BIFA adds further Customs Modules to E-learning Library

by | Apr 17, 2025 | Freight Industry News

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has added new modules to the Bitesize eLearning programme that it launched earlier this year as part of the corporate membership fee.

The new modules supplement the existing CDS Compliance course and encompass a variety of Customs regimes including Returns Goods Relief, Temporary Admission, and Inward Processing for imports; as well as Outward Processing, Export from a Customs Warehouse and Standard Export.

Whilst the initial CDS Compliance is a mandatory module, centred around an import home-use declaration, and outlining potential consequences of compliance errors, the new modules can each be undertaken separately.

BIFA Bitesize is a suite of eLearning that has been developed as part of BIFA’s ongoing commitment to provide a variety of training options, aimed at enhancing knowledge in areas critical to freight forwarding, customs compliance, and international trade.

In addition to CDS Compliance, the first rendition of BIFA Bitesize content featured extracts from the existing BIFA Freight Forwarding and Customs Essentials courses.

Some of the key topics include: Preparing to Trade; Incoterms 2020; Inward and Outward Processing; Customs Warehousing; Classification; Returned Goods Relief; Paying HMRC, and Procedure Codes. Read more from BIFA >

 

Need a quotation or ready to book a job?

Simply add your insurance requirements in our online quote, or call us to discuss further:

+44 (0) 1709 610 000

Quote me
Ready to order now

Protecting Precious Memories: 100-year-old Dining Table delivered to Australia

A cherished 100-year-old oak dining table belonging to a Sheffield family has been successfully delivered to its new home in Australia…

Read More

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) by International Freight Solutions

Learn more about a Freight Forwarder by International Freight Solutions. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for…

Read More

2026 is the 10th Anniversary of International Freight Solutions

IFS has grown from a small dedicated freight forwarding business into a trusted logistics partner, providing Air Freight, Road Freight and…

Read More

An introduction to International Freight Solutions (IFS)

International Freight Solutions (IFS) can arrange Express or Economy services for your Documents, Parcels, Pallets, Part or Full Trailer/Container Loads, either by Road, Ocean, Air or Rail…

Read More

Team IFS Sheffield take some well-earned time out in Finland

At IFS, the team of staff spend every day helping customers move goods across the world, but recently two members of the Sheffield team had the chance to experience international…

Read More

Staff Profiles – Introducing… Neil Braddish

Joining the IFS team has enabled Neil to bring together his passion for travel with his commitment to delivering outstanding sales and…

Read More

Tracking Fuel Prices in UK as conflict in Middle East remains volatile

The RAC is tracking how pump prices in the UK are being affected by the conflict in the Middle East…

Read More

International Freight Solutions Ltd is a member of BIFA

The leading body representing the UK International Freight Services industry – The British International Freight Association (BIFA) is the prime trade association for UK registered companies…

Read More

UK Logistics Week 2026: Collaboration brings the entire logistics supply chain together

In a landmark strategic move set to fundamentally reshape the UK logistics exhibition landscape, between 30 June to 2 July 2026…

Read More

Valued Google Customer Reviews for International Freight Solutions Ltd

A Freight Forwarder who regularly go the extra mile when it comes to customer service. We believe in carving out long term business relationships…

Read More

UK transport demand increases 30% due to the Easter holiday

Transport demand increased by 30.27% in the week commencing 30th March, as the industry sought to outpace the traditional Easter rush…

Read More

Member of FIATA, the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations

FIATA’s membership is composed of 114 Association Members, overall representing an industry of 40,000 freight forwarding and logistics firms worldwide..

Read More

IFS is a member of World Top Cargo Alliance of Freight Forwarders

International Freight Solutions are proud to be part of World Top Cargo Alliance and look forward to many years of fruitful partnership…

Read More

New ‘Torus Defence Supply Chain’ announced to support the UK Defence sector

Amentum, GXO Logistics, Accenture and A.P.Moller – Maersk, have announced a new alliance, Torus Defence Supply Chain, to help strengthen the future of the UK defence sector.

Read More

Trump’s tariffs may be reduced but their impact will be felt in the UK and beyond

by | Apr 14, 2025 | Global News

The Guardian examines potential consequences of US president’s market chaos, which could reach every corner of global finance and economy.

