How New US Tariffs Impact UK Imports & Exports

The latest changes in US import tariffs—including a 25% tariff on steel and 10% on aluminum—are set to have significant effects on UK businesses trading with the United States. These measures will impact both exports to the U.S. and imports from the U.S., affecting supply chains and pricing structures.

Impact on UK Exports to the USA

Steel & Aluminium Exports

Affected The new tariffs will make UK steel and aluminium exports to the U.S. more expensive, putting pressure on industries such as automotive, construction, and aerospace. Businesses reliant on these materials may need to explore alternative routes or suppliers to mitigate costs.

Potential Expansion of Tariffs 

While current tariffs target metals, there is concern that the U.S. may extend them to other UK exports such as machinery, food products, or manufactured goods. Reviewing supply contracts and logistics strategies is advisable.

Impact on UK Imports from the USA

Higher Costs for American Goods

Should the UK introduce retaliatory tariffs, products imported from the U.S.—such as machinery, agricultural goods, and technology—could see price increases. Businesses relying on U.S. imports may need to assess cost implications and seek alternative sourcing options.

Supply Chain Disruptions 

With increased uncertainty in trade negotiations, logistics delays and cost fluctuations are possible. Flexible shipping solutions can help safeguard supply chain resilience.

What’s Next?

The UK government is engaging in discussions to secure trade exemptions and protect British exporters. However, businesses should proactively prepare by diversifying supply sources and adjusting logistics plans to accommodate potential delays or cost increases.

Full Border Controls on EU Imports Starting April 30, 2025

Starting April 30, 2025, the UK government will implement full border controls on EU imports, including all sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) goods. This change will impact businesses across the UK, as it introduces new documentation requirements, customs procedures, and potential delays at the border. To ensure your supply chain runs smoothly, it’s crucial to prepare for these upcoming changes. Here’s what you need to know:

Additional Documentation Requirements

With the introduction of full border controls, businesses will need to provide detailed documentation for their imports. For SPS goods—such as food, plants, and animals—this includes:

Health and safety certificates
Phytosanitary certificates for plant-based products
Importer declarations and customs paperwork

Make sure that all necessary paperwork is ready and accurate before your goods reach the UK border to avoid delays or potential fines. It’s advisable to work closely with suppliers and customs brokers to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Expect Customs Delays

The introduction of more thorough checks at UK borders means that customs clearance may take longer than before. The increased scrutiny of imports, especially SPS goods, will likely result in delays as goods undergo more detailed inspections.

To minimize the impact on your operations, plan for longer lead times in your supply chain and keep customers informed about potential delays. You may also want to explore options for customs pre-clearance or use trusted traders to expedite the process where possible.

Supply Chain Adjustments

To stay ahead of the curve, take the following actions to adapt your supply chain:

Communicate with suppliers and partners: Ensure that all parties involved in the supply chain, including freight forwarders and customs brokers, are aware of the upcoming changes. This may involve updating contracts or agreements to reflect new responsibilities for documentation and compliance.

Invest in new systems or processes: You may need to invest in new systems or software to handle the increased volume of documentation and ensure compliance with new customs regulations.

Conduct a supply chain audit: Review your current import and export processes to identify potential bottlenecks or areas where delays might occur. Work with your logistics teams to develop solutions.

Compliance with SPS Regulations

Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) goods—such as food, plants, and animal products—will face even stricter checks under the new border controls. These products will require:

Inspections upon arrival
Certification to prove they meet UK health and safety standards

This means that businesses importing SPS goods must ensure their products are fully compliant with these requirements, which may include updating their sourcing practices or adjusting shipping procedures.

Conclusion

With the UK’s implementation of full border controls on EU imports set for April 30, 2025, businesses need to act now to avoid disruptions to their supply chains. By preparing for additional documentation requirements, customs delays, and stricter SPS regulations, you can minimize the impact of these changes and ensure smooth operations. The key to success is early preparation, clear communication with your supply chain partners, and staying informed about regulatory updates.

Prepare today to stay ahead of the curve and avoid costly disruptions in the future!

New! UK Integrated Online Tariff

We understand how important it is to stay informed about the latest customs regulations and tariff classifications. The UK Integrated Online Tariff, provided by HMRC, is a crucial tool for businesses involved in importing and exporting goods. It helps determine commodity codes, duty rates, and trade regulations for goods moving in and out of the UK.

For the latest updates, guidance, and access to tariff search tools, please refer directly to HMRC’s Trade Tariff News Bulletin:

Trade Tariff News Bulletin – HMRC
UK Integrated Online Tariff – HMRC

Stay up to date with classification changes, duty updates, and trade policy developments to ensure smooth and compliant shipments.

Régime 42 & Régime 40

Shipping goods from the UK to the EU doesn’t have to be complicated. By using customs procedures like Régime 42 and Régime 40, you can speed up delivery times, reduce costs, and simplify the process for your customers—especially when shipping through France.

What is Régime 42?

Régime 42 allows goods to be imported into France and then shipped to another EU country without import VAT being charged upfront.

Why use it?

No import VAT or duty for the end customer
Import VAT is postponed—better for cash flow
Quicker border clearance and delivery
Easy to set up—your EU customer just needs a VAT number in the destination country
Any valid EU EORI number can be used

You, as the exporter, are responsible for paying any applicable duties before the goods are shipped.

What is Régime 40?

Régime 40 is used when a French company acts as the importer of record. This means the shipment is cleared in France, and the goods can be delivered anywhere in the EU—even if the final destination country doesn’t have a VAT registration.

Why use it?

No need for VAT registration in the final country
Simplifies EU-wide distribution
Smooth customs clearance through France
Works well if you have a French partner/importer

As with Régime 42, any duties must be paid before shipping.

Want to know which option is right for you?

Our European team can help you figure out the best approach for your shipments. Whether you’re delivering directly to customers or distributing across multiple EU countries, Régime 42 and 40 could save you time and money.

Contact Katie & Johnny at: european@ukffcl.com

Category: UK Information