Maersk Line has issued a plea for its customers to remain calm ahead of Brexit — but also advised them to stay informed.
With the UK potentially leaving the European Union on 29 March, it said clients could be affected by two scenarios.
The first is that trade between the UK and the EU will no longer be treated as taking place within the same economic or customs area.
Customs clearance
"Effectively, this will imply customs clearance and related documentation, application of duties and tariffs or more complex formalities compared to the trade between the countries within the EU," it added.
The second possibility is that trade between the UK and third countries with which the EU has special trade agreements will no longer be subject to those deals.
"This will mean less favourable terms for trading with these countries: higher duties, different or more complex procedures etc," Maersk said.
The container line highlighted one particularly important issue in terms of shipping dates.
Post-Brexit regime
If cargoes have been shipped before Brexit day, but are scheduled to arrive at their destination after the country has left the bloc, they will be subject to the new post-Brexit regime.
Maersk said: "Prepare your business for the UK leaving the EU — follow the information published regularly by the UK government on their dedicated page and stay informed on all the changes and additional requirements resulting from Brexit."
