BIFAlink is BIFA's monthly magazine covering issues of importance for the logistics and supply chain industry.
The magazine of the British International Freight Association September 2025 BIFA link Government trade strategy: Implications for the freight sector
INSIDE: New Scotland representative • EU entry/exit system • Electric charging grants • BIFA Awards winner pro fi le • Cargoes of concern • UN adopts draft NCD convention
Follow us @BIFA
Issue: 421
Steve Parker’s Column
The football season has started E ven as a football fan, as I sit down to write this in August, I can’t believe the new season is under way. It seems to get earlier and earlier. I sort of support two teams. My granddad took me to Chelsea as a youngster, and that remains my first love. But for many years, because it was closer to home, I had a season ticket at Reading. At the time of preparing this, Reading had played three league games and lost all of them – it could be a long season! I like the concept that the season ends and then we all start again. My many years in the corporate world taught me that even if you had a good financial year, at the start of the next one it was all back to zero and off we went again. Both the team at BIFA and I are constantly working to see what it is we can do to help our Members navigate through their own business years and to prepare for the next. We want our Members to be successful. Rule changes To do that I would urge you to watch for rule changes! Unlike football, where rule changes tend to come at the start of the season, new rules within international trade and business can be implemented at any time. We will share them in the most part through BIFA TV and I encourage you to subscribe to the BIFA TV YouTube channel to ensure that you do not miss any updates. On the subject of BIFA TV, I have just had the latest viewing figures and am pleased to see the numbers watching and the length of time they do so is increasing. We don’t have a transfer window either, people move within our industry all the time, and we do our best to ensure that learning assets are in place to assist you in keeping all staff fully trained and possessing the highest skills possible. The BIFA Bitesize eLearning modules, just one of your membership benefits, are seeing good numbers of people completing the various courses. Business Leaders Forum Does your team have a manager, a head coach, or a director of football? The BIFA Business Leaders Forum, on 1 October in central London, is designed for those personnel who fall into the management category. At the Business Leaders Forum they will learn about issues affecting the industry, new developments on the horizon, and of course network with other leaders. And, if you fancy winning BIFA’s equivalent of the Premier League or FA Cup, make sure you enter this year’s BIFA Freight Service Awards. Unlike the Premier League, there is plenty of evidence from the past 37 years to suggest you don’t have to be one of the big players to stand a chance in any of the categories. But, as the old saying goes, you have to be in it to win it. So, get working on your entries now. It is our hope that if you engage with all the above, you are less likely to end the game with PENALTIES!
BIFAlink is the official magazine of the British International Freight Association Redfern House, Browells Lane, Feltham TW13 7EP Tel: 020 8844 2266 (A company limited by guarantee. Registered in England: 00391973. VAT Registration: 216476363) Director General Steve Parker s.parker@bifa.org Member Policy, Compliance & External Affairs Director Pawel Jarza p.jarza@bifa.org Member Support Director Spencer Stevenson s.stevenson@bifa.org Member Services Director Carl Hobbis c.hobbis@bifa.org Member Engagement Director Denise Hill d.hill@bifa.org Senior Policy Advisor – Ocean & Legal matters Robert Windsor r.windsor@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Advisor – Customs Igor Popovics i.popovics@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Advisor – Sustainable Logistics Mike Jones m.jones@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Advisor – Sustainable Logistics Jamie McKean j.mckean@bifa.org Communications Manager Natalie Pitts n.pitts@bifa.org Editorial Co-ordinator Sharon Hammond s.hammond@bifa.org Membership Supervisor Sarah Milton s.milton@bifa.org Web site: www.bifa.org E-mail: bifa@bifa.org Published by Park Lane Publishing peter@parklanepublishingltd.com Contributors Steve Parker, Robert Windsor, Spencer Stevenson, Carl Hobbis, Sharon Hammond, Igor Popovics, Denise Hill, Mike Jones, Pawel Jarza, Natalie Pitts Note to media: If you wish to use items in this magazine that are older than one month, please contact the editorial co- ordinator to ensure that the item in question still reflects the current circumstances. Please be advised that BIFA DOES NOT OFFER LEGAL ADVICE. BIFA is not a law firm and the authors of this publication are not legally qualified and do not have any legal training. The guidance and assistance set out herein are based on BIFA’s own experience with the issues concerned and should not be in any circumstances regarded or relied upon as legal advice. It is strongly recommended that anyone considering further action based on the information contained in this publication should seek the advice of a qualified professional.
Director General
September 2025 | 3
www.bifa.org
Industry News
Ian Matheson , from Impress Communications, reviews some recent news that might impact on Members’ business. Don’t miss Ian’s weekly news round up on BIFA TV, which can be seen on our You Tube channel. Subscribe by scanning the QR code.