Donald Trump may have stepped back from his huge tariff rises on every country, except China, which now faces at least 145%, but the impact of the market chaos is likely to continue in the UK and beyond. The rest of the world still faces a blanket 10% tariff on all US exports.

While much of the focus has been the direct impact of the tariffs on physical goods, Trump’s actions threaten to reach every corner of global finance and the economy.

The potential consequences of the tariffs and the fallout are examined, from derailing deals and further undermining London’s stock exchange, to risking a rise in corruption and pushing up prices for consumers.

The leading economic forecasters have yet to give their verdict, but the International Monetary Fund has already said the trade war will damage trade and business investment in most countries.

China could fail to meet its 5% growth target for 2025, while Germany could be pushed into recession. The UK is likely to escape relatively unscathed in terms of trade. UK goods exports to the US are significant, but businesses are expected to minimise the impact of tariffs, leading to a modest 0.1 percentage point reduction in UK GDP this year. However, with borrowing costs still high and consumer confidence at risk, the tariffs present a significant headache for Keir Starmer.

Read more from the Guardian >

 

For a freight delivery quotation or to book in your consignment, please click below…

Quote me
Ready to order now?
Excellent
International Freight Solutions Ltd5.0
See all reviews
review us on
Emma T.
3 days ago
First time using IFS and they made shipping my books to America really simple and stress free at a competitive rate. Thanks Paul & Jamie for keeping me updated throughout the process, will be using your services again soon.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for your great review Emma - it means a lot to us! We look forward to assiting you again soon.
The Rocking Horse S.
2 weeks ago
we have used IFS on a number of occasions. fantastic communication & service, would highly recommend and will be using again!
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review, James, it really is appreciated! Here is the URL for your case study - https://intfreight.co.uk/2022/10/export-from-the-rocking-horse-shop-in-york-to-new-zealand/
Tim D.
1 month ago
We use International Freight Solutions regularly. The service is always very good and they are always able to have a solution to fit our needs. Their pricing is good and they are very easy to work with and their communication is excellent.
Response from the owner:Really appreciate your kind words Tim and it is good to know you are pleased with the services we provide. We look forward to helping you again next time!
Josh B.
1 month ago
We have used Paul and his team multiple times over the past couple of years and have never had a problem. They always work hard to find the best solution, and they deliver every time. We had a major client putting a lot of pressure on us due to manufacturing delays. Paul sorted the transport quickly and kept adapting the arrangements whenever delays changed, which made things much easier for us. He managed to get our shipment from Spain to England within two days. The pricing is very reasonable and completely justified for the level of service provided. Communication is always clear throughout the entire transport process, and they consistently deliver quickly and reliably. I would highly recommend Paul and his team. We never have to worry when we contact him, and he is the only freight forwarder we trust because of the consistently excellent service.
Response from the owner:What a great review review Josh - it means a lot to us, thanks so much! We look forward to being of service to you again.
bredent U.
3 months ago
Had the best service provided by Jamie, excellent communication, went above & beyond thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the the time to leave a great review. Jamie will be delighted he got a mention!
Clare O.
4 months ago
As always IFS have provided an excellent service with plenty of support. Jamie couldn't have been more helpful and his communication is always timely and spot on. Can't recommend them highly enough.
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the glowing review Clare, it really is appreciated. Jamie will be especially pleased seeing as you have given him a mention! We look forward to assisting you again
Barry S.
4 months ago
Adam handled everything we needed for a quick delivery to Australia, the box was with us in less than a week, highly recommended.
Response from the owner:Many thanks Barry for taking the time to leave a great review for us - it is appreciated. Hope we can assist you again in the future
Jeff B.
5 months ago
Working with Catherine and IFS has been a breath of fresh air. Communication has been excellent, she keeps you informed throughout the entire process and makes something that others could easily make difficult feel… well, easy. If you want someone who treats your shipment like it actually matters (because it does), Catherine is the one. Highly recommend, my stress level definitely approves 😄.
Response from the owner:Glad you are happy with our service Jeff. Cath's communication is great - she does like to talk!😆We appreciate your business and look forward to assisting you again.
Rachel J.
7 months ago
Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.

Search Blog by Categories

Sign Up for IFS News Updates

US Tariff impact on UK revealed by British Chambers of Commerce

by | Apr 8, 2025 | Exports, Global News

A snap poll, by the British Chambers of Commerce award-winning Insights Unit, of more than 600 business has revealed the extent to which UK firms expect to be hit by US tariffs.

