Author: Candida Edwards

ICS2 Phase 3:

What Importers & Exporters Need to Know Before the September 2025 Deadline

At Future Forwarding, we make it our mission to keep our clients informed about upcoming regulatory changes that may impact the flow of goods through global supply chains. Whether you are seeking advice on customs concerns, airfreight procedures, ocean freight management, road freight strategies, imports handling, exports processes, or navigating ICS2 regulations, we are here to help.

The Import Control System (ICS), and more recently ICS2 (Import Control System 2), is an EU-wide customs pre-arrival security program. It aims to collect data about goods entering the EU before they arrive, for safety and security risk analysis. ICS2 is being rolled out in phases, each focusing on different types of operators and transportation modes.

Who it affects: Express carriers and designated postal operators (under UPU regulations) transporting goods by air into the EU.

Phase 1 – Air Express and Postal Pre-loading (March 2021)

What’s required: Submitting a minimum dataset called Pre-loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) before loading at the airport of departure.

Why: To enable early security risk assessment before goods are loaded onto the aircraft bound for the EU.

Phase 2 – Air Cargo and General Air Transport (March 2023)

Who it affects: All air cargo general transport operators, freight forwarders, logistics providers, and postal operators (beyond PLACI)

What is required?

  • A complete Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) dataset, including detailed information from multiple supply chain actors.
  • Ensures a multi-filer approach, where different parties provide segments of the ENS.

Why: Allows customs to assess risks more comprehensively across the full air supply chain.

What’s Changing in Phase 3?

Phase 3 – Maritime, Road, Rail, and Remaining Postal Flows (Starting March 2024 and ongoing into 2025)

Phase 3 marks the final rollout of ICS2 and comes into force in September 2025. It extends mandatory requirements to various sectors, including airfreight, sea freight, rail, and road freight carriers, reflecting the comprehensive scope of freight management and its linkage to customs regulation.

Who it affects: Operators in sea, inland waterways, rail, and road transport, including remaining postal and express shipments not yet covered.

What is required?

  • Filing ENS for all modes of transport, including deep sea, short sea, and land modes.
  • Alignment with new business rules and data requirements under ICS2..

Rollout Schedule: Gradual onboarding from March 2024 through to 1st October 2025, with deadlines depending on the operator type and Member State readiness.

Why It Matters for Your Business

If you’re importing into or transshipping through the EU, ICS2 compliance will be essential. Incomplete or late filings can result in significant issues involving customs delays or freight blockages risking exports and imports.

  • Delays at customs
  • Shipments being held or rejected
  • Fines and potential reputational damage

How Future Forwarding Can Help

Our team is already working with clients to ensure readiness for ICS2 Phase 3, covering all aspects, from customs to various freight types such as airfreight, ocean freight, and road freight. We offer:

  • Guidance on data accuracy and ENS requirements
  • Pre-shipment compliance checks
  • System integration support for timely data submission

We’ll make sure your business stays ahead of the curve so you don’t face disruptions or penalties.

If you’d like to speak with our team about ICS2 or review your compliance strategy, get in touch with us today.

Customs Services

Update: 20 May 2025

Swedish Ports to Grind to a Halt Amid Nationwide Strike on May 21 2025

Freight Disruptions Expected Between UK and Sweden as the Sweden strike escalates.

Swedish dockworkers launched a nationwide strike today, bringing operations to a standstill across the country’s major ports. The strike began at 12:00 local time and is scheduled to continue until 18:00, marking a major escalation in an ongoing labor dispute.

The Swedish Dockworkers’ Union confirmed the strike is in response to stalled negotiations over collective agreements. Key issues include the protection of elected union representatives and tighter regulations on temporary employment.

All ports where the union has members are affected, leading to widespread disruption in both import and export operations. The impact is particularly significant on UK-Sweden freight routes, with delays expected across several European supply chains.

While the Swedish Transport Workers’ Union had also planned to participate, it reached a last-minute agreement with port employers on May 20, and withdrew its strike notice.

“This action is a direct result of unresolved concerns that have gone ignored for too long,” said a representative from the Dockworkers’ Union. “We are committed to pushing for fair treatment and job security across the sector.”

Further strikes are already scheduled. Targeted actions at specific terminals will take place between May 22 and May 26, with additional disruptions planned from May 30 through June 15 if no resolution is reached.

