The Brief | Edition 6 | For Supply Chain Leaders

Every fortnight, we bring you The Brief: bite-sized updates from the supply chain and logistics sectors to keep you in the loop while you’re on the go.

This week’s edition covers some key compliance and initiative updates worth looking into:

Smart Tachograph 2 Mandatory from 19 August

From 19 August 2025, all newly registered heavy goods vehicles operating internationally in the EU (including UK–EU routes) must be fitted with Smart Tachograph 2 devices. The upgrade allows for remote enforcement checks and is designed to curb manipulation.

What this means for you:

If you run international routes, ensure compliance now to avoid penalties or border delays. Factor in installation lead times and driver familiarisation with the new technology. This may also be a good moment to assess whether the richer data from these devices could help improve scheduling, efficiency, and compliance reporting.

EU Entry/Exit System (EES) Nears Go-Live

The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is due to go live in autumn 2025, replacing manual passport stamping with biometric checks for non-EU travellers. The shift aims to improve security and track overstays but is expected to slow border crossings initially, particularly for freight drivers from the UK.

What this means for you:

Border friction is likely in the short term, so review your EU route timings, driver briefings, and contingency plans. Early engagement with customs brokers or logistics partners can help identify mitigation strategies, such as staggering crossings or building extra lead time into schedules.

Industrial Strategy Sector Plans Published

The UK Government has published detailed sector plans under the Modern Industrial Strategy, outlining specific objectives for industries including advanced manufacturing and clean energy. The plans aim to drive innovation, skills development, and infrastructure investment through targeted partnerships and funding streams.

What this means for you:

This is less about immediate change and more about positioning for long-term advantage. Review which sector priorities overlap with your business. Particularly in skills, sustainability, or tech adoption. Also look at exploring potential involvement in pilot schemes or innovation funding. Aligning early could secure influence and future contract opportunities.

Logistics UK Renews NaVCIS Partnership for Cargo Crime Crackdown

Logistics UK has renewed its partnership with the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) to target freight crime, which costs the UK economy over £250 million annually. The collaboration will focus on intelligence sharing, hotspot targeting, and raising awareness among operators.

What this means for you:

While this initiative won’t eliminate cargo crime overnight, it offers fresh opportunities for businesses to strengthen their security posture. Review your own theft-prevention measures, such as parking protocols, route planning, and load tracking, and consider engaging with industry forums or local NaVCIS initiatives. A visible commitment to security can also reassure clients and insurers.

Transpennine Route Upgrade Hits New Milestones

The £11.5 billion Transpennine Route Upgrade has reached key milestones, including track renewals, electrification progress, and new digital signalling installations. The project promises faster, more reliable rail freight and passenger services between Manchester, Leeds, and York.

What this means for you:

While benefits will take time to materialise, this is a clear signal of growing northern freight potential. If your operations involve intermodal connections in the North, it’s worth reviewing long-term routing strategies, warehousing locations, and partnerships with rail operators to tap into future capacity gains.

Insights for supply chain leaders

We’ll be back in two weeks with The Brief. Until then, feel free to share this with your team or reach out if there’s something you’d like us to cover next.

Till next time,

The MVP Recruitment & Talent Solutions Team

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