A transport lawyer has warned that there could be a reduction in demand for international haulage and logistics if the UK votes to leave the EU on Thursday.

Laurence Pritchard of Weightmans said a Brexit would result in increased import tariffs, which could ultimately lead to a decline in trade between Britain and the rest of Europe if export volumes reduce.

He said: “The main concern is that if the rate of exportation is reduced there will be less demand for professional logistics and the fulfilment services will notice a decline in demand. UK based companies would need to consider the very real threat of losing business to EU rivals and eventually big businesses may look to base their operations in other EU territories."

He said if the public votes to leave the EU there would be a period where the trade model is negotiated, which could take years to finalise depending on what model is chosen.

He added that each European border imposes a meticulous process of passport control and goods assessment for logistics traffic which potentially could affect delivery times and increase administration.

He said: “Conversely, Brexit supporters argue that by leaving the EU, the UK will be free to negotiate its own free trade agreements more easily and export goods to non-EU countries free from current EU regulation. These trade agreements may offer more flexibility to companies as they won’t be governed by regulations set out by the EU.”

As a member of the EU, the UK has the ability to sway EU legislation and regulatory controls, an influence which may be lost if the UK votes to leave, he added.

“A post-Brexit model may further require the UK to continue to comply with a number of EU regulations and impose trade deals as appropriate. The freedom to negotiate trade deals and reduce regulatory burden is debatable depending on the model that is adopted down the line,” Pritchard said.

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