Established in 1976 by 10 logistics and transportation owner-operators in Skuldelev, Denmark, De Sammensluttede Vognmænd (The Consolidated Haulers, or DSV) has since grown to become a global supply chain consultancy with 47,000 employees in more than 75 countries.
“From the beginning, the story of DSV has been a story of entrepreneurs with great business acumen and the courage to embark on a journey of continued growth,” notes CEO Jens Bjørn Andersen.
The firm’s 1,000-plus offices, terminals and warehouses across the world are in located in close proximity to the numerous business segments that they serve, including international automotive operations.
“Backed by more than 20 years of experience with the global automotive industry, we share our expertise with you and support your efforts to continuously streamline your supply chain,” Andersen reports. “Our dedicated automotive sites form the ideal basis for your unique supply chain and distribution channels.”
Pointing out that this field “is one of the most complex sectors of all due to the ever-increasing flow of materials between continents and the diverse range of supply chain strategies employed,” Andersen explains that “our dedicated automotive services allow you to focus on the opportunities as well as the challenges.”
Beginning his career in 1988 as a trainee at the Samson Transport Co., he quickly advanced into positions of increasing responsibility, assuming DSV’s chief executive spot in 2008.
Andersen additionally holds several other business leadership posts across several nations, where interest in the intricacies of Brexit remains a high priority. The questions and answers presented here have been lightly edited for context and clarity:
Is it a certainty that my company be affected by Brexit?
If your company is involved with the trading or movement of goods between the UK and EU countries or vice versa, your company will be affected by Brexit.
Business transactions between the UK and EU countries are currently seen as intra-community traffic and are not therefore subject to customs import processes and duty payments. Brexit will change this, meaning products have to be included in customs declarations, posing a potential liability to pay duty.
Companies outside the EU doing business with UK companies might be affected as existing trade agreements will cease if/when the UK leaves the EU Customs Union. Trade after that will be subject to any new trade agreements the UK negotiates.
What do we need to do to prepare for Brexit?
It is best to contact your normal DSV point of contact as they have a shortlist of requirements they can provide you with.
But for imports from and exports to the UK and their related customs processes, you will have to register with customs authorities and obtain an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number.
As your products will be subject to customs regulations, DSV will need you to provide us a list of legally required information; your DSV contact can tell you what this information is in your case.
If you are affected you will need to ensure that you are up to date with the latest status and understand exactly what steps need to be taken or changed in your current operation & supply chain and what this means for risk and cost.
Will Brexit increase the cost of our supply chain?
Almost certainly, as a “hard Brexit” (with less favorable negotiated transaction terms) will mean duty is payable on most products moving between the EU & the UK. All shipments will also require customs documentation on departure and arrival, for which you may require a customs broker.
Will Brexit result in delays to our supply chain?
Unfortunately, that is the general expectation. Apart from the potential for port congestion, the logistics are changing from an operation which is similar to domestic trucking to one where a hard customs border may exist between the EU & the UK, requiring cargo to be customs cleared before removal from the departure and arrival ports. This will almost certainly impact overall supply chain speed and reliability.
How does DSV view a No Deal/Deal Brexit scenario?
At DSV, we are constantly following the political developments in the UK. Although a certain level of uncertainty still exists, DSV is taking all preparatory actions to mitigate as much as possible for the risks and challenges that Brexit brings all of us.
How can you help us prepare for Brexit?
We might already have some information from you for pure logistics activities, but the customs implications require additional information. We have the knowledge and capability to offer you support and guidance via our team of regional and country Brexit leaders.
Who do we contact about Brexit at DSV?
You should first contact your normal point of contact in DSV. They have direct access to relevant Brexit information and can reach out to the local DSV Brexit leaders or customs experts.
If you do not know who your normal contact is please fill in the contact form on our website and we will forward your message to the leader for your country.
How can I stay updated?
The UK Government, the EU Commission and many other EU Governments have official sites with the latest updates on negotiations, documents, etc. See our list of useful links on our website for more information.
