TRANSPORTING MOTORCYCLES ACROSS THE UK/EU BORDER



June 7th, 2022.



The National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) has advised of a twist in the issue of customs formalities when transporting motorcycles across the EU/UK border in vans or on trailers.


The Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations (FEMA), the Federation of International Vehicules Anciens (FIVA) and the National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) received updated advice from the UK Government during a meeting held between the NMC and the UK Government’s Cabinet Office borders group.

This meeting was held as a result of the letter that the three riders’ organisations received from the European Commission, suggesting that there should be no onerous customs formalities for moving bikes in vans or on trailers. The UK Government used the letter to reopen talks on the issue with France and has undertaken further checks with various customs authorities on their understanding of the issue considering the European Commission’s letter.

Apparently, there is an issue with what customs authorities regard as ‘means of transport’ under various international treaties and regulations. It has now emerged that customs may take the view that a road registered motorcycle stops being a means of transport for the purposes of crossing a border when it is being carried by another vehicle, temporarily becoming ‘goods in transit’. This appears to be what has happened in France, where customs have in some cases insisted that motorcycles (and cars) in vans, lorries or on trailers are accompanied by an ATA Carnet.

Talks continue to take between UK, EU and French officials aimed at seeking a final resolution to the issue and riders’ groups are maintaining close contact with both the UK and EU authorities.

However, until a final resolution is reached, FEMA, FIVA and NMC are now advising that riders check carefully with customs authorities about individual border requirements when transporting motorcycles to and from the UK and EU in a van or on a trailer. There seems to be varying ways the rules are applied between EU countries. Further updates will be issued as soon as possible.


More information can be found at www.uknmc.org
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