The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has launched an updated version of its standard trading conditions (STC), replacing the previous version revised in 2021. It can be used by members from December 31, 2025.
The latest edition has been produced following ongoing changes in the UK’s trading procedures, which has seen a jump in Customs-related activities. BIFA also points to the increased turbulence in global trade which has increased risks on its corporate members.
After review, it was highlighted that the STC must continue to provide a fair and balanced contract between its members and their customers. To do this, the text of the 2025 edition was vigorously scrutinised against the Unfair Contracts Act 1977 to ensure legal compliance. With this edition, BIFA has also modernised the language used in an effort to improve clarity.
“Over time, in the same ways laws must change, so do contractual rights and obligations that flow from these changes. Therefore, it is essential to review any set of industry terms against changes in legislation and industry practice,” said Steve Parker, director general of BIFA.
“The review proved a rather bigger project than expected and has led to a significant revision and expansion of the STC, which has now been completed,” Parker added. “The importance of BIFA members ensuring that their incorporation of the BIFA STC into their contracts with their customers is effective cannot be stressed enough.”
To provide freight forwarders reasonable time to familiarise themselves with the changes, members can use the STC from December 31, 2025, but can view the document on the BIFA website. Moreover, two webinars will be held for members on October 14 and October 23, outlining the key changes between the 2021 and 2025 editions of the STC.
