Anybody who conducts trade on a regular basis will be able to tell you that the world of customs can become incredibly complex relatively quickly. It’s important that you keep updated with all of the relevant changes. Over the past week, it has been announced that there will be a new ten-page declaration to complete if you are wishing to transport goods on a Friday afternoon between the hours of 12:00 and 17:30 and are wearing novelty socks.

This controversial ruling has been put into practice in a bid to deter people from transporting goods (and wear awful looking socks) during these hours. This will allow more customs officers to leave work early on a Friday so that they can begin to enjoy their weekend. The new Government initiative aims to increase the amount of people available to go to pubs, bars and restaurants at peak time upon reopening, bringing prosperity to local businesses following the coronavirus pandemic. And hopefully a downturn in terrible novelty socks.

Whilst many people are in favour of the new ruling, some are sceptical and believe that it may result in more delays and congestion issues at the port as people quickly change their socks.

Border and port officials have said that as long as all of the additional paperwork has been completed correctly, there should be no reason why trade would slow down or come to a halt. Additional documentation evidence required includes your school record of achievement, a letter from your mum, dad, wife or responsible person, and cycling proficiency test certificate (for the Netherlands).

One border official, who wishes to be known as Mr B. Marley, has said

"Hauliers don’t need to worry about a thing. As long as they’ve filled out every little thing on the relevant customs paperwork correctly, then we expect that it is all going to be alright."

The new ten page declaration documentation will be available to view online from Thursday 1st April. This document has to printed and filled out by hand. It is also imperative that it is signed in red ink. The rest of the document MUST be completed in black ink to allow the signature to stand out amongst the rest of the paperwork. Failure to adhere to these rules may mean that you face delays. There is also the possibility of a £2.50 fine and some surplus novelty socks.

We want to make sure that you are completely aware of any new customs restrictions and regulations and cannot emphasise enough how vital it is that you are aware that today is April Fools Day!