Shipping, logistics and transportation
Specialist accountancy, audit & tax support for shipping and logistics businesses.
Brebners have long supported clients in the shipping, logistics and transportation industries and we have a thorough knowledge and understanding of industry-specific accounting issues.
We deal regularly with complex international taxation issues, the tonnage tax regime, revenue recognition challenges, asset and infrastructure valuation considerations, financing and leasing arrangements and complex group structures.
We understand the risks associated with operating in these industries, including business, regulatory and compliance risks.
Why Choose Brebners
✔ Deep industry expertise
Brebners have been around since 1933 and have supported clients in the maritime and shipping industry for decades. Several of our largest clients operate in this sector. We continue to act as auditors, accountants and tax advisers to:
- Port owners
- Ship owners
- Shipping agencies
- Ship management companies
- Cargo handlers
- Multimodal transportation companies
✔ Dedicated, partner‑led service
We’re large enough to have specialists in all areas - tax, payroll, audit, corporate finance and more - but small enough that you always receive a personal service and quick answers. With a thorough understanding of your industry already, our team will speak your language yet offer jargon-free advice.
✔ We move with the times
Brebners use cutting-edge secure technologies in our dealings with clients, including the use of file transfer and query management portals and e-signature platforms for seamless data transfer and communication.
How We Help Shipping, Logistics and Transportation Industry Clients
We have supported our shipping, logistics and transportation industry clients with:
- Statutory Audit services
- Accounts preparation including consolidated accounts for international groups
- Corporation tax compliance and planning, including tonnage tax
- Tax-efficient group structures
- Due diligence associated with corporate acquisitions
- Restructuring advice
- Investigations into the effectiveness of internal controls
- Pension scheme advice
- VAT advice
Ready to Talk?
If you're looking for accountants, auditors or tax advisers for your business who understand your industry and speak your language, our specialist team is here to help.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions
A company operating qualifying vessels can in certain circumstances use an alternative methodology for calculating profits subject to corporation tax, by reference to the net tonnage of the ship instead of the profit or loss of the shipping trade and chargeable gains or losses on tonnage tax assets. This is a complex area, with strict rules and eligibility conditions.
Shipping, transportation and logistics companies may be subject to different tax rules depending on where and how they operate and may need to consider withholding tax, permanent establishment rules, transfer pricing regulations and complexities associated with VAT and customs duties. Proper structuring and documentation are essential to ensure compliance and avoid double taxation.
Brebners’ clients operating in the shipping and logistics industries face a unique combination of accounting and tax issues as well as industry specific opportunities for tax planning. We believe that our industry knowledge and experience bring significant added value and will help your business avoid potential pitfalls. Contact us today for a no-obligation initial discussion.