UK Update: Adoption of Updated BIFA STC from 5 January 2026
BIFA Releases Updated Standard Trading Conditions 2025
The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has issued a new edition of its Standard Trading Conditions (BIFA STC), which will come into effect from January 2026.
In line with this, we will be adopting the updated BIFA Standard Terms and Conditions from 5 January 2026. From this date, all services we provide in the UK will be subject to the updated terms, which replace any previous edition.
What This Means for UK Clients
The BIFA STC set the standard for freight forwarding, logistics, transport, and related services across the UK. They outline the rights, responsibilities, and limitations for both the freight forwarder and the client. By adopting the updated BIFA Standard Terms and Conditions, we ensure our operations remain compliant with UK industry standards and BIFA guidance.
Important note for shipments under previous contracts:
If you accepted a quotation referencing an earlier edition of the BIFA STC (e.g., 2021 edition) before 5 January 2026, that edition of the Terms and Conditions will continue to apply to that shipment, even if it arrives in the UK after 5 January. The date of delivery or service does not change the contract terms.
From 5 January 2026 onwards, all new quotations, bookings, and services in the UK will reference the updated BIFA Standard Terms and Conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions – UK Clients
A copy is available here on our website
Or on request, please contact your usual UK account contact for assistance.
BIFA has released an updated edition of its Standard Trading Conditions (BIFA STC), which we will adopt from 5 January 2026.
The updated BIFA Standard Terms and Conditions apply to all services provided in the UK from January 2026 onwards.
Yes. The new BIFA STC replace any prior editions for services booked or contracted on or after 5 January 2026.
All freight forwarding, logistics, transport, warehousing, and related services in the UK are covered under the updated BIFA Standard Terms and Conditions.
If your contract was accepted before 5 January 2026 under a previous edition of the BIFA STC, that edition will continue to govern the shipment, even if it arrives in the UK after 5 January.
No action is required. The updated terms will automatically apply to services booked in the UK from the effective date.
Our UK team is ready to assist. Please reach out to your normal point of contact for clarification.
How We’re Updating Our UK Processes
To ensure a smooth transition in the UK:
- All UK quotations, confirmations, and customer documentation issued from 5 January 2026 will reference the updated BIFA STC
- References to previous editions will no longer be used in the UK
- The updated Terms and Conditions will be available on request
- Our website and UK customer portals will reflect the updated BIFA Standard Terms and Conditions from January 2026