  • 62% of UK firms with trade exposure to the USA say they will be negatively impacted by US tariffs, compared to 41% with no exposure
  • 32% of firms with trade exposure to the USA say they will increase prices in response to the tariff
  • 44% of firms with exposure to the USA say the UK should seek to negotiate a closer trade relationship with the USA, and 43% want closer trade with other markets

US-UK TRADE AND INVESTMENT WORKING GROUP FlagsJust under a quarter (21%) think the UK should impose retaliatory tariffs

Using its unique access to companies in the Chamber Network, the research was rapidly carried out between 10am on Friday and 4pm on Saturday as news emerged of retaliatory action by China.

It showed that 62% of UK firms with trade exposure to the USA are taking a hit from the tariffs. Looking at the breakdown, 20% report a significant negative impact, 42% report some negative impact, 16% report no impact, 5% report some positive impact, and 2% significant positive impact.

The survey also showed that 40% of firms considered the 10% tariff to be better than they had been expecting.

Alongside increasing prices, 15% said they would seek alternative suppliers, while 13% said they expected to absorb the costs. Around a third (36%) said they would take no action at this time. This is in contrast to firms without exposure to the USA, 72% of whom said they would not take action. Find out more from British Chamber of Commerce article >

 

For a freight delivery quotation or to book in your consignment, please click below…

Quote me
Ready to order now?
Excellent
International Freight Solutions Ltd5.0
See all reviews
review us on
Emma T.
3 days ago
First time using IFS and they made shipping my books to America really simple and stress free at a competitive rate. Thanks Paul & Jamie for keeping me updated throughout the process, will be using your services again soon.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for your great review Emma - it means a lot to us! We look forward to assiting you again soon.
The Rocking Horse S.
2 weeks ago
we have used IFS on a number of occasions. fantastic communication & service, would highly recommend and will be using again!
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review, James, it really is appreciated! Here is the URL for your case study - https://intfreight.co.uk/2022/10/export-from-the-rocking-horse-shop-in-york-to-new-zealand/
Tim D.
1 month ago
We use International Freight Solutions regularly. The service is always very good and they are always able to have a solution to fit our needs. Their pricing is good and they are very easy to work with and their communication is excellent.
Response from the owner:Really appreciate your kind words Tim and it is good to know you are pleased with the services we provide. We look forward to helping you again next time!
Josh B.
1 month ago
We have used Paul and his team multiple times over the past couple of years and have never had a problem. They always work hard to find the best solution, and they deliver every time. We had a major client putting a lot of pressure on us due to manufacturing delays. Paul sorted the transport quickly and kept adapting the arrangements whenever delays changed, which made things much easier for us. He managed to get our shipment from Spain to England within two days. The pricing is very reasonable and completely justified for the level of service provided. Communication is always clear throughout the entire transport process, and they consistently deliver quickly and reliably. I would highly recommend Paul and his team. We never have to worry when we contact him, and he is the only freight forwarder we trust because of the consistently excellent service.
Response from the owner:What a great review review Josh - it means a lot to us, thanks so much! We look forward to being of service to you again.
bredent U.
3 months ago
Had the best service provided by Jamie, excellent communication, went above & beyond thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the the time to leave a great review. Jamie will be delighted he got a mention!
Clare O.
4 months ago
As always IFS have provided an excellent service with plenty of support. Jamie couldn't have been more helpful and his communication is always timely and spot on. Can't recommend them highly enough.
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the glowing review Clare, it really is appreciated. Jamie will be especially pleased seeing as you have given him a mention! We look forward to assisting you again
Barry S.
4 months ago
Adam handled everything we needed for a quick delivery to Australia, the box was with us in less than a week, highly recommended.
Response from the owner:Many thanks Barry for taking the time to leave a great review for us - it is appreciated. Hope we can assist you again in the future
Jeff B.
5 months ago
Working with Catherine and IFS has been a breath of fresh air. Communication has been excellent, she keeps you informed throughout the entire process and makes something that others could easily make difficult feel… well, easy. If you want someone who treats your shipment like it actually matters (because it does), Catherine is the one. Highly recommend, my stress level definitely approves 😄.
Response from the owner:Glad you are happy with our service Jeff. Cath's communication is great - she does like to talk!😆We appreciate your business and look forward to assisting you again.
Rachel J.
7 months ago
Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.

