable trade rules.

While the headlines often focus on the tariff percentage itself, the real impact for importers goes much deeper. A tariff is not just an extra line on a customs entry. It can influence purchasing decisions, inventory strategies, supplier relationships, and the overall cost of moving goods across international borders.

The real question is not “What is the tariff rate?”

When new duties are introduced, the first question businesses usually ask is: “How much more will this cost us?”

That is an important question, but it is only part of the picture.

The bigger question is: How will this change affect the way we source, ship, and plan our supply chain?

A 10% additional duty on a shipment can quickly become a significant cost when applied across thousands of imported units. For businesses operating on tight margins, even a small increase can affect pricing decisions and profitability.

However, the impact will vary significantly between companies. Two importers bringing goods from the same country may experience very different outcomes depending on the type of product, customs classification, existing duty rates, and whether exemptions apply.

This is why understanding the details behind the tariff is essential.

Country of origin remains one of the most important factors

Modern supply chains are rarely straightforward. A product may be designed in one country, manufactured in another, assembled elsewhere, and shipped through a separate logistics hub before reaching the U.S.

For customs purposes, the key factor is not simply where the goods were shipped from. It is where they are considered to originate under U.S. customs rules.

This means importers should review their supply chains carefully and confirm that their country-of-origin information is accurate.

A supplier located in one country does not automatically mean the goods qualify as originating from that country. Manufacturing processes, material sourcing, and production activities can all influence the final determination.

For businesses importing regularly, this is an opportunity to revisit supplier documentation and ensure customs information is complete and up to date.

Some products may qualify for exemptions

Although the new Section 301 tariffs will affect many imports, exemptions remain available for certain products.

Some goods may be excluded where applying additional duties could create supply shortages, affect critical industries, or where alternative sources are not readily available.

For importers, this means it is important not to assume every shipment will automatically attract the additional duty.

A detailed review should include:

  • Product classification under the Harmonised Tariff Schedule (HTS)
  • Country of origin verification
  • Existing duty rates
  • Applicable exclusions or exemptions
  • Supplier documentation

A proper review before shipping can prevent unexpected costs appearing after the cargo has already departed.

Supply chain planning becomes even more important

Tariff changes often expose weaknesses in supply chains that were previously hidden.

A supplier that was cost-effective six months ago may no longer offer the same advantage once additional duties, freight costs, and inventory considerations are included.

Many importers are now looking beyond the purchase price of goods and focusing on the complete landed cost. This includes:

  • Product cost
  • International freight
  • Insurance
  • Customs duties
  • Brokerage fees
  • Inland transportation
  • Storage and handling costs

Understanding the full picture allows businesses to make better decisions about sourcing and shipment timing.

In some cases, absorbing the additional duty may be the most practical option. In others, companies may explore alternative suppliers, adjust order volumes, or change shipping strategies.

There is no single solution that works for every importer.

Preparing for continued change

The introduction of new Section 301 tariffs is another reminder that global trade is constantly evolving. Importers have had to adapt to changing regulations, shifting manufacturing locations, freight market fluctuations, and increasing compliance requirements.

The businesses that handle these changes best are those that stay informed and build flexibility into their supply chains.

Our team continues to monitor U.S. trade developments and will provide further updates as additional guidance becomes available.

If you are importing goods into the United States and would like to understand how these tariff changes may affect your shipments, landed costs, or supply chain strategy, our team is available to help review your options.

Previous Update

Middle East Shipping Update: Red Sea, Suez Canal and Strait of Hormuz

Update: July 28th, 2026

Since last week, the security situation in the Red Sea has deteriorated following renewed attacks by Houthi militants on commercial shipping, including reported strikes involving Saudi-linked oil tankers. The escalation has pushed oil prices higher and serves as a reminder that geopolitical events can quickly influence global supply chains. While there has been no immediate impact on container freight rates, sustained increases in fuel costs could lead to higher bunker surcharges and place upward pressure on shipping costs if tensions continue. Carriers are continuing to monitor the situation closely and will adjust routing decisions where necessary to protect vessels, crews and cargo.

