BIFA Updates Trading Rules for End of Year

Change is in the air for UK freight. The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has released a new version of its Standard Trading Conditions (STC), replacing the 2021 edition. Designed to reflect today’s fast-changing trading landscape, the update comes as customs activities grow and global trade continues to face new challenges.

Adapting to modern trade

BIFA says the latest review was driven by the need to keep contracts fair, balanced and compliant. The 2025 edition has been thoroughly checked against the Unfair Contracts Act 1977 to ensure it meets legal standards. The Association also aimed to modernise the language so that it is easier to understand and helps reduce disputes between members and their customers.

“A bigger project than expected”

BIFA’s director general, Steve Parker, explained: “Over time, in the same ways laws must change, so do contractual rights and obligations that flow from these changes.” He added that the review “proved a rather bigger project than expected and has led to a significant revision and expansion of the STC.”

Need to know

The new Standard Trading Conditions will take effect on December 31st, 2025. Parker emphasised that “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.”