Explain some transportation issues if you have business in Northern Ireland

Why is product transportation an issue?

Some people can't understand why this will be a problem, because Northern Ireland belongs to the UK. What is the problem? I transport the products in the same countries. But it is indeed a problem.

It occurred in 2020 when the UK was not a part of the EU; people called it Brexit. But Northern Ireland people don't want to leave the EU; they want to stay. But in the EU, products circulate freely, and after Brexit, it is no way. I didn't want to discuss the policy, but according to the Northern Ireland Protocol, the solution now is that Northern Ireland still belongs to the UK; products in Northern Ireland circulate freely to the EU but products in the UK don't. Same as products in the EU.

So there is another border between Northern Ireland and the UK to inspect the destination of the products. If it is to the EU, it needs to pay an extra tariff. The same if goods are from the EU to the UK through Northern Ireland.

What about the products to Northern Ireland?

The good news is the brand owner doesn't have to pay an extra tariff, but there are conditions.
⦁ You need to register to import products.
⦁ You need to have have EORI, Economic Operators Registration and Identification, number
⦁ Better register TSS, Trader Support Service. 

What are EORI and TSS?

I have several customers in Northern Ireland but when I asked them about the EORI and TSS, most of them were confused. EORI is a company registration number in the EU and UK that allows it to be identified by the administration. EORI numbers in Northern Ireland start from XI.

TSS is an online trade service that allows business owners to declare their product advance to have a quick pass at the border between Northern Ireland and the UK.

If we don't have EORI and TSS, can I import products to Northern Ireland?
Theoretically, you can't. Business owners better register for the EORI and TSS to make sure the product passes through the border smoothly and avoid any extra cost. But as experts in the cosmetic field for many years, we can help you even if you don't.

Conclusion

The product transportation seems a bit complicated between Northern Ireland and the UK, but with our help, it will be much easier. We are able to offer a series of options to meet your needs.

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between VAT and EORI?
A: VAT is for tax-paying. EORI is for customs clearance. 

Q: Do you need a customs declaration?
A: Usually, yes.

Q: How long does it take to import products from China to Northern Ireland?
A: Usually 9 to 12 days to the UK. Because there is another border in Northern Ireland, you usually need an extra 2 to 3 days to get to Northern Ireland.

Q: Do you need to pay customs duty from the UK to Northern Ireland?
A: As mentioned above, if it's to Northern Ireland, you don't need to pay. If the EU countries pass through Northern Ireland, this is a tariff.