Update: July 23rd, 2026

Global shipping continues to face uncertainty as tensions across the Middle East remain elevated. While diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran have helped ease fears of a wider regional conflict, the security situation has not fully stabilised. For importers and exporters across the UK, USA and Europe, the key question remains the same: Can cargo move safely through one of the world’s most important shipping corridors?

The good news is that both the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal remain open to commercial shipping. However, that does not mean operations have returned to normal.

Shipping lines continue to make routing decisions based on daily security assessments, naval intelligence and insurance requirements. As a result, transit patterns remain fluid, with some carriers resuming services through the region while others continue to divert vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.

Strait of Hormuz Remains Open

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, connecting the Arabian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean. Approximately one-fifth of global oil supplies and a significant volume of containerised cargo normally pass through this narrow shipping lane.

Despite speculation earlier this year that the Strait could be closed following renewed military tensions, the waterway remains open.

Commercial vessels continue to transit the Strait, although volumes remain below historical averages. Many shipowners are proceeding cautiously, with crossings approved only after comprehensive risk assessments and in close coordination with maritime security authorities.

For carriers operating services into the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Iraq, vessel schedules continue to be reviewed on a voyage-by-voyage basis.

The Suez Canal Is Open, But the Red Sea Remains the Challenge

While the Suez Canal itself continues to operate normally, the biggest operational concern lies further south.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait and southern Red Sea remain high-risk areas following ongoing Houthi attacks and renewed threats against commercial shipping. Although international naval forces continue to patrol the region, shipping companies remain cautious about sending vessels through the corridor.

For many global carriers, the decision is no longer about whether the Suez Canal is open. Instead, it is about whether the entire Red Sea transit can be completed safely.

This distinction is important because vessels travelling between Asia and Europe must first navigate the Red Sea before reaching the Suez Canal.

Shipping Lines Continue to Take Different Approaches

The global container shipping industry has adopted a cautious and flexible approach.

Several major carriers, including Maersk, have gradually reintroduced selected services through the Red Sea after conducting detailed security reviews. These resumptions remain limited and are closely monitored.

Other operators continue to reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, accepting longer transit times in exchange for reduced security risks.

Rather than implementing permanent network changes, most shipping lines are adjusting services according to the latest intelligence, insurance guidance and naval recommendations.

This means routing decisions can change quickly should conditions deteriorate.

Impact on UK and USA Supply Chains

Although shipping lanes remain open, the ongoing instability continues to affect global logistics.

Importers across the Globe may continue to experience:

  • Longer transit times on selected Asia-Europe services
  • Higher freight rates due to longer voyage distances and increased operating costs
  • Elevated war risk insurance premiums
  • Schedule changes with limited notice
  • Equipment imbalances at certain ports
  • Continued pressure on supply chain planning

What Should Shippers Expect?

The current outlook remains cautiously optimistic.

Diplomatic engagement between the United States and Iran has reduced concerns of an immediate escalation, but security risks across the Red Sea continue to influence carrier decisions. As a result, most shipping lines are expected to maintain a flexible operating model throughout the coming weeks.

Customers shipping cargo between Asia, Europe, the Middle East, the UK and North America should continue to allow additional transit time where possible and remain prepared for schedule adjustments should regional conditions change.

Our Advice

At present, the Strait of Hormuz remains open, the Suez Canal is fully operational, and commercial shipping continues to move through both waterways. However, security conditions remain dynamic, particularly in the Red Sea, where carriers continue to assess risks on a voyage-by-voyage basis.

Our team is monitoring developments closely and remains in regular contact with shipping lines, carriers and global partners. We will continue to provide timely updates as the situation evolves and work with customers to minimise disruption wherever possible.

For businesses moving freight internationally, maintaining flexibility and planning ahead remain the best strategies while the region continues to stabilise.

PREVIOUS UPDATE

Logistics News Middle East

Tariff Update: Section 122 Tariffs Set to Expire, New Measures May Follow

Update: July 22nd, 2026

As global trade continues to shift, we want to keep our customers informed about the latest developments. These developments may impact import costs and supply chain planning.

