Impact of industrial action on goods movements on 28 April 2023

25 Apr 2023

Impact of industrial action on goods movements on 28 April 2023

You may have seen reports that civil service members of the PCS will be going on strike on Friday 28 April 2023. Following a nationwide ballot in February, HMRC members of PCS agreed to industrial action and therefore some HMRC staff will be taking part. The action will also include UK-based Home Office members, including Border Force staff.

The industrial action may impact the movement of goods through UK ports, airports and Inland Border Facilities on 28 April, as well as those travelling to the UK from UK Border controls in Calais, Dunkirk and Coquelles in Northern France.

Customers could experience delays when contacting the National Clearance Hub (NCH) and Customs & International Trade (CIT) Helpline. There may also be some disruption on the morning of 29 April as business returns to normal.

What you can do

If you are able to move goods outside of this period, then we would advise that they do so.

If you cannot delay their movements then please be aware that the industrial action could lead to disruption and delays at ports and Inland Border Facilities (IBFs). You should be prepared for these delays and check with their operator before starting their movement.

Businesses can also check IBF site availability online.