Hauliers “no longer need” a Kent Access Permit (KAP) to travel between the UK and the EU, it has been confirmed.

The scheme, launched earlier this year to reduce traffic congestion at the port of Dover, closed today, 20 April 2021.
According to the Government, the KAP scheme has been “instrumental” in avoiding delays at the border by “ensuring that HGV drivers have the correct paperwork before setting off” – enabling hauliers to pass through customs seamlessly.
While compliance with the scheme was generally high, traders voiced concerns that the initiative was creating additional, burdensome paperwork for hauliers.
Commenting on the end of the scheme, the Government said the KAP and the M20 moveable barrier will both be “stood down” as traffic returns to normal levels.
“The removal of the KAP on 20 April will mean less paperwork for hauliers, making it quicker and easier to cross the border, further supporting the already smooth flow of goods from the UK into Europe,” said the Department for Transport (DfT).
“The Kent Resilience Forum has also announced plans to stand down the moveable barrier on 24 April. Specially designed to allow traffic on the M20 to continue in both directions, the barrier and its contraflow system have been critical in keeping roads open and traffic moving as hauliers adjusted to the new border requirements.”
According to the latest statistics, exports of goods to the EU rebounded in February, increasing by £3.7 billion, or around 46.6 per cent, while imports of goods from the EU increased by £1.2 billion, or around 7.3 per cent.
However, international trade has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels.
The figures come after the launch of the SME Brexit Support Fund. Under the scheme, your business could claim up to £2,000 in grant funding to cover the costs of professional training and advice to adapt to new tax and customs processes.
For help and advice with related matters, please get in touch with our expert Brexit support team today.