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Brexit
Frequently Asked Questions
SMA has long been established in the United Kingdom and is committed to continue bringing its best support to its customers and partners.
Though there will be some adjustments with BREXIT, SMA expects that the vast majority of its operations will remain unchanged.
Other questions?
You will probably find the answer on the SMA global FAQ.
It solves more than 400 questions.
I am a direct buyer (importer such as Distributor, EPC, Project buyer)
Does SMA still deliver to the UK?
Yes !
In general, what should I be aware of?
Please note that an importer either has to be registered at customs to organize the customs clearance by their own or otherwise a customs broker (e.g. Schenker, DHL, K+N, GLS, TNT, Schmelz…) can be used for their services.
How can I check the duties payable on SMA products when I import them into the UK? What are the Standard Industrial Classifications Codes (SIC) and commodity codes for string inverters, central inverters, MVPS, and spare parts.
The UK government provides an online service to check the UK Global Tariff that will apply to goods from 1 January 2021. The current UK Global Tariff can be checked by the customers under the following link: https://www.check-future-uk-trade-tariffs.service.gov.uk/tariff.
This service integrates a searchable database of commodity codes.
Which Incoterms shall SMA apply towards/from the UK ?
The recommendation is Incoterm CIP (version 2020)
Does the labeling on SMA devices comply to new UK requirements?
No specific marking is requested. CE marking is still valid.
Do I need a proforma invoice in advance to apply for an import license? Will it include the SIC/commodity codes?
The requirements for an import license must be checked by the customers themselves. So far, we are not aware that the import of our products in UK requires a license. Of course, the importer has to be registered at customs office. Further information on the UK government dedicated page: https://www.gov.uk/starting-to-import/import-licences-and-certificates.
Where do I find needed Tax, Import, Export documents I need?
The following webpage provides a source of information for import and export guidance and support :
https://www.gov.uk/prepare-to-import-to-great-britain-from-january-2021
Will SMA’s prices be higher from the 1st of January 2021 on?
SMA’s general pricing will not change. However, from 1 January 2021, the shipments from EU to UK may be impacted by the applications of custom duties, taxes and the cost of organization custom clearance. This will most likely lead to a price increase.
Does SMA expect delays in delivery from 01.01.2021?
The devices will have to be customs cleared, which may lead to higher delivery times.
I am an indirect buyer (installer, end-customer)
Does SMA still deliver to the UK?
Yes!
Do I need an import license as installer/end-customer?
In general, no. Import & other duties will have been fulfilled by the importer. It is advisable to check whether this has been performed.
Further information on the UK government dedicated page: www.gov.uk/starting-to-import/import-licences-and-certificates.
Will SMA’s prices be higher from the 1st of January 2021 on?
SMA’s general pricing will not change. However, from 1 January 2021, the shipments from EU to UK may be impacted by the applications of custom duties, taxes and the cost of organization custom clearance. This will most likely lead to a price increase.
Does SMA expect delays in delivery from 01.01.2021?
The devices will have to be customs cleared, which may lead to higher delivery times.
I have a question related to service (after-sales)
How will the Service and exchange of devices be impacted?
SMA’s Service organization will remain unchanged and continue to perform under the same conditions.
However, the replacement devices will have to be customs cleared, which may lead to higher delivery times.
Do I have to pay export taxes for the return of defect devices to Germany?
No. The defect devices are returned to SMA UK, which in turn will take over the responsibility for this.
Northern Ireland
Will devices be sent straight from Germany to avoid UK customs?
We are studying the possibilities but are also waiting for the final outcomes of the Brexit negotiation.