Shippers send more goods by air in rush to beat tariffs
the Obligatory Logistics Envelope (ELO) transition period until autumn 2025, with the exact end date due to be confirmed during September. ON THE OCEAN In August, Marie Maersk joined a growing list of containership cargo fire casualties, putting crew lives at risk. The incident happened as the report was issued into the explosion on the YM Mobility a year earlier. Xeneta has acquired maritime and supply chain data firm eeSea, aiming to enhance its platform for containerised freight procurement. The integration adds eeSea’s global schedule, transit time and reliability data to Xeneta’s existing freight rate intelligence, enabling shippers to manage contracts and suppliers based on service levels and cost. The containership orderbook has reached a record high of 10.4 million teu, according to data from Asian container consultancy Linerlytica, with the orderbook ratio rising to 31.7% of the fleet – its highest level since 2010. The huge orderbook has led Linerlytica to forecast that container shipping will face a supply/demand imbalance through to the end of the decade. Service between Agadir and Casablanca to the south UK and the Netherlands. Specially designed to meet the needs of the fresh produce sector, it aims to offer an alternative to road transport. IN BUSINESS Samskip has launched a weekly Moroccan Reefer Ti Insight says that the growing impact of rising tariffs, which are dampening international trade flows and increasing costs for shippers, will lead to a 1.1% contraction in the global freight forwarding market in 2025.
IN THE AIR Global air cargo volumes in July climbed 5% year-on-year as front loading continued and more shippers opted to send their goods by air to avoid the impact of tariffs, Xeneta reported in mid- August. Xeneta’s analysis for July was a surprise turnaround from IATA’s report of weakened air cargo volumes due to tariffs in June, which saw just 0.8% year-on- year growth. IndiGo, which flies bellyhold cargo as well as passengers, is stretching its wings by launching a new cargo service
One Air is set to start a scheduled two-way airfreight operation in September using a Boeing 747-400 freighter connecting East Midlands Airport, Liege, Dubai World Central and Hong Kong. It will offer four scheduled flights a week. The role of narrow-body freighter aircraft in the air cargo industry has progressed quickly in recent years, largely due to the introduction of new-generation freighters tailored to meet current logistics demands. Certain aircraft have been introduced with more fuel-efficient engines and optimised cargo configurations, making them ideal for short to medium- haul operations while at the same time reducing environmental impact. OVERLAND AND ACROSS BORDERS Container transport on the China–Europe rail route, including both the northern route and the Middle Corridor, is trailing last year’s volumes, World Cargo News has reported. Volatile maritime shipping rates appear to be a key factor behind the slowdown. ITN Productions is making a Channel 4 documentary series about the Port of Dover and is looking for British-based companies that will be importing or exporting unusual or distinctive goods through Daniella.baldock@itn.co.uk if you have an interesting load on the move. The French authorities have made the decision to extend the port before mid- September. Contact
between Mumbai and London Heathrow using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
4 | September 2025
www.bifa.org
agency sector management
Outstanding customs and freight management software for freight forwarders. Backed by unrivalled support. Promoting your views and protecting your interests with government and industry. All this, owned by you. Be part of something bigger
.
Air ▪ Ocean ▪ Road ▪ Imports ▪ Exports ▪ C ustoms declarations ▪ Worksheet automation Customs eTariff ▪ CFSP management ▪ Customs Warehousing ▪ Duty management Transit (NCTS) management ▪ Transit (CT) Guarantee management ▪ Import ETSF management ▪ Export DEP management ▪ Job costing and invoicing ▪ Purchase invoice reconciliation ▪ Air waybills and eAWB ▪ Bills of lading ▪ Barcoded cargo labels Consignment security declarations ▪ Collection and Delivery notes ▪ Consolidation management and Manifests ▪ eDocument management ▪ Archiving ▪ Limitless integration ▪ Limitless automation