Future Forwarding urge clients to prepare for continued disruption. Activating contingency plans and exploring alternative routes to maintain delivery schedules.

The Swedish government has not yet intervened but has urged both parties to return to negotiations immediately.

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UK-EU SPS Deal: Relaxed Border Checks After April 2025

Relaxed Border Checks After April 2025 marks a significant step in global news.

Just weeks after the UK implemented full UK border controls on EU imports on April 30, 2025, a significant shift has emerged in the UK-EU trade relations. A new agreement between the UK and European Union aims to reduce disruption caused by sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) checks.

A Sudden Pivot from Full Checks

The post-Brexit timeline had set this April as the milestone for fully enforcing SPS import controls. UK ports and logistics operators prepared extensively, investing millions in new infrastructure to handle the expected volume of physical inspections.

This new agreement significantly alters that trajectory. According to government sources and port authorities, the UK has agreed to align certain standards more closely with EU food safety regulations. Thus allowing for a relaxation or even removal of some SPS checks for compliant goods.

This move is widely seen as a practical solution to the mounting administrative burdens faced by importers, particularly in sectors dealing with chilled meats, dairy, and fresh produce.

Impact on UK Ports and Border Control Infrastructure

While this development eases pressure on EU importers, it has left several UK ports in a state of uncertainty. Facilities in key locations like Dover, Portsmouth, and others were built specifically to manage comprehensive border control post (BCP) operations.

Now, with reduced inspection requirements, many of these BCPs risk being underutilised. Several port authorities and local councils have voiced concerns over the abrupt change, escribing it as “policy whiplash”. They are calling on the government for compensation and clearer guidance.

What This Means for Importers and Exporters

For companies moving goods across the UK-EU border, this agreement could bring multiple benefits:

  • Faster border clearance
  • Lower customs and inspection costs
  • Fewer delays at UK ports
  • Reduced need for rerouting or warehousing

However, the exact implementation of these relaxations including which goods qualify and under what conditions, is still being clarified by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and HMRC.

Conclusion

Businesses should remain agile:

  • Keep communication open with freight forwarders and customs agents
  • Stay updated on future changes to SPS procedures

Future Forwarding Company is a Global Player and offers expert customs brokerage, EU-UK freight forwarding, and regulatory compliance support to help your business stay ahead of the curve. Contact us today to streamline your EU imports under the new regime.

Guidance
European Services

Update: 20 May 2025

U.S. and China Announce 90-Day Tariff Reductions

May 13, 2025 — Global Trade Update: The UK and India trade deal is making headlines as both nations work towards strengthening their economic ties.

The United States and China have announced a temporary 90-day reduction in tariffs, starting May 14, 2025, aimed at de-escalating trade tensions and boosting cross-border commerce. This major policy shift is expected to significantly affect shipping volumes, import/export flows, and logistics operations between the world’s two largest economies, especially for companies managing imports from China and exports to China.

Key Highlights of the U.S.-China Tariff Deal

  • Effective Dates: May 14 – August 12, 2025
  • U.S. Tariffs on Chinese Imports: Reduced from 145% to 30%
  • Chinese Tariffs on U.S. Exports: Lowered from 125% to 10%

“De Minimis” Threshold Adjusted

The U.S. has reduced its ‘de minimis’ tariff on small-value Chinese shipments from 120% to 54%, effective May 14. A $100 flat fee option remains in place for eligible parcels.

China’s Strategic Concessions

In a move to facilitate broader cooperation, China has lifted its ban on Boeing aircraft deliveries and committed to suspending fentanyl exports to the U.S. These steps aim to resolve key disputes and improve diplomatic relations.

Impact on Trade, Logistics & Business Opportunities

The temporary tariff relief is anticipated to stimulate bilateral trade growth—especially in high-demand sectors including:

  • Electronics & Semiconductors
  • Industrial Machinery
  • Consumer Goods
  • Agricultural Products
  • Oil, Gas & Renewable Energy

Businesses that rely on airfreight, ocean freight, and international shipping should be prepared to act quickly during this 90-day tariff window. With the reduction in tariffs on imports from China and exports to China, this is a key opportunity to reduce landed costs, improve delivery timelines, and expand market reach. To navigate these changes efficiently, many companies are turning to freight forwarding partners—such as Future Forwarding—for tailored logistics solutions, customs guidance, and optimized supply chain strategies.

