Alinea Customs Briefing
From 31 March 2025, businesses trading goods between Great Britain (GB) and Northern Ireland (NI) will experience a major shift toward efficiency and simplicity with the full implementation of the ‘Green Lane’ under the UK Internal Market Scheme.
This milestone is further complemented by new arrangements for parcels through the UK Carrier Scheme, marking a significant step forward in easing post-Brexit UK customs complexities.
These arrangements were due to be implemented from 1 October 2024 but were deferred to allow more preparation time.
What is the Green Lane?
The Green Lane is a streamlined customs process that facilitates the frictionless movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, focusing on goods that are intended solely for Northern Ireland. This mechanism minimises checks and paperwork, providing a faster and simpler solution for businesses operating across the Irish Sea.
To access the Green Lane, businesses must register with the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS). The scheme ensures that goods moving via the Green Lane are not at risk of entering the EU single market, addressing concerns about regulatory compliance while maintaining the integrity of trade.
New Parcel Arrangements: The UK Carrier Scheme
The full rollout of the UK Carrier Scheme on the same date will also revolutionise the way parcels are sent between GB and NI. Under this new framework businesses and carriers will be able to send parcels with reduced customs formalities and a focus on ensuring a smooth and efficient process while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements. The new arrangement will also apply for individuals sending personal goods.
Holly Piggott, Alinea Customs Director stated, “The dual approach of the Green Lane and UK Carrier Scheme reflects a commitment to simplifying the complexities of trade, particularly for SMEs and individuals who rely on cross-border movement. The benefits are significant, reducing extensive customs declaration and checks; delivering faster transit times and more cost effective solutions. Our team at Alinea Customs are ready to assist and bring businesses up to speed to benefit from this new system.”
The key benefits of the new system include:
- Reduced Administrative Burden: The Green Lane minimises the need for extensive customs declarations and checks.
- Faster Transit Times: Goods and parcels will move more swiftly, reducing delays that previously hindered trade.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: Simplified processes that help reduce the costs associated with compliance.
- Clarity and Consistency: A single, well-defined system that enhances predictability for businesses.
How should businesses prepare for this change?
Businesses wishing to utilise the Green Lane should register with the UK Internal Market Scheme within the next two months. Similarly, parcel carriers should align with the requirements of the UK Carrier Scheme by March 31st, 2025 to take full advantage of the updated parcel arrangements.
The full implementation of these measures reflects a significant step toward balancing regulatory compliance with the practicalities of trade, fostering better economic integration within the United Kingdom while maintaining obligations under the Northern Ireland Protocol.
Alinea Customs has focussed on assisting businesses that require tailored expert solutions and can provide timely assistance to prepare for this change. The team offers professional customs clearance and consultancy services, legal advisory on supply chain agreements, and customs training to support businesses in navigating international trade, customs and regulations.
