Ferry firm P&O is rolling out a new customs clearance service to help firms navigate the new rules for import and exports.

It is designed to provide "seamless communications between customers, booking offices and customs clearance departments".

And it comes ahead of the introduction of a host of new post-Brexit import regulations, which come into force from January - an issue likely to be faced by many transporting goods through the Port of Dover.

The service - created in response to rapidly rising market demand - will be able to provide import and export clearance coverage to any company, on any shipping route, seven days a week.

Payment of duties and completion of transit forms will also be available.

Thorsten Runge, managing director of P&O Ferries Freight Services, said: “Customers already face an array of complex, time-critical challenges. As they prepare for forthcoming regulatory changes, our customs clearance service will enable the continued smooth sailing of goods and people across borders, providing fast, reliable and flexible links to international supply chains and markets.

“The investments we are making in new equipment, new sites and new capabilities, all have one purpose – to solve supply chain challenges. As those challenges become ever more complex, we are using deep sector knowledge to help customers drive efficiency. With the support of our parent company, DP World, we are committed to improving and expanding the nation’s trading infrastructure.”

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