At this time, the current Section 122 tariffs are scheduled to expire on July 24, 2026. However, industry discussions suggest that additional tariff measures may be introduced following the expiration date. While details remain limited, businesses should be prepared for possible changes that could affect future import costs.

What Are Section 122 Tariffs?

Section 122 is a trade authority that allows the U.S. government to apply temporary tariffs on imported goods in response to trade concerns. These tariffs were designed as a short-term measure and have a limited duration.

With the current Section 122 tariff period approaching its expiration date, attention is now focused on potential new actions. Specifically, there is focus on whether new tariff actions will be announced to replace or expand upon the existing measures.

What Could This Mean for Importers?

Any new tariff announcements could impact importers in several ways, including:

  • Changes in duty costs: Additional tariffs could increase the overall landed cost of imported goods.
  • Supply chain planning challenges: Companies may need to review sourcing strategies and shipment timing as new details become available.
  • Potential shipping activity increases: Importers may choose to move cargo earlier to avoid possible duty increases. As a result, this could affect capacity and transit times.
  • Closer review of product classifications: Tariff impacts are often based on product type and HTS classification

Current Developments

Information has already been released regarding potential tariff actions involving Brazil and Canada. However, further details on additional countries or products have not yet been announced.

At this stage, there is still uncertainty around what additional measures may be introduced. In addition, it is uncertain when they may take effect, and which commodities could be affected.

Please Stay Tuned

We will continue monitoring these developments and provide updates on our Website as more information becomes available.

Our team is committed to helping customers navigate changes in trade regulations and understand potential impacts.

ATA Carnets Have Gone Digital:

What the 2026 Changes Mean for Your Business

If your business regularly sends goods overseas for exhibitions, trade shows, product demonstrations or temporary projects, you’ll probably already be familiar with ATA Carnets. For years, they have simplified temporary exports by removing the need to pay import duties and taxes in every country you visit.

Now, the system has undergone its biggest change in decades.

From 1 June 2026, the UK joined the first phase of the international eATA Carnet programme. This introduced digital processing for ATA Carnets alongside the European Union, Norway and Switzerland. While the purpose of an ATA Carnet remains exactly the same, the way it is presented and processed at customs has changed significantly.

If you’re planning temporary exports, here’s what you need to know.

What is an ATA Carnet?

An ATA Carnet is an international customs document that allows goods to be temporarily exported and imported without paying customs duties or import VAT. However, this applies only if the goods are returned within the carnet’s validity period.

It acts as a passport for goods. As a result, it makes temporary international movements much simpler than completing full customs declarations every time a shipment crosses a border.

ATA Carnets are commonly used for:

  • Exhibition and trade show equipment
  • Professional equipment used overseas
  • Commercial samples
  • Demonstration products
  • Sporting equipment
  • Musical instruments
  • Film and television production equipment

Rather than paying import charges in every country you visit, the carnet guarantees those duties while the goods remain temporarily abroad. Once the goods return home, the carnet is discharged. Therefore, no import duties become payable, provided all customs procedures have been correctly completed.

For businesses attending multiple exhibitions or visiting several countries with the same equipment, an ATA Carnet can save both time and considerable expense.

Who typically needs an ATA Carnet?

Many industries rely on ATA Carnets without realising just how often they use them.

Typical users include:

What’s changed?

Until recently, ATA Carnets were entirely paper-based.

Every movement required customs officers to stamp the carnet booklet and remove the relevant voucher as goods entered or left each country. Additionally, losing the booklet or missing a customs endorsement could lead to lengthy investigations. In some cases, this resulted in unexpected customs claims.

That process is now changing.

From 1 June 2026, the UK became one of the first countries to adopt the new eATA Carnet system. Together with the European Union, Norway and Switzerland, customs authorities can now process carnet movements digitally.