asm (uk) ltd @asmukltd
www.asm.org.uk admin@asm.org.uk service desk
Contents
IN THIS ISSUE Click on the page to see full story
Page 4 Shippers send goods by air in rush to beat tariffs
Page 9 Air cargo body focuses on landside ef fi ciency
Page 3 The football season has started
Page 8 Jack joins as Scotland regional representative
Page 12 Verifying the identity of directors and PSCs
Page 14 Government strategy: Implications for freight
Page 10 Update on new EU entry/exit system
Page 13 Grant support for depot electric charging
1 How can you mitigate these risks?
KNOW YOUR CUSTOMER • Vet shippers and consignees carefully • Verify their identity and resources, and cross-check information to ensure validity • Confirm the authority of the individuals you are communicating with • Be wary of unexpected approaches from unknown service providers • Be prepared to decline business which looks suspicious • If deemed high risk request security from the shipper (cash deposit/LOI)
ASSESS CARGO ABANDONMENT RISK • Develop management controls to identify and monitor shipments with high abandonment risk • Beware low-value cargoes, such as waste, scrap and goods for recycling • Closely monitor high-value or perishable goods • Watch out for countries with known restrictions on the import of certain cargoes • Take extra care with shipments to high-risk jurisdictions • Check sales contracts have been finalised, not ‘shipped to the order of…’
2
COMMUNICATE CLEARLY • Ensure contract terms and conditions clearly define the responsibilities of all parties • Specify timeframes for collection and consequences of non-compliance • Maintain regular contact with consignees and notify them promptly of cargo arrival • If collection delayed, issue a formal collection demand to both the shipper and consignee • The timing for communications to commence will be dependent on the nature and value of the cargo • Repeat collection demand within 45 days • Send final collection demand within 90 days and warn of cargo sale or disposal at their cost • Ensure all communications are recorded
3
4
ACT QUICKLY • If cargo remains unclaimed after the period specified under local regulations or port tariffs, immediately tif li bilit i d l t th iti
Page 18 Keeping aerospace aloft
Page 20 Mitigating the risk of abandoned cargo
Page 16 Cargoes of concern: hidden dangers
Page 19 UN adopts draft convention on NCDs
Page 22 In logistics for the long haul
Page 24 BIFA Awards: what the judges are looking for
Page 22 A lifelong passion for freight
Page 23 Your fi rst call for industry information
6 | September 2025
www.bifa.org
BIFA Website News
NEWS FROM THE BIFA WEBSITE – in case you missed them, recent news stories posted to the BIFA website can be accessed here. Click on the image for the full story
September 2025 | 7
www.bifa.org
BIFA News
Jack joins as Scotland regional representative
Diary date Do you have your
ticket for the next
If you are a regular viewer of BIFA TV you will have seen the recent episode introducing Jack Rice (pictured) as the new face of BIFA in Scotland. Jack has taken on the role of regional representative and has already begun to get to know members in the area. Jack said: “I’ve been working in the freight forwarding and customs brokerage industry for over 15 years, currently as the director of Caledonian Freight Ltd. “My passion lies in driving efficiency and compliance within logistics, and I’ve been fortunate to lead Caledonian Freight through a period of technological innovation, including the integration of AI to enhance our processes.
customs policy group after raising concerns about a Scottish port being overlooked by HMRC during the transition to CDS. “As the Scottish Rep for BIFA, I’m excited to help build a stronger forwarding community in Scotland and give local issues a voice at a national level.” BIFA Members in Scotland are invited to forthcoming regional member meetings on: • Thursday 2 October – Glasgow • Tuesday 4 November – Aberdeen Please click the relevant link to register your place. To get in touch with Jack, email j.rice@bifa.org
BIFA Business Leaders Forum on Wednesday 1 October? The agenda is shaping up with a range of speakers covering topics from HR issues, border security activity, insurance, optimising operational processes and news direct from the Labour Party National Conference. This event is aimed at senior management, delivering the information they need to navigate the issues of today and prepare for the coming year. Limited spaces are still available –, sign up today. https://bifa.org/event/busin ess-leaders-forum-5/
“Whilst I’ve always attended regional meetings, I became more involved with BIFA in early 2024, joining the
YFN members visit Peel Ports Liverpool
On a wet Thursday in early August, seven members of the Northwest Young Forwarder Network (YFN), and the not so young BIFA regional representative Andrew Melton, enjoyed a tour of the Liverpool Seaforth facilities. Members assembled in the logistics building for a short presentation about Peel Ports Group’s developments and activities at Seaforth, before boarding a minibus to view the facilities first hand. A visit to the ro-ro area was
followed by viewing the original container terminal where the transAtlantic ACL vessels berth to discharge and reload. Next was the new deepwater terminal on the riverside, which can accommodate the largest container vessels currently in service, and an escorted visit to the computerised control centre where container movements are monitored. Our thanks go to Peel Ports for providing this opportunity to the YFN.
8 | September 2025
www.bifa.org
BIFA News
Introducing Chris Packwood Chris Packwood has been appointed
BIFA Member Engagement Advisor with a remit
focused on supporting issues raised by individual corporate members. Chris brings to the role more than three decades of experience in the freight forwarding and logistics industry. As the former managing director of Geodis UK, he is widely respected for his strategic insight, deep industry knowledge, and long-standing commitment to improving standards across the freight and logistics sector. In this newly created advisory capacity, Chris will work closely with BIFA’s executive team, network of regional representatives, and board of directors, providing expert guidance and dedicated support on matters raised by corporate members. His role is designed to strengthen BIFA’s ability to respond to Member concerns with tailored, practical solutions, while also enhancing the Association’s engagement with industry stakeholders.
