Cross-channel freight during Christmas: Key challenges and planning tips for UK–EU trade

Written by Simpex Express

With the Christmas period fast approaching, businesses moving goods between the UK and Europe are entering what is traditionally the most challenging phase of the logistics calendar.

Seasonal surges in demand, reduced driver availability, and fluctuating transport capacity combine to create tough operating environments.

While cross-Channel transport generally remains stable throughout the year, the final quarter always brings a unique set of pressures.

Manufacturing output increases, retailers push last-minute stock replenishment, and many other sectors face urgent deadlines to meet. As outbound volumes rise, many European drivers also begin returning home for the holidays, reducing available capacity and pushing prices upward.

For businesses that rely on predictable transit times, particularly those in just-in-time manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or high-value goods, these seasonal fluctuations can lead to significant operational disruption. Even small delays can have knock-on effects for production schedules or customer commitments.

Another growing challenge is documentation accuracy.  

Nearly six on from the Brexit changes, many exporters are still navigating evolving customs requirements.

Incorrect paperwork or commodity codes remains a leading cause of vehicles being held at ports, and French customs systems occasionally experience outages that further impact flow.

With cross-Channel routes already under pressure during peak periods, even minor compliance errors can quickly escalate into extended delays.

To manage these risks, logistics providers are placing greater emphasis on early planning, adjusting schedules and advising customers to book transport earlier than usual.

For businesses shipping time-critical goods, securing a vehicle with as much notice as possible has become increasingly important, especially when importing into the UK.

Some companies are turning to express transport services to maintain reliability, these options allow smaller shipments to move quickly while still benefiting from more predictable transit times.

Simpex Express, which has operated UK to/from EU express freight services since 2009, their demand for both express transport and customs support increases significantly from late October through December.

Its sister company, Samphire Cargo, manages customs operations at Dover and Lesquin in France, noting that exporters and importers are relying more heavily on experienced customs partners to avoid seasonal delays.

As peak season nearly upon us, businesses exporting and importing to and from Europe are encouraged to plan ahead, review customs procedures, and maintain close communication with their transport providers.

Although seasonal challenges are inevitable, proactive planning and accurate documentation remain the most effective tools for ensuring goods move smoothly across the Channel during one of the busiest times of year.