Import-Export to France

Jeavons Eurotir’s European road freight team is experienced in import and export to France and are ready and awaiting your call. Our team are well connected and knowledgeable about the various intricacies for export to France and the UK, and as customs and duties change with Brexit, we are at the forefront of exploring these new policies and procedures. 

Whether you want to import or export to France, transport a full load or a few pallets, our team can do it on time and at a competitive price. We also offer an ADR Transport service, so we are more than capable of transporting hazardous materials across national borders with import and export to France, and understand the safety risks and care required for this type of transport.

Our team is also multilingual, which is a valuable asset for discussing with local drivers and discussing import and export to France.

The Do’s & Don’ts of exporting to France

With a GDP of $2549 billion, France is the sixth-largest economy in the world and the fourth largest export market for the UK. For the 64.7 million people of France, the UK has many opportunities for export with its innovative, highly quality products. Sectors such as banking, transportation, aerospace industry, food, agriculture, and the nuclear and chemical industries offer great potential for export. France’s main imports currently include; electronics, fuel, chemicals, machinery and metal products. There are specific considerations to make when exporting to France:

• It is advisable to work with a professional translator to ensure successful transactions, as communication in French language is very highly valued.
• Good accessibility to France will make it easier to sell products and services.
• The French prefer to purchase goods and services from their own country, so if you are considering exporting you should make reassurances regarding price, quality and the reliability of your products.
• Carefully packaged, affordable, quality products are seen as very desirable in France, due to the high spending power of French consumers.
• Whilst conducting business keep it strictly business-like as the French typically prefer to keep personal and professional life separate. Professional conduct, trust and respect are greatly valued, and will help you to become established.
• Adhering to deadlines is a must.
• All documentation relating to business, (and even on your website) must be translated to French if your product is to be sold in France.

Steps to consider when exporting to France

From January 2021 the new Brexit rules apply when exporting or importing goods to EU countries. Here are a few points to consider when you export to France :

• To export to France you need to have a UK EORI number (this starts with a GB or XI) and you also need to know the EU EORI number of the company in France that you are exporting goods to.
• As per new Brexit rules, the company or individual you are exporting your goods to needs to pay tax and duties on all the goods they receive. Therefore you must ensure that you have the correct commodity code for them to pay this tax.
• If you are making customs declaration yourself you need to register yourself on the National Export System (NES) and make declarations electronically via web, email or Community System Provider (CSP) software. You’ll also need a CHIEF badge role for this. To make it easier for you it is advisable to seek the help of a freight forwarder who can help you with all customs declarations.
• Certain goods such as alcohol and tobacco need special export licences, or certificates. You need to have such licences if you are to export them.
• Commercial contractual terms of trade should be reviewed before exporting goods, so that it’s clear who is responsible for customs duties, import VAT and other costs. Incoterms determine when risk is transferred from seller to buyer.
• You can either opt to use the services of a freight forwarder uk to transport your goods to France, or you can transport them yourself. If you are using your own transport you’ll need operator licences and permits for your vehicle. Your driver needs to have a permit to drive abroad, and carry all necessary documentation. When exporting a full-load you may wish to apply for an authorised consignee, or consignor status.
• Post-Brexit, your customers may have to pay tariffs for the goods they buy from you. You may want to discuss this with them beforehand and avoid any unwelcome surprises.

Jeavons Eurotir consists of a highly experienced team who have extensive knowledge with regards to importing and exporting. Contact us today for a successful, professional export service to France.