What’s Next?

This 90-day window creates a critical period for businesses to optimize supply chains, negotiate new contracts, and capitalize on lowered trade barriers. While the agreement is temporary, its implications are far-reaching—and closely watched by global markets.

UK–US Partial Trade Agreement: What Importers and Exporters Need to Know

The United Kingdom and United States have reached a partial trade agreement aimed at easing tensions and boosting transatlantic trade, following the UK’s recent deal with India

Automotive Tariffs Reduced: Opportunity for UK Car Exporters

A dramatic reduction in US tariffs on UK manufactured vehicles, from 27.5% down to 10%.

However, the benefit is capped at 100,000 cars annually, closely matching the UK’s current export volume to the US

Steel and Aluminium Tariffs Eliminated: Boost for UK Metal Exporters

IThe US has agreed to eliminate its 25% tariffs on British steel and aluminium, a move that affects around £700 million in annual exports.

Agricultural Trade: Expanded Access With Limitations

The UK has secured market access for beef exports to the U.S., offering new opportunities for UK agricultural exporters. Meanwhile, UK importers will now be able to bring in up to £5 billion in U.S. agricultural products, including ethanol and beef, under duty-free quotas.

Key Benefits for Importers and Exporters in Other Sectors

The deal includes a range of provisions designed to streamline trade flows and reduce costs:

  • Preferential treatment for UK aerospace exports, including parts and components.
  • Better access for U.S. companies in UK government procurement contracts, opening public sector bidding.
  • Simplified customs procedures for U.S. goods entering the UK, reducing friction at borders and accelerating supply chain logistics.

What Tariffs Remain?

Despite the deal, many products are still subject to tariffs:

  • A 10% base tariff remains in place for most UK goods entering the U.S.
  • Tariffs on pharmaceuticals, digital services, and other key sectors have not yet been addressed.

What This Means for UK–US Trade

While not a full free trade agreement, this deal offers immediate benefits for businesses involved in transatlantic trade. Importers and exporters should review tariff codes, customs procedures, and quotas closely to ensure compliance and optimize savings.

Next steps: Further negotiations are expected to resolve outstanding issues and potentially move toward a broader trade deal in the future.

UK and India Sign Free Trade Agreement: Key Benefits for Logistics and Trade

After years of negotiations, the United Kingdom and India have signed a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a significant step in the strengthening of trade relations between the two nations. This agreement is poised to reshape trade flows, boost key sectors, and streamline logistics and customs operations, benefiting businesses on both sides.

Key Provisions of the UK–India Free Trade Agreement

The UK–India FTA brings several important changes to the trade landscape between the two countries:

  • Tariff Reductions and Eliminations:
    • 99% of Indian exports to the UK will now enter tariff-free, opening up significant opportunities for Indian manufacturers and producers.
    • 90% of UK exports to India will see tariffs reduced or eliminated, with many goods benefiting from this change within the next decade.
    • Indian automotive tariffs have been reduced from 100% to 10%, providing a major boost for the automotive and vehicle parts sectors.
  • Customs Benefits:
    The agreement introduces significant improvements to customs processes that will benefit logistics providers and businesses involved in international trade:
    • Simplified customs procedures will reduce paperwork and streamline processing times at both ends.
    • Faster clearance of goods at ports, reducing delays and improving the overall efficiency of the supply chain.
    • New customs frameworks designed to smooth out trade flows between the UK and India, making the movement of goods more predictable and reliable.
  • Sector-Specific Opportunities:
    Several sectors are expected to benefit directly from the deal, including:
    • Automotive: Reduced tariffs on vehicle exports and parts between the two countries.
    • Food & Drink: Easier access for UK producers to Indian markets, particularly for alcohol, packaged goods, and specialty products.
    • Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences: Both countries will see improvements in access to critical products and services, boosting collaboration in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.
    • Textiles and Apparel: This sector will see reduced barriers to trade, benefiting businesses that import/export garments and textiles.
    • E-commerce and Retail: With easier trade, businesses in the e-commerce sector will have more opportunities for cross-border growth.
    • Technology and Electronics: The agreement will encourage more trade in electronics and tech services, offering a more open market for innovations from both sides.