Air cargo body focuses on landside ef fi ciency
The Air Cargo Community Advisory Body — established by BIFA to replace several functions of the former CCS- UK User Group and ensure the freight community has a strong voice in shaping the future of Heathrow’s cargo operations — held its second meeting in late July, following its successful launch earlier this year. This brought together key stakeholders from across the airfreight and logistics sector to continue to help shape the future of cargo operations at Heathrow Airport. The latest session built on the momentum of the inaugural meeting held in May, which saw over 75 representatives — including freight forwarders, airlines, Heathrow Airport Ltd, HMRC and ground handlers —
convene at the BT Tower to initiate a new phase of collaboration focused on the airport’s ambitious cargo estate redevelopment plans. The latest meeting centred on efforts to improve Heathrow’s landside efficiency. Attendees received updates from Heathrow Airport Ltd on ongoing developments at the airport, and from BT/CCS-UK regarding the selection and implementation of the Advanced Information System (AIS) as the preferred solution for a new slot booking system for landside freight movements. The meeting also highlighted the new trial of a dedicated truck parking facility to better accommodate long-distance arrivals. This facility offers a safe holding area outside the
main cargo estate and includes welfare amenities for drivers. The session concluded with a dynamic group exercise where delegates explored operational risks and challenges related to slot booking implementation from the perspectives of freight forwarders, airlines, transit shed operators and hauliers. interested in contributing to the Advisory Body’s work are encouraged to contact Andy Cooke at a.cooke@bifa.org If you would like to find out more and sign up to AIS, please contact Claudia Carley at claudia.carley@bt.com Get involved Industry participants
The Limits of Liability for Carriers
In association with
By sea – Hague Visby rules (2 SDR): £2.03 per kg £676.28 per package
By air – Warsaw Convention (17 SDR): £17.24 per kg
BIFA STC: (2 SDR): £2.03 per kg
By road – CMR (8.33 SDR): £8.45 per kg
Insurance for the Marine & Logistics industries
(The SDR rate on 21 August 2025,
By air – Montreal Convention (26 SDR): £26.37 per kg
according to the IMF website, was 1.01441)
+44 (0) 1628 532613
macbeths.co.uk
September 2025 | 9
www.bifa.org
Policy & Compliance
The EU is set to introduce both its EU Entry/Exit System (EES) and European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) for entry into the Schengen area. While there have been concerns over potential delays at terminals, a new app may be able to help prevent congestion Update on new EU entry/exit system
B IFA has kept Members advised of the long-delayed implementation of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) which, according to the latest guidance, is due to go live on 12 October 2025. Just to remind the reader, the EES is a new digital border management system being introduced by the European Union for non-EU citizens travelling to the Schengen area. It will replace the current system of manual passport stamping with automated biometric data collection (fingerprints and facial images). This system will track entries, exits and overstays for non-EU nationals within the Schengen area. The EES links with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals, including those from the UK, travelling to any of the 30 European countries. It is believed that the ETIAS will be launched a few months after the EES, probably in Q3 2026. Perhaps the most important point to note is that the ETIAS is linked to a traveller’s passport, the number of which is also included in the EES. Once issued, the ETIAS is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays, normally for up to 90 days in
any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions. The two systems will work in conjunction to enhance border security and streamline travel processes. The EES monitors the movement, whilst the ETIAS confirms that the individual traveller is exempt from visa requirements. Mobile app One concern regarding the EES is that until recently it appeared that all the relevant data had to be submitted when the passenger arrived at the point of departure, potentially creating delays at terminals and causing issues for HGV drivers engaged in international trade. However, Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, has developed a mobile application called The Travel to Europe app which will allow non-EU travellers to pre- register their travel document and facial recognition data for EES prior arriving at the border crossing point.
Implementation of EES rests with individual EU member states, which each have discretion on whether to adopt the app. BIFA will update Members as soon as further information becomes available regarding roll-out of the Travel to Europe app. The first confirmed go-live location for the app will be Arlanda Airport, Sweden, during 2025. Concurrently, Frontex is in discussion with the Dutch, French and Italian authorities to implement pilot schemes at selected major entry points in 2026. In addition, Portugal, Greece and Hungary have expressed interest in using the system. It will be the responsibility of the member state to integrate the app with its national systems, and it is thought that it will be particularly beneficial in reducing delays at high volume crossing points by making them smoother and faster. Additional information relating to EES, ETIAS and the app is available at: • GOV.UK website – EU Entry/Exit System – GOV.UK • Europa website: https://travel- europe.europa.eu/en/ees
“ With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays, normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period
10 | September 2025
www.bifa.org
Policy & Compliance
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 introduced the concept of mandatory identity veri fi cation (IDV) for all UK companies. BIFA has highlighted this requirement to Members in the past and reproduces here a Guidance Note published by Birketts detailing the changes, how they will impact you and how you need to prepare. Whilst IDV is not mandatory at this time (we are currently in a ‘voluntary’ phase), it will be important to take early compliance steps to avoid the serious implications of non-compliance. Verifying the identity of directors and PSCs at Companies House
Who needs to verify their identity? T he following people associated with your their identity: • Directors; • Persons with significant control (PSCs) who are notified to Companies House under the PSC regime – and which includes a relevant officer of a Relevant Legal Entity (RLE); • Anyone within your company who may make filings at Companies House on your behalf (in addition to the filing work completed by company will need to verify others on your behalf, eg accountants) – we do not anticipate this particular requirement taking effect until spring 2026. Timing Mandatory IDV of directors, PSCs and RLEs is due to take effect “by autumn 2025” (no precise date has yet been announced). Once in force the implications for your company are: • Newly appointed directors of your company (those appointed after mandatory IDV takes effect) will not be able to act unless their identity has first been verified; • It will not be possible to incorporate a new company (should you wish to do so) unless the directors have first been identity verified; • For all existing directors of your company, their identity must be verified by the time of filing of the next confirmation statement (CS01) after the mandatory requirements come into force.