Instead of relying solely on a paper booklet, carnet holders use the official ATA Carnet app to present a secure QR code at customs. Therefore, customs officers scan the code, allowing each import, export and re-export movement to be recorded electronically.

This creates a digital record of the journey while reducing paperwork and improving visibility throughout the temporary export process.

The International Chamber of Commerce intends to extend the digital system worldwide over the coming years. Furthermore, global implementation is expected by 2028.

What does this mean for your business?

The good news is that the purpose of an ATA Carnet hasn’t changed.

If your goods qualify today, they’ll continue to qualify under the new digital system. The temporary admission rules, eligibility requirements and responsibility for returning the goods all remain exactly the same.

The difference is how those movements are managed.

Businesses should now expect to:

  • Use the official ATA Carnet app when travelling between participating countries
  • Present a QR code to customs instead of relying solely on paper documentation
  • Ensure the person accompanying the goods understands the digital customs process
  • Confirm that every customs crossing is correctly recorded electronically

As more countries adopt the eATA system, digital processing will gradually become the standard method for temporary exports.

How does this affect freight forwarders?

While the process becomes more digital, planning remains just as important.

As experienced freight forwarders, we now help clients prepare for both the customs requirements and the digital procedures before goods leave the UK.

This includes confirming whether the destination country supports eATA processing and ensuring the correct documentation has been arranged. It also involves advising who should present the carnet at customs. In addition, we help businesses understand how the digital process works before they travel.

For companies attending overseas exhibitions or sending valuable equipment abroad, a little preparation can prevent costly delays at the border.

What should you do now?

If your business uses ATA Carnets, there is no need to worry, but there are a few practical steps worth taking.

  • Ensure the employee or representative travelling with the goods is familiar with the ATA Carnet app. In addition, they should understand what will happen at customs.
  • Review any upcoming temporary exports and check whether your destination is participating in the eATA programme.
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Middle East Shipping Update: Red Sea, Suez Canal and Strait of Hormuz

Update: May 22nd, 2026

The situation across key Middle East shipping corridors remains highly disrupted, with no meaningful return to normal routing at this stage.

Red Sea and Suez Canal

The Red Sea corridor remains largely avoided by mainline carriers. The ongoing security risk in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait continues to keep most container services away from the Suez route.

As a result, the majority of Asia–Europe and Asia–US East Coast services are still being rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope. This is now well established across most major alliances.

Transit times remain extended, with schedules typically running several days to a couple of weeks longer depending on the service and rotation. Carrier schedules are still adjusting, and blank sailings and rolled cargo remain part of normal operations on affected trades.

Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz remains the most critical pressure point in the region.

As of May 2026, commercial vessel movement through the Strait remains heavily restricted and inconsistent. While there have been limited and controlled transits reported, the overall level of traffic is still far below normal, and the area continues to operate under high security risk conditions.

A significant number of vessels remain waiting outside the Gulf or operating under controlled routing arrangements. Passage is still influenced by security clearance, insurance conditions, and carrier risk assessments on a case-by-case basis.

This continues to affect cargo flows in and out of key Gulf hubs such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Iraq.

Gulf region operations

Ports in the region are still working, but the network is under pressure.

Jebel Ali, Dammam, Hamad Port, and surrounding gateways are handling diverted volumes, but schedules are less predictable than usual. Feeder networks are also under strain due to vessel repositioning and congestion management.

We continue to see:

  • Schedule changes at short notice
  • Capacity balancing across regional services
  • Higher reliance on transshipment via alternative hubs
  • Ongoing war risk and insurance surcharges

Overall impact on supply chains

For importers and exporters, the main challenges remain:

  • Longer transit times, especially on Asia–Europe lanes
  • Reduced schedule reliability across Gulf-linked trades
  • Higher freight and insurance costs
  • Limited flexibility in routing through traditional Middle East corridors

There has been no full stabilisation across either the Red Sea or the Strait of Hormuz. Carriers are still operating in a risk-managed environment, with routing decisions driven by security conditions and insurance requirements rather than schedule efficiency.

We will continue to monitor developments closely and update as routing options and service reliability evolve.

