Shipping parcels to Europe has never been simple for UK companies, and since Brexit, the challenges have multiplied. Delays, unexpected fees, and confusing paperwork are now part of the reality for anyone sending goods across the Channel. Yet, most businesses are still unaware of the small but crucial details that could save them time and money. Today, we reveal the customs secrets EU carriers do not want you to know, and how SMA helps businesses overcome them.

Why UK Companies Struggle Post Brexit

Many businesses assume that sending a parcel to France, Germany, or Spain works the same way it did before 2021. That assumption can be costly. Parcels can sit for days at customs, additional charges may appear without warning, and small mistakes on paperwork can hold up shipments for weeks.

SMA works closely with UK companies to identify these hidden risks. By understanding your shipping patterns and common pain points, SMA can advise on the most efficient processes and ensure parcels move quickly across borders.

Hidden Costs That Can Surprise You

Extra charges are one of the first things UK companies notice after Brexit. Some carriers include handling fees in the small print, while others apply customs clearance fees without clearly notifying you. Even when shipping costs seem reasonable, these hidden charges can add up quickly.

SMA helps companies anticipate these costs. By providing detailed cost breakdowns, advising on the most cost-effective services, and offering guidance on handling fees and surcharges, SMA ensures you are not caught off guard.

Timing Is Everything

EU shipping is not just about paperwork. Timing plays a big role in whether your parcel arrives on schedule. Many companies do not realise that the day and time they send parcels can affect customs processing.

SMA uses insights from years of experience to recommend optimal shipping schedules. From peak seasons to daily timing, SMA helps you plan shipments so they clear customs quickly and reach clients on time.

 

 

Documentation Tricks Carriers Do Not Share

Correct paperwork is critical. The customs declaration, invoices, and product classification all need to be accurate. Many parcels get held simply because an HS code is incorrect or the value of the shipment is misrepresented.

SMA supports businesses with accurate documentation. Whether it is pre-filling forms, verifying product classifications, or reviewing invoices, SMA ensures your paperwork meets EU requirements and reduces the risk of delays.

Preferred Routes and Carriers

Not all routes are created equal. Some ports are faster than others, and certain carriers have more experience handling UK parcels post Brexit. While this information is rarely advertised, it can make a significant difference.

SMA advises on the best routes and trusted carriers for your shipments. By leveraging relationships and insider knowledge, SMA ensures your parcels take the fastest, most reliable path to their destination.

Emergency Shipments

Sometimes, parcels need to get through quickly. Emergency shipments require careful planning and the right approach. Carriers have express services that can bypass some delays, but these are often more expensive.

SMA helps businesses navigate emergency shipments efficiently. From selecting express services to ensuring paperwork is correct, SMA guides companies in sending urgent parcels without unnecessary costs or delays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many businesses continue to make the same mistakes. Incorrect product descriptions, missing paperwork, or misunderstanding VAT and duties are common culprits. Some companies also underestimate how much information customs requires, assuming that standard shipping labels are enough.

SMA educates businesses on these common mistakes. By highlighting pitfalls, providing checklists, and offering ongoing support, SMA helps UK companies stay compliant and avoid unnecessary delays or fines.

Tools and Resources

While carriers may keep certain tips to themselves, there are tools that every UK business should use. Official EU customs guidance is essential reading, and tracking tools offered by carriers can help you identify where a parcel is being held.

SMA provides access to these tools and more. From tracking dashboards to expert advice, SMA equips businesses with the resources they need to manage EU shipments confidently.

Conclusion

Shipping to Europe post Brexit is no longer straightforward. Hidden fees, customs delays, and complicated paperwork are part of the reality for UK businesses. Yet, the companies that understand the rules, plan carefully, and use insider knowledge are the ones who succeed.

SMA helps companies stay ahead. By anticipating hidden costs, timing shipments correctly, preparing accurate documentation, choosing the right routes and carriers, and managing emergency shipments, SMA ensures your business keeps moving. With the right support, UK companies can avoid common mistakes, save time, reduce costs, and maintain satisfied clients across Europe.