Ways to verify identity There are two routes to IDV. • Via Companies House: this is a free-of-charge service and will require individuals to go through the GOV.UK One Login, which will then direct the individual to verify their identity online either via the mobile phone app route or web browser route. The individual will need to provide identity evidence such as biometric passport, UK photo driving licence or UK biometric residence permit. More information can be found on the government site Verify Your Identity for Companies House. • Using an Authorised Corporate Service Provider: You can ask a registered Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), also known as a Companies House authorised agent, to verify a person’s identity. Various corporate governance/ compliance entities are set up to provide this service and will charge a fee per individual they IDV. ACSPs can often co-ordinate the IDV of a group of named individuals and report back to a key company contact on progress; for some companies this may be a useful add-on service. Birketts is not registered as an ACSP to complete IDV, although we can supply the
Note, if a director sits on multiple company boards then it is the filing of the earliest CS01 which mandates when identity verification should take place for that director. We recommend early compliance by directors well in advance of this CS01 filing date; • Existing PSCs/RLEs will also need to be identity verified within 14/28 days respectively of an ‘appointed day’ (date yet to be announced). Newly notified PSCs/RLEs (whether on incorporation or otherwise) will also need to complete identity verification within 14/28 days Implications of failure to comply An individual who fails to complete mandatory identity verification within the correct timeframe will commit a criminal offence. Importantly, the company and each of its officers will also commit an offence if a director continues to act as a director when their identity has not been verified in the relevant timeframe. Companies are not liable for the non- compliance of their PSCs/RLEs. respectively of receiving a mandatory notification from Companies House.
“ An individual who fails to complete mandatory identity veri fi cation within the correct timeframe will commit a criminal offence
12 | September 2025
www.bifa.org
Policy & Compliance
names of some providers we are aware of in the market. What happens when a person has completed IDV? Once a person has successfully verified their identity, Companies House will issue them with a unique identifier number (otherwise known as a ‘personal code’) which they should keep safe and only disclose in limited circumstances. Evidence of this personal code will in future be key in order for companies to: • File future confirmation statements (you will need to confirm that all directors’ identities have been verified); • File an AP01 for a newly appointed director (again confirmation of identity verification will be required). Personal codes of PSCs (including RLEs) will also in future be required for various PSC filings though, if not supplied, Companies House will make a formal request of the relevant individual direct. In due course we anticipate that the Companies House registry will also be annotated to indicate that a person’s identity has been verified. What you need to do now It will be important to complete the following steps now: • Ensure all your directors are aware of the IDV requirements and have relevant identity evidence to complete this process; • Decide how you wish to proceed with IDV: (i) directors using the free of charge Companies House service, or (ii) directors using an ACSP (or the company appointing the ACSP) to manage this process. We strongly recommend that directors commence IDV in the current voluntary period and before compliance becomes mandatory in the autumn of 2025. Since this article was fi rst published by Birketts, the commencement date for IDV has been con fi rmed as 18 November 2025. BIFA acknowledges Matthew Stratton of Birketts (Matthew.Stratton@birketts.co.uk) as the author of this article and thanks Birketts for permission to reproduce it here.
Grant support available for depot electric charging
The Department for Transport (DFT) has announced support for haulage and van operators to install electric vehicle charging points in their depots. The Depot Charging Scheme, part of a broader £63 million initiative to boost Britain’s electric vehicle market and assist the road sector to play its part in decarbonising the economy, has a total fund of £30 million dedicated to helping businesses install charging points at their depots. It has been argued that one inhibitor to adopting electric vehicles is the cost of installing electric charging points in business depots. The funding is available to help businesses invest in the installation of electric vehicle charge-points at operator depots. The scheme is open to fleets across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Who quali fi es To qualify, you must own, lease or order at least one battery electric van or HGV and provide evidence of this as part of your application. The scheme covers up to 75% of the costs of installing charge points, up to a maximum of £1 million for all
sites across the country. In addition, installation of the charge points must be completed at the relevant site(s) by 31 March 2026. The other important consideration is that there must be sufficient grid capacity at the site(s) to support charging by 31 March 2026. How to apply BIFA encourages Members to take advantage of the Depot Charging Scheme. Further details of the eligibility criteria, and on how to apply, can be found at Depot Charging Scheme – GOV-UK Find a grant . Applications for this scheme must be completed by 4 pm on 28 November – however, it may close earlier if the funds are exhausted. The other scheme supporting the purchase of electric vans and HGVs is available through the plug-in- van-and-truck-grant-1. Applications for this scheme close on 31 March 2026. If you have any specific queries about the Depot Charging Scheme, then please direct your queries to: ggms_depot_cs@cabinetoffice.go v.uk, who is administering the scheme for the DfT.