PREVIOUS UPDATE

Logistics News Middle East

UK Plastic Packaging Tax Update

22 May 2026

What Importers, Exporters and Supply Chains Need to Prepare for Now

The UK’s Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) has been in force for a while, but the rules around recycled plastic evidence could soon become much stricter.

This week, HMRC and HM Treasury launched a new 12-week consultation looking at whether businesses should be required to use mandatory certification schemes to prove recycled plastic content in packaging.

For importers, exporters, manufacturers and logistics providers, this matters more than many realise.

The direction of travel is clear. Regulators want stronger traceability, better evidence, and tighter controls around recycled plastic claims, especially for imported packaging.

Here’s what businesses need to know now, what changes are being reviewed, and how to prepare before the next phase of compliance arrives.

What Is the Plastic Packaging Tax?

The Plastic Packaging Tax applies to plastic packaging manufactured in or imported into the UK that contains less than 30% recycled plastic.

The tax currently stands at £228.82 per tonne of taxable plastic packaging.

The aim is to encourage businesses to use more recycled plastic and reduce reliance on virgin polymers across UK supply chains.

The tax can apply to:

  • Plastic packaging manufactured in the UK
  • Empty plastic packaging imported into the UK
  • Plastic packaging imported with goods
  • Certain transport and distribution packaging

The Current Situation

Right now, businesses can claim exemption from the tax if they can show their packaging contains at least 30% recycled plastic content.

However, HMRC has concerns about how recycled content is currently evidenced.

At present, businesses may rely on:

  • Supplier declarations
  • Technical data sheets
  • Certificates of conformity
  • Production specifications
  • Commercial invoices
  • Audit records

The problem is that standards vary widely across the market.

Some importers have strong traceability systems. Others rely on supplier statements with very little independent verification.

For overseas supply chains in particular, proving exactly where recycled material originated and how it was processed can be difficult.

That’s one of the main reasons the government has opened this latest consultation.

What Is Being Reviewed?

The government is consulting on whether mechanically recycled plastic packaging should require mandatory certification before businesses can claim exemption from Plastic Packaging Tax.

In simple terms, businesses may eventually need independently verified proof that recycled content is genuine and traceable.

The consultation is specifically reviewing:

  • The risk of fraud or inaccurate recycled-content claims
  • How certification schemes could work in practice
  • The costs and operational impact on businesses
  • What evidence standards should apply
  • Which certification systems may be acceptable
  • Possible implementation timelines

HMRC is also engaging with:

  • Importers
  • Exporters
  • Packaging manufacturers
  • Waste management providers
  • Recyclers
  • Freight and logistics operators
  • Local authorities
  • Trade associations

The consultation is open until 10 August 2026.

Why Importers Should Pay Attention

Many UK importers are already liable for Plastic Packaging Tax without fully realising it.

If your business imports packaged goods into the UK, you may become responsible for PPT compliance even when the packaging was sourced and manufactured overseas.

That means HMRC may expect you to hold evidence showing:

  • Recycled content percentages
  • Source material details
  • Production traceability
  • Supporting technical documentation

The challenge is that many overseas supply chains are not yet set up for this level of reporting

Some businesses still rely on:

  • Generic supplier declarations
  • Unverified recycled-content claims
  • Incomplete technical specifications
  • Limited batch traceability

If certification becomes mandatory, those gaps could quickly become compliance risks.

What Exporters Need to Know

Exporters supplying goods into the UK should expect customers to tighten packaging compliance requirements over the next 12 to 24 months.

UK importers are likely to start requesting:

  • Formal recycled-content declarations
  • Third-party certification
  • Batch-level traceability
  • Chain-of-custody evidence
  • Audit access rights

This is especially relevant for:

  • Retail supply chains
  • FMCG products
  • Food packaging
  • Automotive components
  • Consumer goods
  • E-commerce shipments

Packaging compliance is becoming a procurement issue, not just an environmental one.

The Next Confirmed Change: April 2027

One important change has already been confirmed.