Search Blog by Categories

Sign Up for IFS News Updates

Logistics UK: Lower Thames Crossing approval is a momentous decision

by | Mar 31, 2025 | Freight Industry News, National news

Following the announcement by Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander, to approve the Development Consent Order (DCO) for the Lower Thames Crossing, Logistics UK Chief Executive David Wells OBE says it will drive growth across the whole economy:

“Businesses up and down the country are currently hamstrung by delays crossing the Thames, so the government’s decision to approve the Lower Thames Crossing Development Consent Order (DCO) today is excellent news. The scheme has been in the planning stages for over a decade and this is a momentous decision: industry is united in its backing for this vital trade route and when completed will unlock UK logistics, drive growth and help keep supply chains moving across the whole country.”

The British International Freight Association also welcomed the news. BIFA director general, Steve Parker, said:

“This is a great result for the campaign, backed by politicians and businesses, as well as BIFA, for a project that was first mooted in 2009 as a means of addressing the problems that congestion at the Dartford Crossing causes.

“Media reports indicate that work will commence in 2026 and could be complete by 2032. Our members, who manage the transport of a considerable amount of the UK’s visible trade, will be delighted.”

Source: Logistics UK >

 

For a freight delivery quotation or to book in your consignment, please click below…

Quote me
Ready to order now?
Excellent
International Freight Solutions Ltd5.0
See all reviews
review us on
Emma T.
3 days ago
First time using IFS and they made shipping my books to America really simple and stress free at a competitive rate. Thanks Paul & Jamie for keeping me updated throughout the process, will be using your services again soon.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for your great review Emma - it means a lot to us! We look forward to assiting you again soon.
The Rocking Horse S.
2 weeks ago
we have used IFS on a number of occasions. fantastic communication & service, would highly recommend and will be using again!
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review, James, it really is appreciated! Here is the URL for your case study - https://intfreight.co.uk/2022/10/export-from-the-rocking-horse-shop-in-york-to-new-zealand/
Tim D.
1 month ago
We use International Freight Solutions regularly. The service is always very good and they are always able to have a solution to fit our needs. Their pricing is good and they are very easy to work with and their communication is excellent.
Response from the owner:Really appreciate your kind words Tim and it is good to know you are pleased with the services we provide. We look forward to helping you again next time!
Josh B.
1 month ago
We have used Paul and his team multiple times over the past couple of years and have never had a problem. They always work hard to find the best solution, and they deliver every time. We had a major client putting a lot of pressure on us due to manufacturing delays. Paul sorted the transport quickly and kept adapting the arrangements whenever delays changed, which made things much easier for us. He managed to get our shipment from Spain to England within two days. The pricing is very reasonable and completely justified for the level of service provided. Communication is always clear throughout the entire transport process, and they consistently deliver quickly and reliably. I would highly recommend Paul and his team. We never have to worry when we contact him, and he is the only freight forwarder we trust because of the consistently excellent service.
Response from the owner:What a great review review Josh - it means a lot to us, thanks so much! We look forward to being of service to you again.
bredent U.
3 months ago
Had the best service provided by Jamie, excellent communication, went above & beyond thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the the time to leave a great review. Jamie will be delighted he got a mention!
Clare O.
4 months ago
As always IFS have provided an excellent service with plenty of support. Jamie couldn't have been more helpful and his communication is always timely and spot on. Can't recommend them highly enough.
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the glowing review Clare, it really is appreciated. Jamie will be especially pleased seeing as you have given him a mention! We look forward to assisting you again
Barry S.
4 months ago
Adam handled everything we needed for a quick delivery to Australia, the box was with us in less than a week, highly recommended.
Response from the owner:Many thanks Barry for taking the time to leave a great review for us - it is appreciated. Hope we can assist you again in the future
Jeff B.
5 months ago
Working with Catherine and IFS has been a breath of fresh air. Communication has been excellent, she keeps you informed throughout the entire process and makes something that others could easily make difficult feel… well, easy. If you want someone who treats your shipment like it actually matters (because it does), Catherine is the one. Highly recommend, my stress level definitely approves 😄.
Response from the owner:Glad you are happy with our service Jeff. Cath's communication is great - she does like to talk!😆We appreciate your business and look forward to assisting you again.
Rachel J.
7 months ago
Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.

