The ferry company was responding to discussions on social media as Islanders shared experiences about travelling to France since the end of the post-Brexit transition period on 31 December.
A Condor Ferries spokesman said that the French equivalent of VAT, known as TVA, was payable in respect of goods being transported, for example to a second home.
In a statement, the company said: ‘From 1 January 2021, when the UK finally left the European Union, additional charges now apply to pay for certain documentation for private individuals who wish to transport personal effects to and from the continent.
‘These costs can include TVA of up to 20% of the value of the goods being exported, along with detailed paperwork that is required by Customs and Excise. This means providing an inventory of all items and their proof of ownership, completing transit declarations, customs and security clearances along with evidence of the passenger’s domicile.’
The spokesman added that the matter was entirely in the hands of, and directly controlled by, the French Border Agency and had placed ‘significant operational and administrative additional requirements’ on Condor.
‘No part of the changes since 1 January are the result of Condor’s actions,’ he said. ‘The work involved is very time-consuming and we apply an administration fee to customers for providing these services.’
Customers are recommended to check details on the website condorferriesfreight.co.uk/services/house-move-clearance.