From 1 April 2027, the government plans to allow chemically recycled plastic to count toward recycled-content requirements under a mass balance approach.

This is separate from the current consultation but closely linked to the wider reform of Plastic Packaging Tax.

Mass balance accounting allows recycled and virgin materials to be mixed during production while allocating recycled content through audited accounting systems.

For businesses using advanced recycling technologies, this could create more flexibility, but it will also require stronger documentation and verification processes..

Key Dates To Remember

Plastic Packaging Tax Introduced

☐ Already in force since 1 April 2022

Current Government Consultation Closes

☐ 10 August 2026

Chemically Recycled Plastic Rules Expected

☐ 1 April 2027

What Businesses Should Do Now

Waiting until new rules become mandatory could create serious operational pressure later.

Businesses should start preparing now.

CHECK LIST

Final Compliance Reminder

Businesses relying on basic supplier declarations or incomplete packaging records should act now.

The focus from HMRC is moving toward:

  • Stronger audit trails
  • Verified recycled-content claims
  • Supply chain traceability
  • Formal certification systems

Early preparation will reduce compliance risk and help avoid disruption later.

PREVIOUS UPDATE

How We Delivered one of the UK’s Largest Water Slides

May 20th, 2026

A major new addition is set to transform the visitor experience at Cliff Lakes, as one of the UK’s largest water slide structures arrived on site following a carefully managed international logistics operation.

Future Forwarding Co Ltd has successfully completed the international transport, marking a significant milestone for both the logistics sector and the UK leisure industry.

Commissioned by Kingsbury Watersport Limited, the project centres on the delivery and installation of the X-Tower Slide, a towering fibreglass structure supported by a galvanised steel framework. Once assembled, the slide will stand approximately 12 metres high, covering a footprint close to 30×30 metres, and weighing in excess of 20 tonnes.

This was not a standard delivery. Moving a structure of this scale required detailed planning from the outset, with multiple oversized components needing specialist handling, coordinated transport, and strict adherence to cross-border regulations.

A Multi-Stage Operation Across Europe

The journey began in Fontenay-le-Comte, France, where the cargo was prepared and loaded across five separate crane operations. Each loading was scheduled at staggered intervals to ensure safe handling of the fibreglass slide sections, steel supports, and associated fittings such as bolts, brackets, and sealing materials.

Given the dimensions and nature of the cargo, five flatbed trailers were deployed. Several loads required out-of-gauge considerations, adding another layer of complexity to route planning and permitting.

The transport route ran from France through Calais, crossing into the UK via Dover, before continuing to Tamworth. Each leg of the journey was timed to maintain momentum while ensuring full compliance with transport regulations.

Despite the challenges typically associated with oversized freight, the full operation was completed within a four-day transit window.

The Crane after Unloading the Steel Structure from the Flatbed Tailer

Precision Delivery Meets Tight Installation Schedule

Timing was critical. A specialist installation team had a limited window on site, which meant deliveries had to be phased with precision. All five vehicles arrived in staggered slots, allowing immediate offloading by crane and a smooth transition into the build phase.

Handling materials that are both bulky and fragile required careful coordination at every stage. Clear communication between all parties ensured that adjustments could be made quickly when needed, keeping the project aligned with its delivery schedule.

Overcoming Challenges Through Coordination

Projects of this nature rarely run without hurdles. Oversized load restrictions, permit requirements, and the physical demands of transporting large structural elements all presented challenges along the way.

What made the difference was consistent coordination and real-time updates shared between Future Forwarding Co Ltd, suppliers, and the end client. This ensured that even when conditions shifted, the operation remained on track.

The Slide in place at Cliff Lakes Aqua Park

A New Attraction on the Horizon

The construction is now complete, and the new slide stands as a centrepiece attraction at Cliff Lakes, adding to its reputation as one of the UK’s leading aqua park destinations.

Already home to the popular Aqualand inflatable obstacle course, the site offers a dynamic, water-based experience where visitors can climb, slide, and navigate floating challenges in a supervised environment. The addition of this large-scale slide is expected to elevate the offering even further.