Customs Procedures and Logistics: A Game Changer

For logistics and customs professionals, the UK–India Free Trade Agreement will bring much-needed improvements to cross-border trade. Simplified customs processes are expected to reduce bottlenecks, which have traditionally delayed shipments at ports. With the introduction of faster clearance times and streamlined paperwork, logistics providers can expect a smoother flow of goods, reducing lead times and increasing reliability in supply chains.

The deal also introduces duty relief programs, such as duty draw-back schemes for UK exporters to India, further encouraging trade and making it more cost-effective. These changes are expected to lead to a more efficient and profitable environment for businesses operating in both markets.

A New Chapter for UK–India Trade Relations

The UK–India Free Trade Agreement represents a major shift in the trade relationship between the two countries. India’s growing economy and the UK’s post-Brexit trade strategy make this deal a critical component of both nations’ future trade plans. For logistics providers, businesses involved in manufacturing, and import/export companies, the agreement presents numerous opportunities to tap into growing markets and optimize supply chain operations.

As trade volumes between the UK and India are set to increase, businesses must remain agile, adapting to the new customs frameworks and enhanced trade opportunities. The deal highlights the UK’s renewed focus on forging global trade relationships and sets a promising tone for further agreements in the future.

Streamline Temporary Exports with an ATA Carnet

When it comes to temporarily exporting goods from the UK to the EU (or beyond), an ATA Carnet is the ultimate passport for your cargo. Whether you’re participating in an international trade show, exhibiting products at a European event, or transporting professional equipment for short-term use abroad, the ATA Carnet saves time, money, and stress at the border.

At Future Forwarding, we specialise in making this process seamless. With years of hands-on experience, our European department has supported countless UK businesses in navigating ATA Carnet requirements and delivering successful exhibitions and temporary exports across the continent.

What is an ATA Carnet?

An ATA Carnet (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) is an international customs document that allows you to move goods temporarily across borders without paying duties, VAT, or needing to complete multiple customs declarations. Think of it as a passport for your products—valid in over 80 countries worldwide.

This document is particularly useful for:

  • Trade fairs and exhibitions
  • Product demonstrations
  • Commercial samples
  • Professional equipment (cameras, tools, instruments, etc.)

As long as no sale takes place and the goods return to the UK within the Carnet’s validity (typically 12 months), you can avoid the administrative and financial burdens normally associated with cross-border shipments.

Why Use an ATA Carnet?

Using an ATA Carnet provides several key advantages:

  • Cost Savings: Avoid paying import duties and taxes in foreign countries.
  • Time Efficiency: Speed through customs with less paperwork and fewer delays.
  • Multi-Country Travel: Use the same document to enter and leave multiple Carnet-accepting countries during the same trip.
  • Peace of Mind: Carnets reduce the risk of your goods being held up or incurring unexpected costs.

The cost of a Carnet depends on the value of the goods you’re exporting, but when you factor in the savings on duties, customs clearance time, and hassle, it’s often the most economical choice for short-term international logistics.

How Future Forward Can Help

At Future Forwarding, we don’t just issue Carnets—we support the entire journey. From the moment you start planning your export, our experienced team will guide you through the process, ensuring your goods are documented correctly and arrive on time.

Here’s how we support our clients:

  • Expert Documentation: We handle the ATA Carnet application, ensuring everything is accurate and compliant with customs regulations.
  • Dedicated Transport: Since goods traveling under a Carnet often need to be moved on a dedicated vehicle, we can arrange tailored transport solutions that align with your schedule and destination.
  • On-the-Ground Support: Our team stays in close contact throughout the process, ensuring smooth transitions at every border.

We’ve worked with companies across a wide range of industries, helping them showcase their products across Europe without delays, hidden fees, or paperwork headaches.

Get in Touch

If you’re planning to temporarily export goods for an event, trade show, or business project, let our European department take the pressure off. Our knowledge of Carnet logistics and European customs requirements means you can focus on your business—while we take care of the rest.

Contact us today at european@ukffcl.com and see how easy temporary exports can be with Future Forwarding.

Read More about ATA Carnets

Liberation Day & Latest Tariff Changes

Latest developments regarding U.S. trade policies

3 April 2025

The recent announcement of new tariffs by President Trump is expected to impact global trade flows, supply chains, and shipping costs, particularly for goods crossing U.S. borders.