“ We strongly recommend that directors commence IDV in the current voluntary period and before compliance becomes mandatory in the autumn of 2025
September 2025 | 13
www.bifa.org
Policy & Compliance
Government trade strategy: Implications for the freight sector
A new industrial strategy aimed at boosting UK trade presents both opportunities and challenges for the freight forwarding sector
T he UK government’s new industrial strategy, published in June, sets out a plan to strengthen the nation’s competitive position in global trade. The main aim of the strategy is to boost exports and, in particular, to address the long-standing weaknesses in goods trade. For the freight forwarding industry and BIFA Members this represents potentially an opportunity and a challenge at the same time. Increased trade activity will bring higher demand for customs expertise, efficient supply chain management, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing policy measures. The strategy builds on the recognition that post- Brexit trade patterns have shifted significantly. Government analysis acknowledges the persistent decline in export of goods, contrasting with a steady growth in export of services. This separation led to the decision to prioritise investing in manufacturing, advanced technology and infrastructure to make UK goods more competitive internationally. Expanding business The aim is to support businesses to trade and grow with investment in the Customs Declaration Service, better integration of government systems, and tangible improvements to services at the border. It also notes the voluntary standards for customs intermediaries, seeks to agree sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) simplifications with the EU, and refers to delivering a Single Trade Window to create a modern, streamlined UK border. These measures are seen as a solution to reduce friction, lower costs and improve the UK’s attractiveness as a trading partner. This policy direction seems to have been influenced by the trade performance since the UK left the EU and the transition period ended. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) implemented in January 2021 marked a new era for UK trade flows. The Aston University Unbound: UK Trade Post-Brexit report (2024) used modelling to compare actual performance with a “no-Brexit” scenario. It found a sustained decline in UK-EU trade between 2021 and 2023, with exports down over a quarter and imports falling by nearly a third. Export diversity narrowed sharply, and the gap between actual and projected trade widened over time. UK exporters have increasingly shifted towards non-EU markets, while EU exporters have largely maintained their UK presence. Official statistics from the Office of National Statistics and the government’s UK Trade in Numbers platform confirm this mixed picture. Goods imports from the EU
rose sharply in the years after Brexit before easing slightly in 2024, while services
imports have grown steadily year-on-year. On the export side, goods trade peaked in 2022 before two years of decline, whereas services exports have increased consistently, driven by business, professional and technology services. Interestingly, in 2024 the US became the UK’s largest export market,
“ The Aston University report found a sustained decline in UK-EU trade
between 2021 and 2023, with exports
down over a quarter and imports falling by nearly a third
14 | September 2025
www.bifa.org
Policy & Compliance
UK exports goods and services UK imports goods and services
(from https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/uk-trade-in-numbers/uk-trade-in-numbers-web-version#uk- trade-in-numbers-introduction)
ahead of Germany and Ireland. This shift underlines the diversification of trade relationships but also highlights the relative decline in the EU’s share of UK exports. Additionally, reports say that by May 2025 goods made up just over 40% of UK exports, the lowest proportion on record, while services reached a record share. Contributing factors include Brexit frictions, global price movements and reduced manufacturing competitiveness. The government’s strategy aims
to directly address these realities. Measures such as aligning SPS rules with the EU and developing a Single Trade Window will simplify compliance and documentation, while joining up government systems promises faster, more consistent data processing. Enhancing service quality For intermediaries, the introduction of a voluntary professional standard (see https://bifa.org/news/ for further information and to respond to the government consultation (closing date 3 October 2025)) is intended to enhance service quality and build trust across the supply chain. Investments in the Customs Declaration Service and modernisation of the UK border will support smoother and more predictable movement of goods. BIFA will continue to work closely with government departments to support the development and implementation of the trade strategy, acting in the best interests of our Members. We encourage Members to take part in any projects or consultations linked to the strategy, as their expertise and practical experience are vital for shaping future solutions. Invitations to participate will be shared with Members as soon as they are received from government. If you are interested in reading the full reports quoted in this article they can be viewed at: • https://www.aston.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2024- 09/Full%20Report.pdf • https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/uk- trade-in-numbers/uk-trade-in-numbers-web-versi on#uk-trade-in-numbers-introduction • https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/trade- and-investment-core-statistics-book/trade-and-inv estment-core-statistics-book
“ Investments in the Customs Declaration Service and modern - isation of the UK border will support smoother and more predictable movement of goods
September 2025 | 15
www.bifa.org
Policy & Compliance