Although the park is already open, the new slide attraction will officially open to the public on 23 May 2026.                 

Project Summary

This was more than a transport job. It was a full-scale logistics operation that demanded planning, coordination, and flexibility from start to finish, by our European Road Freight Team.

By managing every stage of the journey, Future Forwarding Co Ltd has helped bring a major new attraction to the UK market. Reinforcing its capability in handling complex, oversized cargo projects across Europe.

flat bed truck
The crane offloading
Parts of the pre-erected Slide Structure
Platform to which the slide is built on
The Finished Slide

HMRC TRE Reporting

What Importers Need to Know About the New Customs Data System

HMRC has introduced a new reporting platform called Trade Reporting & Extracting (TRE), replacing the older Management Support System (MSS). For many importers and exporters, this is a quiet but important shift in how customs data is accessed, reviewed, and used for compliance checks.

While TRE is still being developed and refined, it is already becoming a key tool for businesses that want better visibility over their customs declarations.

So what exactly is it, and why should it be part of your monthly checks?

What is HMRC TRE?

Trade Reporting & Extracting (TRE) is a free HMRC service that allows traders to access customs declaration data submitted in their name.

This includes import and export declarations made through both CHIEF and CDS systems. In practical terms, it gives businesses a structured way to view what has been declared to HMRC by freight forwarders, customs brokers, or internal teams.

Previously, this information was accessed through the Management Support System (MSS), which was a paid service and often required separate setup and access arrangements. TRE replaces that system and brings reporting into a more standardised digital format.

Reports are typically available to download in spreadsheet format, which makes it easier for finance teams, compliance managers, and logistics departments to review the data.

Why HMRC introduced TRE

The move to TRE is part of HMRC’s wider shift towards digital customs processes under the CDS framework.

The goal is simple: improve transparency and give businesses better access to their own trade data.

Instead of relying solely on agents or monthly summaries, importers can now directly review the declarations that affect:

  • Duty payments
  • Import VAT
  • Commodity classification
  • Customs valuation
  • Origin and preference claims

This matters because responsibility for accuracy sits with the importer, even when declarations are submitted by a third party.

What information TRE reports contain

TRE reports can include a wide range of customs data, such as:

  • Import and export entries
  • Commodity codes used on declarations
  • Customs values and currencies
  • Duty and VAT calculations
  • Country of origin and preferential claims
  • Declaration references linked to shipments

This level of detail allows businesses to compare what was expected against what was actually submitted, and that comparison is where most issues are found.

Why monthly TRE checks matter

Even though the system is new and still being improved, monthly checks should already be part of standard due diligence.

Here’s why it matters in real terms.

1. Catch classification errors early

A wrong commodity code can affect duty rates, VAT, and compliance exposure. TRE helps identify these issues before they build up over time.

2. Verify duty and VAT accuracy

Small errors repeated across multiple entries can quickly become costly. Regular reviews help ensure financial accuracy.

3. Monitor broker activity

Many importers use multiple agents. TRE gives a single view of all declarations, so nothing slips through the cracks.

4. Support audit readiness

If HMRC reviews your records, having a clear monthly reconciliation of declarations strengthens your position.

5. Improve internal controls

Finance and logistics teams can align declared values with purchase records and landed cost models.

What businesses should do

Importers should treat TRE as part of their standard monthly compliance routine.

A simple process works best:

  • Download monthly TRE reports
  • Match declarations to invoices and shipping records
  • Check commodity codes and values
  • Review duty and VAT outcomes
  • Flag inconsistencies early

This does not need to be complex, but it does need to be consistent.

MORE INFORMATION

TRE is more than just a reporting upgrade. It represents a shift towards full transparency in UK customs data.

For importers, this means greater control, but also greater responsibility.

Businesses that build TRE checks into their monthly process will be better positioned to avoid duty errors, reduce compliance risk, and maintain cleaner customs records.

As the system evolves, those who adapt early will have a clear advantage in both operational control and HMRC readiness.

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