Key Tariff Updates

  • 10% Baseline Tariff – Effective April 5, 2025, at 12:01 AM (ET).
  • Reciprocal Tariff Rates – Effective April 9, 2025, at 12:01 AM (ET).

These measures will affect trade between the United States and multiple countries. If your business is engaged in importing or exporting goods to or from the U.S., it is essential to evaluate how these changes may impact your shipments, costs, and logistics strategy.

These new tariffs are in addition to the already in place additional tariffs below:

  • International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) – additional 20% duty on all Chinese manufactured goods
  • Steel and Aluminium 25% tariffs from ALL countries
  • Steel and Aluminium derivative duties
  • Vehicle & Vehicle Parts

Our team is committed to keeping you informed and minimizing disruptions to your operations. If you have any concerns or require assistance in planning for these tariff adjustments, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to provide guidance and support to help you navigate these changes effectively.

Heathrow Airport Closure Impact on Freight Movements

21 March 2025

Note Heathrow Airport is closed today, Friday, March 21, 2025, due to a fire at an electrical substation in Hayes, West London, which has caused a major power outage. Emergency crews are working to resolve the situation, but there is no confirmed timeline for power restoration. This disruption is significantly impacting air freight movements, leading to delays for both imports and exports.

Our team is actively reviewing all affected shipments and exploring alternative solutions where possible. If your consignments are impacted, we will reach out to you directly with updates and contingency plans.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any urgent concerns. We appreciate your patience and will continue to provide updates as the situation develops. +44 161 436 8181

Shipping Alliances Reshape Trade Routes: Delays, Blank Sailings, and Vessel Diversions Expected to Continue

March 2025

The global shipping industry is undergoing a significant transformation as major alliances restructure their operations, leading to widespread disruptions on key trade routes. This restructuring is causing delays, blank sailings, and vessel diversions, leaving both shippers and consumers grappling with uncertainty.

The most notable shift has been the dissolution of the long-standing 2M alliance between MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and A.P. Moller-Maersk, which is set to end in 2025. In its place, new alliances such as the Gemini Cooperation, formed between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, are taking center stage. While these changes are intended to streamline operations, they have resulted in a slew of scheduling adjustments, causing confusion and congestion.

Scheduling Chaos and Port Congestion

As shipping alliances realign their schedules, shippers have reported discrepancies in arrival times, leading to confusion across the industry. Some carriers, even within the same alliance, are listing different transit times for the same vessel, contributing to widespread scheduling confusion. Ports, especially in Asia, are experiencing severe congestion, with ships waiting up to three days for a berth, exacerbating the backlog of containers.

The result? Delayed shipments, longer waiting times at major ports like Shanghai, and disrupted schedules that have left many vessels stranded at terminals.

Blank Sailings and Diversions

Another side effect of the alliance shifts has been the rise in blank sailings and diversions. Blank sailings, where a scheduled voyage is canceled due to insufficient cargo or other operational reasons, have increased across the Asia-Europe route, further straining supply chains.

The geopolitical instability in the Red Sea has also prompted several shipping companies to divert vessels around the Cape of Good Hope instead of passing through the Suez Canal, resulting in longer transit times and increased freight rates. Attacks in the region, particularly by Iran-backed Houthi rebels, have heightened concerns over vessel safety, prompting carriers to adopt this detour as a precautionary measure.

Declining Service Reliability

As a result of these scheduling changes, the shipping industry has seen a significant decline in service reliability. On-time performance, which was once a benchmark for efficiency, has plummeted for many carriers. Some are reporting on-time rates as low as 55%, a far cry from the 90% reliability target that many had been able to achieve in the past.

To combat this, the Gemini Cooperation aims to improve on-time reliability by reducing port calls and utilizing larger vessels on key trade routes. The new alliance is targeting a return to 90% on-time performance by optimizing operations and adapting to current market conditions.

The Road Ahead

With these ongoing disruptions, stakeholders across the shipping industry are bracing for continued challenges. While the restructuring of alliances is seen as a necessary step to adapt to evolving market demands, businesses and consumers must prepare for fluctuating schedules and unpredictable freight rates.

As shipping companies continue to adapt to these changes, flexibility and vigilance will be key for those relying on global trade networks. With ongoing geopolitical uncertainties and shifting market strategies, the next few months will likely be marked by further disruptions, and companies must remain agile to navigate the changing landscape.

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