UK importers are facing a combination of rising port costs and significant changes to steel trade measures in 2026.
Port Charges Increasing Across UK Terminals
Due to ongoing volatility in global energy markets, UK ports are introducing higher charges to offset rising operating costs.
From 1 May 2026:
- At DP World London Gateway, the Energy Adjustment Mechanism (EAM) will increase by £6.25 to £26.51 per import laden container
- At DP World Southampton, the EAM will increase by £15.71 to £23.07 per import laden container
- At Hutchinson Port Felixstowe, the Emergency Fuel Surcharge (EFS) will increase by £2.43 to £5.38 per import laden container
From 1 June 2026:
- At Teesport, an Infrastructure Charge of £2.25 per laden import and export unit will be applied
These charges are applicable for both container and trailer inventory linked imports and will be applied to the customs declarant.
UK Steel Import Changes from 1 July 2026
The UK Government has announced new steel trade measures that will come into force on 1 July 2026, replacing the current steel safeguard regime.
The changes are expected to have a significant impact on UK businesses importing steel and steel-related products, with reduced tariff-free quotas and a substantial increase in duty for imports above those quotas.
What Is Changing?
From 1 July 2026:
- Tariff-free quotas for 20 steel product categories under chapters 72 & 73 will be reduced by approximately 60%
- Imports above quota will be subject to a 50% tariff
- Quotas will be allocated quarterly on a first-come, first-served basis
- The measures will apply to steel products that are produced in the UK
What This Means for Importers
If your goods are subject to the new measure, you could face:
- Increased port-related costs across all imports
- Significant increases in import duty costs for steel products
- Reduced margins
- Shipment delays if quota is exhausted
Because quota is allocated when customs declarations are accepted, the timing of customs clearance will be critical.
What Importers Should Do Now
Businesses should begin preparing by:
- Reviewing affected commodity codes
- Assessing potential duty and cost exposure
- Checking existing supply contracts
- Reviewing shipment timing
- Seeking expert customs advice
How Denholm Good Logistics Can Help
Our customs specialists can provide:
- Commodity code and product scope reviews
- Tariff and cost impact assessments
- Customs planning
- Supply chain and sourcing advice
- Customs declaration support
Useful Resources
- UK Government announcement: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-steel-industry-backed-by-major-new-trade-measure-and-strategy
- Full policy guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uks-steel-trade-measure-from-1-july-2026/uks-steel-trade-measure-from-1-july-2026
Speak to our Team
If you would like to discuss the impact on your supply chain, please contact your usual Denholm Good Logistics representative.
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