Businesses throughout Yorkshire are set to benefit from a Government decision to make iPort Rail in Doncaster a new inland customs facility. It is the first Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SFRI) in the UK to achieve this designation.
As a result, iPort Rail can now support goods moving in both directions through the Channel Tunnel, which means that businesses using its service can clear customs in South Yorkshire before delivering to UK customers or travelling to international markets.
To support the service, iPort Rail has also secured HMRC’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status which demonstrates its adherence to high standards when it comes to freight movements.
The new customs capability includes a temporary storage facility creating an approved area where inventory-linked goods under customs control can be held until they are released to free circulation, with duties charged on release. It also has an area for UK Border Force authorities to examine and take account of goods.
iPort Rail is part of the 800-acre iPort logistics hub being developed by Verdion, one of the UK’s fastest growing rail freight terminals since opening nearly three years ago. It already runs eight daily services to and from UK seaports, moving around 500 containers per day, connecting global businesses with national and regional UK markets and helping companies in the UK export to the rest of the world.
Paul Bathgate, Business Solutions Director, iPort Rail, said: “We’ve seen in the past 18 months how important it is to have reliable, efficient supply chains for import and export. Rail freight to/from Doncaster is one way to help minimise disruption and cut carbon emissions at the same time.
“Sea ports are already under pressure, roads are congested and with more Brexit changes ahead businesses need a wider range of options to keep their supply chains moving from port to door.
“Now goods going to or coming from Yorkshire, the North of England and the Midlands can bypass South Coast ports more easily with Channel Tunnel services able to clear customs in South Yorkshire. We can also support businesses on the paperwork and practicalities too.
“Ultimately, this is another way for businesses to fulfil supply chain needs more sustainably and efficiently.”