UK encourages businesses to prepare for Brexit
The UK’s HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has further encouraged UK businesses to prepare for the UK’s departure from the European Union (EU) on 29 March 2019. The HMRC states, ‘Leaving the EU with a deal remains the Government’s top priority, however the government and businesses should continue to plan for every possible outcome including no deal.’
Specifically, HMRC encourages businesses that trade with the EU to register for an UK Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number. An EORI number will allow businesses that only trade with the EU to continue to import and export goods after the 29th of March, if the UK leaves the EU with no deal. An EORI number is also needed prior to applying for authorizations that will make customs processes easier.
HMRC reiterates their advice:
for VAT-registered businesses that trade only with the EU in their letter.
on customs declarations in Declaring your goods at customs if the UK leaves the EU with no deal
on Brexit preparatory measures for businesses in Prepare your business for the UK leaving the EU