Reactive hazards Cargoes of concern: hidden dangers The Cargo Integrity Group has recently highlighted a number of cargoes of concern and, in particular, the hidden dangers of fi re-initiating cargoes Spill or leak risks Improper packing consequences
• Charcoal/carbon • Calcium hypochlorite • Lithium-ion batteries • Cotton and wool • Fishmeal and krill • Seed cake
• Hides and skins • Wine • Bitumen • Cocoa butter • Waste – recycled engines and engine parts • Vegetable and other oils, particularly when packed in flexitanks
• Logs and timber • Steel coils • Marble and granite
T he Cargo Integrity Group handling organisations with different roles in the supply chain and a shared dedication to improving safety, security and environmental performance. The Bureau International des Containers, the Container Owners Association, FIATA, the Global Shippers Forum, ICHCA, TT Club and the World Shipping Council are co-operating on a range of brings together international freight transport and cargo activities to further the adoption and implementation of crucial safety practices and regulations. The group has identified a number of cargoes, commonly carried in containers, that under certain conditions can cause dangerous incidents. It urges everyone handling these goods to follow all applicable regulations, the CTU Code and industry best practices. Cargoes of concern Fifteen such ‘cargoes of concern’ have been identified that are commonly transported by sea and intermodally, which have been categorised as: • Reactive hazards – cargoes that can catch fire and cause conditions. They are generally subject to Dangerous Goods regulations. • Spill or leak risks – these commodities can present a risk if not packed properly or if they are damaged. Spills or leaks from these cargoes can harm the health of people cleaning up the spill as well as the environment. • Improper packing consequences – cargoes that are poorly or incorrectly packed or secured in the container can lead to injuries to personnel or significant damage and casualties under certain
damage to nearby containers, property or other cargo. Such incidents can cause severe accidents at sea or on land, such as truck rollovers and train derailments. The list is based on data from, among other sources: the claims history of leading freight insurance provider TT Club; a report prepared by the International Cargo submitted to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) on incidents involving dangerous goods on ships or in ports; and from the Cargo Incident Notification System (CINS) which collates information provided by its members on incidents involving dangerous cargo. Hidden dangers of fi re-initiating cargoes Following the initial information identifying cargoes of concern, the Cargo Integrity Group expanded on those cargoes in the Reactive Hazards category, that can catch fire and cause significant damage and casualties under certain conditions. Circumstances created by an alignment of mistakes, Handling Co-ordination Association (ICHCA) and oversights, or failed controls can turn a minor incident into a major event. Many of the cargoes in this category already fall within the scope of dangerous goods regulations. These regulations start
from the premise that the transport of dangerous goods is prohibited – except in accordance with the details of the regulations. Such cargoes with reactive hazards include: Calcium hypochlorite, a powerful oxidiser prone to rapid decomposition. In low concentrations, the chlorine content is used as a water cleanser and disinfectant, such as household bleach and in swimming pool maintenance. Decomposition is accelerated by higher temperatures and by contamination and can result in an exothermic reaction. Charcoal: concerns include, among others, charcoal that is intended for burning on barbecues, shisha pipes, etc – sometimes having been treated with accelerants to assist ignition. There has been lengthy debate at the IMO to fashion a revised safety framework for transport by sea, which will become mandatory from January 2026. This will remove an unreliable test regime and require that charcoal is always declared as dangerous goods. Cotton and wool, fi shmeal and krill and seed cake are perhaps less in the public eye, but also prone to self-heating and fire, where integrity and care are required both to ensure compliance and maintain safety during transport. Lithium-ion battery hazards are becoming known, but many are emergent, not least as science
“ The group has identified a number of cargoes, commonly carried in containers, that under certain conditions can cause dangerous incidents
16 | September 2025
www.bifa.org
Policy & Compliance
“ The Cargo Integrity Group calls for continued and thorough research into all the hazards presented by lithium ion batteries
The CTU Code Dedicated to improving the safety, security and environmental performance throughout the containerised supply chain, a primary goal of the Cargo Integrity Group is to increase awareness and wider use of the IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice for Packing of Cargo Transport Units – the CTU Code. As part of this effort, the group has developed a ‘Quick Guide’ to the CTU Code, together with a Checklist of actions and responsibilities for the guidance of those undertaking the packing of cargoes in freight containers. These are now available in all six
advances global energy transition. Many incidents to date have involved new batteries; the hazards will only multiply with age and deteriorating condition. While this will challenge the recycling industry, the reality is that all these products, whether new, used, in use, damaged or end of life, will impact the transport and storage industries for decades to come. The Cargo Integrity Group calls for continued and thorough research into all the hazards presented by lithium ion batteries and dependent devices. Apart from fire, incidents have revealed risks from toxic gases and vapour cloud explosions that can be critical in transport and storage.
official IMO languages as well as Italian.