Search Blog by Categories

Sign Up for IFS News Updates

Electric HGV charging ‘superhubs’ planned for motorway services

by | Mar 17, 2025 | Environment Reforms, Freight Industry News

A new national network of charging stations for electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) will be built, with the first 15 ‘superhubs’ to be opened by the end of 2027.

Motorway services operator Moto plans to install up to 300 charging bays for electric HGVs at 23 strategic locations by 2030.

Construction of the first two superhubs at Exeter and Tamworth is due to start in April, following a recent planning approval.

The superhubs are expected to provide capacity for up to 5,000 electric trucks, significantly reducing emissions by more than 500,000 metric tons of CO₂ per year, the equivalent of planting more than 20 million trees.

Moto’s CEO, Ken McMeikan, said:

“Just as we have done for passenger cars, where we now have over 1,000 EV charging bays, Moto will lead the way in creating a sustainable, accessible, and reliable charging network for trucks and lorries.

“Our eHGV superhubs will support the decarbonisation of the transportation network, a key part of the energy transition.”

Read more from Fleet News >

 

For a freight delivery quotation or to book in your consignment, please click below…

Quote me
Ready to order now?
Excellent
International Freight Solutions Ltd5.0
See all reviews
review us on
Emma T.
3 days ago
First time using IFS and they made shipping my books to America really simple and stress free at a competitive rate. Thanks Paul & Jamie for keeping me updated throughout the process, will be using your services again soon.
Response from the owner:Thanks so much for your great review Emma - it means a lot to us! We look forward to assiting you again soon.
The Rocking Horse S.
2 weeks ago
we have used IFS on a number of occasions. fantastic communication & service, would highly recommend and will be using again!
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review, James, it really is appreciated! Here is the URL for your case study - https://intfreight.co.uk/2022/10/export-from-the-rocking-horse-shop-in-york-to-new-zealand/
Tim D.
1 month ago
We use International Freight Solutions regularly. The service is always very good and they are always able to have a solution to fit our needs. Their pricing is good and they are very easy to work with and their communication is excellent.
Response from the owner:Really appreciate your kind words Tim and it is good to know you are pleased with the services we provide. We look forward to helping you again next time!
Josh B.
1 month ago
We have used Paul and his team multiple times over the past couple of years and have never had a problem. They always work hard to find the best solution, and they deliver every time. We had a major client putting a lot of pressure on us due to manufacturing delays. Paul sorted the transport quickly and kept adapting the arrangements whenever delays changed, which made things much easier for us. He managed to get our shipment from Spain to England within two days. The pricing is very reasonable and completely justified for the level of service provided. Communication is always clear throughout the entire transport process, and they consistently deliver quickly and reliably. I would highly recommend Paul and his team. We never have to worry when we contact him, and he is the only freight forwarder we trust because of the consistently excellent service.
Response from the owner:What a great review review Josh - it means a lot to us, thanks so much! We look forward to being of service to you again.
bredent U.
3 months ago
Had the best service provided by Jamie, excellent communication, went above & beyond thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the the time to leave a great review. Jamie will be delighted he got a mention!
Clare O.
4 months ago
As always IFS have provided an excellent service with plenty of support. Jamie couldn't have been more helpful and his communication is always timely and spot on. Can't recommend them highly enough.
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the glowing review Clare, it really is appreciated. Jamie will be especially pleased seeing as you have given him a mention! We look forward to assisting you again
Barry S.
4 months ago
Adam handled everything we needed for a quick delivery to Australia, the box was with us in less than a week, highly recommended.
Response from the owner:Many thanks Barry for taking the time to leave a great review for us - it is appreciated. Hope we can assist you again in the future
Jeff B.
5 months ago
Working with Catherine and IFS has been a breath of fresh air. Communication has been excellent, she keeps you informed throughout the entire process and makes something that others could easily make difficult feel… well, easy. If you want someone who treats your shipment like it actually matters (because it does), Catherine is the one. Highly recommend, my stress level definitely approves 😄.
Response from the owner:Glad you are happy with our service Jeff. Cath's communication is great - she does like to talk!😆We appreciate your business and look forward to assisting you again.
Rachel J.
7 months ago
Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.

Search Blog by Categories

Sign Up for IFS News Updates