This article is based on the following information published by TT Club: • Cargoes of Concern – https://www.ttclub.com/news- and-resources/news/article/car go-integrity-group-highlights- cargoes-that-can-compromise -supply-chain-safety/ • Hidden dangers of fire-initiating cargoes – https://www.ttclub.com/news- and-resources/news/article/hid den-dangers-of-fire-initiating- cargoes-explained/
September 2025 | 17
www.bifa.org
BIFA Awards
Loading rolled alloy plate, destined for the manufacturers for processing Keeping aerospace aloft
Carrier ‘Z’ trailers loaded in the US, shipped via ro-ro and awaiting dispatch on the quay
retailers prefer to hold stock at distribution centres nowadays, given the complexities around Brexit, higher freight rates and the shifts in logistics that came about during COVID-19. But aerospace is likely to continue to use the just-in- time model, said APGL director Kevan Childs. APGL has plenty of experience of this method since another segment of its business is the transportation of foodstuffs which, by their very nature, cannot always be held in stock for long periods. “We move foodstuffs using ocean freight (including ambient and temperature-controlled solutions) to general warehouse sites. We do a lot of CIF business in this area,” Childs said. Looking ahead APGL wants to keep expanding its US activity, while the EU has also become a market for the company since Brexit. Julie Curran, executive assistant, said APGL has certainly diversi fi ed in recent years. “We’re small enough to change direction – and we’ve had to, to survive, especially since COVID-19. We listen to customer demands, and we read forward what we think the market will do.” APGL is con fi dent that the aerospace sector will keep growing despite the introduction of US tariffs on steel imports. According to Quincey: “The industry is recharging and looking at ways to improve fl eets. Airbus is offering cash grants and incentives to suppliers to increase output – it was behind on orders by about 150 aircraft last year because it couldn’t get parts quickly enough – and this should lead to increased volumes for us as well.”
Atlantic Paci fi c Global Logistics, winner of the 2024 BIFA Supply Chain Management Award, has found aircraft manufacturers’ need for just-in-time logistics to be a great fi t for its experience
manufacturer itself,” he said. “For example, wings are fl own from Broughton on the manufacturer’s own specialist aircraft. Our responsibility is mainly to get the metals to the factory, and we mostly do this by truck. If a shipment is going to France or the Netherlands, we will either send it shortsea or on a dedicated truck.” Any delays in despatching the cargo from the US increase the urgency of onward transport once it arrives in the UK, as deliveries are made on a just-in-time basis. Quincey explained: “We’re delivering to manufacturing plants without much storage space; they prefer items to arrive and go straight to the production line rather than taking up room – or incurring costs at the port. Just-in- time is the most cost-effective option.” Many manufacturers and
A tlantic Paci fi c Global Logistics (APGL) was approached in 2023 to move rolled alloy sheets, ingots and fuselage stringers from the US into Rotterdam for distribution around Europe and the UK on behalf of a supplier of raw form metals to major aircraft manufacturers. Since Brexit, the client was having problems with transportation between Rotterdam and the UK. Essential delivery slots were being missed, causing delays at multimillion-pound production lines. Rerouting the UK deliveries away from Rotterdam and bringing them directly from the US into the UK has reduced costs and improved the delivery success rate by 20%. APGL has won a three-year extension to the contract as a result. Andy Quincey, national logistics manager at APGL, said the metals are shipped over from the US by sea, with onward transport varying according to destination and urgency. “Generally, the last leg to the assembly plant in Toulouse is handled by the aerospace
“ Just-in-time is the most cost- effective option – Andy Quincey, APGL
Supply Chain Management Award
Descartes + BoxTop Technologies has been successfully delivering freight management software solutions to international freight forwarders and logistics providers for over 25 years. Descartes +
BoxTop Technologies puts you in control of a smarter, more efficient organisation and enables your team to free up time to focus on developing other areas of your business.
18 | September 2025
www.bifa.org
Policy & Compliance
UN adopts draft convention on Negotiable Cargo Documents
The NCD Convention is set to be adopted later this year, introducing a harmonised legal framework recognising negotiable cargo documents of title for all modes of transport
O n 14 July, the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) approved the draft Convention on Negotiable Cargo Documents (NCD), marking a signi fi cant milestone in the modernisation of international trade law. It also opened new opportunities for shippers, freight forwarders and trade fi nance institutions across both established and emerging trade corridors. The convention is expected to be adopted by the UN General Assembly later this year. Longstanding legal gap The NCD Convention introduces a harmonised, opt-in legal framework recognising negotiable cargo documents of title – in both paper and electronic form – for all modes of transport. This helps
address a longstanding legal gap in multimodal transport and paves the way for enhanced legal certainty, particularly in support of trade digitalisation. The convention incorporates provisions based on the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR), granting electronic negotiable documents the same legal validity as their paper counterparts. At the same time, the text preserves existing liability regimes and the responsibilities of carriers under current conventions. It focuses solely on the negotiability and legal recognition of documents of title, allowing commercial parties to opt in as needed.
The convention reinforces the role of freight forwarders and logistics service providers as contractual carriers issuing multimodal transport documents. It also enhances legal clarity across jurisdictions, enabling more reliable issuance and transfer of negotiable documents essential for trade finance, particularly for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. An explanatory video has been published by the United Nations and is accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=x-xXcWxW1w8 BIFA would like to thank CLECAT for permission to reproduce this article from its Newsletter.
“ The convention is expected to be adopted by the UN General Assembly later this year
www.bifa.org
September 2025 | 19
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker