Ship from China to United Kingdom

Shipping from China to the UK: A Comprehensive Guide

Shipping goods from China to the UK has become increasingly common due to the growth of international trade and e-commerce. Whether you are a business owner importing products or an individual sending a package, understanding the shipping process is essential. 

If you are looking for transportation and logistics services from China to the UK, we, HYI Freight provides a diverse range of services customized to meet your specific requirements, include DAP, DDP, Air, sea, rail and express shipment. Our dedicated UK country guide offers comprehensive information on various aspects of your shipment from China to the UK, including transit times, rates, procedures, customs duties, and taxes. 

Table of Contents

International express shipping from China to UK

Shipping from China to the UK via international express services like DHL, FedEx, or UPS,TNT, etc is a popular and efficient way to send packages quickly and securely. These international courier services offer expedited shipping options with door-to-door delivery, tracking capabilities, and reliable transit times. By using international express services, we can ensure that your shipment from China to the UK arrives promptly and safely, making it a convenient choice for both businesses and individuals looking for fast and reliable shipping solutions.

Transit time: 2-7 days

When shipping internationally from China to the UK using an express service, the consignee will typically need the following documents for custom clearance.

Customs clearance documents include commercial invoice. (The Chinese supplier will make it for you) Packing list. (Chinese suppliers can provide), import license (if applicable).

Air freight from China to the UK

In today’s interconnected global economy, efficient logistics solutions are essential for businesses looking to expand their reach and deliver goods across borders swiftly and reliably. When it comes to shipping goods from China to the UK, air freight emerges as a better choice for businesses seeking speed and efficiency in their supply chain.

At HYI Freight, we understand the importance of seamless air freight services in facilitating international trade between China and the UK. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we offer tailored air freight solutions that cater to the unique needs of our clients.

Our range of air transportation services includes airport-to-airport, door-to-door, airport-to-door and door-to-airport options.

Through our services, we carefully handle every stage of the journey to ensure your cargo reaches its destination exactly when you need it.

Typically air shipping time from China to UK is 3 to 15 days. Please note that this time frame may vary due to seasonal demand and market conditions. Our extensive experience gives us the expertise to effectively meet your logistics needs.

Our charter services provide tailor-made solutions to give you peace of mind and transport a wide range of cargo, including:

– consumer goods

– High value items

– Sensitive goods such as dangerous goods, fresh goods or perishable goods

– Time-critical transportation

– Medical supplies and humanitarian aid

– Heavy and oversized equipment

– Spare parts for cars, planes and ships

 

Air freight shipping rate, airport to airport shipping rate, updated in Dec.,2023

To get a personalized quote, fill out our form within 3 minutes 

and receive a response from our logistics experts within 24 hours.

Departure CityRangeDestination AirportPrice Per KG ($USD)Estimated Transit time (days)
ShanghaiRate for 100KGS-299KGSLondon (LHR)4.54-5
ShanghaiRate for 100KGS-299KGSManchester (MAN)4.74-5
ShanghaiRate for 100KGS-299KGSBirmingham (BHX)4.74-5
ShanghaiRate for 300KGS-1000KGSLondon (LHR)4.54-5
ShanghaiRate for 300KGS-1000KGSManchester (MAN)4.74-5
ShanghaiRate for 300KGS-1000KGSBirmingham (BHX)4.74-5
ShanghaiRate for 1000KGS+London (LHR)4.54-5
ShanghaiRate for 1000KGS+Manchester (MAN)4.74-5
ShanghaiRate for 1000KGS+Birmingham (BHX)4.74-5
ShenzhenRate for 100KGS-299KGSLondon (LHR)3.934-5
ShenzhenRate for 100KGS-299KGSManchester (MAN)4.434-5
ShenzhenRate for 100KGS-299KGSBirmingham (BHX)4.934-5
ShenzhenRate for 300KGS-1000KGSLondon (LHR)3.864-5
ShenzhenRate for 300KGS-1000KGSManchester (MAN)4.364-5
ShenzhenRate for 300KGS-1000KGSBirmingham (BHX)4.864-5
ShenzhenRate for 1000KGS+London (LHR)3.724-5
ShenzhenRate for 1000KGS+Manchester (MAN)4.224-5
ShenzhenRate for 1000KGS+Birmingham (BHX)4.724-5

Click the button now to receive an air freight quote within 24 hours! Airport to airport, airpott to door, door to door, door to airpot services from China to UK.

 

Ocean Freight from China to UK

Sea freight is the universally preferred method and an important method of importing goods from China to the UK. Under the following conditions, sea shipping becomes the best choice:

– Suppliers are close to major Chinese ports

– The volume exceeds 2 cubic meters

– No urgent delivery requirements

In China, we ensure your goods are exported from major ports such as Shanghai, Qingdao, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Dalian, Tianjin, Xiamen, Macau and Hong Kong,etc.

Cargo entering China is received at prominent UK ports including Grimsby and Immingham, London, Southampton, Liverpool and Milford.

Our service scope covers door-to-door, door-to-port to port-to-port comprehensive logistics solutions.

Choosing a door-to-door service ensures your goods are delivered seamlessly from the originating factory or retailer in China to your designated address in the UK.

Full Container Load (FCL) Service: 

– With FCL service, you have the entire container exclusively for your goods.

– You pay for the full container, regardless of whether it’s fully loaded or not.

– FCL is ideal for large shipments that can fill a container or require the security and convenience of exclusive use.

FCL(Full container load) shipping rate, port to port shipping rate, updated in Dec.,2023

Departure PortDestination PortContainer 20’ (USD)Container 40’ (USD)Estimated Transit time (days)
NingboSouthampton3350530035-38
NingboFelixstowe3400530035-38
ShanghaiSouthampton3300530033-35
ShanghaiFelixstowe3300530035-38
ShenzhenSouthampton3380530035-38
ShenzhenFelixstowe3500510020-24

To get a personalized quote, fill out our form within 3 minutes 

and receive a response from our logistics experts within 24 hours.

Less than Container Load (LCL) Service:

– LCL involves sharing a container with other shippers’ goods.

– You only pay for the space your goods occupy within the shared container.

– LCL is suitable for smaller shipments that don’t fill an entire container or for those looking to save costs on smaller volumes.

LCL(Less than container load) shipping rate, port to port shipping rate, updated in Dec.,2023

Departure PortDestination PortCost/CBM 1-5CBM (USD)Cost/CBM 6-12CBM (USD)Estimated Transit time (days)
NingboSouthampton102235-38
NingboFelixstowe102235-38
ShanghaiSouthampton102233-35
ShanghaiFelixstowe102235-38
ShenzhenSouthampton102235-38
ShenzhenFelixstowe122520-24

To get a personalized quote, fill out our form within 3 minutes 

and receive a response from our logistics experts within 24 hours.

Documents Required for Ocean Freight: Port to port service.

– Bill of Lading: A document issued by the carrier acknowledging receipt of goods for shipment.

– Commercial Invoice: Details the goods being shipped, including value, quantity, and description.

– Packing List: Provides a detailed list of the contents of the shipment.

– Certificate of Origin: Certifies the country in which the goods were produced.

When opting for ocean freight from China to the UK, consider factors like transit time, cost, and the volume of your shipment to choose between FCL and LCL services. Working with a reliable freight forwarder can help ensure a smooth and efficient shipping process for your goods.

Door to door from China to UK, without taxes and PVA(Postponed VAT Accounting) acceptable

When shipping goods door-to-door from China to the UK, HYI Freight offers door-to-door without taxes services, with customs clearance done by the consignee or HYI Freight’s agent depending on the client’s preference.

It is possible to utilize Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA) with HYI Freight for a smooth and efficient process. PVA allows for the postponed payment of import VAT until the VAT return is due, benefiting UK VAT-registered businesses by aiding cash flow management.

Since HYI Freight’s UK agent will be responsible for customs clearance, other then VAT, there are duties charges, the duties charges will be prepaid by HYI Fregith’s agent. After customs clearance is completed, the recipient needs to pay the duties, the relevant CDS documents will be provided by HYI Freight.

HYI Freight can assist in ensuring that the necessary requirements and procedures for using PVA are correctly followed, facilitating a seamless customs process. With their expertise in logistics and customs procedures, HYI Freight can help businesses navigate the complexities of importing goods from China to the UK while taking advantage of beneficial tax arrangements like PVA.

By partnering with HYI Freight for your door-to-door shipping needs from China to the UK and leveraging PVA, you can streamline the import process, manage cash flow effectively, and ensure a hassle-free delivery of goods to their final destination. 

There are door to door by express, air, slow air, sea and rail, DAP without taxes and PVA acceptable.

Door to door by express from China to the UK, transit time: 5-9 days, DAP without taxes and PVA.

Door to door by air from China to the UK, transit time: 9-15 days, DAP without taxes and PVA.

Door to door by slow air from China to the UK, transit time: 22-35 days, DAP without taxes and PVA.

Door to door by ocean from China to the UK, transit time: 35-45 days, DAP without taxes and PVA.

Door to door by rail from China to the UK, transit time: 30-40 days, DAP without taxes and PVA.

If you have any inquiries about shipment from China to UK, please click the contact button now to receive a freight quote within 24 hours.

How to check the UK duties and taxes?

To check UK import duty and taxes, you can follow these steps:

1.Understand what do you need to pay for importing goods to UK. More information able to check at UK Government website: Tax and duty at gov.uk.

2. Determine the product code: First of all, you need to find the product code for the products you import. You can use British trade tariff tools on the British government website to search for the correct code to check the duty and vat taxes rate. UK Integrated Online Tariff: Look up commodity codes, duty and VAT rates – GOV.UK (trade-tariff.service.gov.uk)

3.Check the increase in taxes and other taxes.: In addition to import duty, you also need to pay value tax (value -added tax) and other import taxes. At present, Britain’s value -added tax rate is 20 %, but it is different from product import types.

4. To calculate UK import duties  and taxes for your items, please follow these steps:

Multiply the tariff rate by the total value of the commercial shipment, which includes the commercial value of the goods, transportation costs, insurance and freight.

Multiply this duty amount by the relevant VAT rate.

The formula for calculating the tariff amount is:

Total shipment value (commodity commercial value + freight + insurance + freight) x tariff rate x VAT rate = tariff amount

5. Consider other expenses: Please remember, there may be other expenses, such as handling fees, tariff costs, and any applicable anti -temporary responsibilities or anti -theft responsibilities.

By following these steps and using the resources provided by the British government, you can check the import duty and tax applicable to your import of Britain.

Door to door from China to the UK with taxes, DDP by express, air, slow air, sea and rail

When you choose to ship goods from China to the UK using HYI Freight’s DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) terms, you will benefit from the comprehensive service in managing all aspects of your shipment, including customs clearance, duties and taxes. This means that HYI Freight will oversee the entire logistics process until the goods are delivered to the designated destination in the UK.

By choosing DDP shipping with HYI Freight, you can experience a seamless process as we handle all the necessary steps to ensure a smooth delivery from China to the UK. This all-inclusive service offers peace of mind and convenience, as you can rest assured that your shipment will be taken care of from start to finish, including customs procedures and import duties.

Working with HYI Freight for DDP shipping from China to the UK can streamline the shipping process, allowing you to focus on your core business activities while ensuring your goods reach their UK destination without incurring any additional complications or unforeseen costs.

There are door to door with taxes by express, air, slow air, sea and rail, DDP.

Door to door with taxes by express from China to the UK, transit time: 5-9 days.

Door to door with taxes by air from China to the UK, transit time: 9-15 days.

Door to door with taxes by slow air from China to the UK, transit time: 22-35 days.

Door to door with taxes by ocean from China to the UK, transit time: 35-45 days.

Door to door by ocean with taxes from China to the UK, transit time: 30-40 days.

 

How to save shipping cost?

Minimizing transportation costs is critical to optimizing the profitability of your import business. In order to determine the most cost-effective shipping solution when shipping goods from China to UK, it is recommended to follow the following guidelines:

1. Negotiate with multiple suppliers and carriers to secure competitive prices: Negotiating with multiple suppliers and carriers allows you to compare prices and terms, allowing you to choose the most economical one based on your specific requirements Shipping options, but for sure make sure the goods security while shipment.

2. Choose off-season shipping to take advantage of lower shipping costs: Timing plays a crucial role in determining shipping costs. By scheduling shipments during off-peak hours, you can take advantage of discounted rates from carriers looking to fill capacity during off-peak periods.

3. Consolidate shipments from multiple suppliers to save costs: Consolidating shipments from multiple suppliers into one shipment can significantly improve cost efficiency. By consolidating multiple orders into one shipment, you can reduce handling and shipping expenses, ultimately lowering your overall shipping costs.

4. Select the most suitable shipping method based on the cargo’s size, weight and required delivery time: Choosing the best shipping method based on the cargo’s specific characteristics such as size, weight and required delivery time is essential to minimizing costs Cost is critical. Whether you choose air freight, sea freight, or a combination of the two, choosing the right shipping method can save costs and deliver your goods efficiently.

By implementing these strategies and carefully evaluating your shipping options, you can effectively determine the most economical way to transport your goods from China to UK, ultimately making your import business operations more cost-effective.

How to find a reliable China freight forwarder? Why HYI Freight?

It is very important to choose a reliable China freight forwarding company as they will be responsible for managing the transportation of your goods and ensuring that the goods arrive at their destination safely and on time. There are several reasons to choose HYI FREIGHT as your freight forwarding company:

1. Professional experience: HYI FREIGHT has rich international freight experience and is familiar with the transportation needs and industrial regulations of various types of goods. Our professional team can provide you with efficient and reliable logistics solutions.

2. Global network: As a leading international freight forwarding company, HYI FREIGHT has established an extensive logistics network and cooperative relationships around the world. We can provide you with comprehensive logistics services covering destinations from China to Mexico.

3. Customer service: HYI FREIGHT focuses on customer experience and is committed to providing customers with personalized logistics solutions. Our customer service team is able to respond promptly to your needs and questions and ensure your shipment is handled properly.

4. Reliability and transparency: HYI FREIGHT takes integrity and transparency as its core values to ensure that customers understand the status and location of their goods throughout the entire transportation process. Their reliability and commitment make them the freight forwarding partner of choice for many businesses.

Choosing HYI FREIGHT as your freight forwarding company will provide you with high-quality logistics services, assist you in achieving smooth and efficient cargo transportation, and ensure the smooth progress of your business. If you have any questions about importing from China to UK, please contact us. 

FAQ

How long does sea shipping take from China to the UK?

Ocean shipping from China to the UK can take 25 to 60 days depending on origin and destination, load and whether the product is shipped port to port or door to door. 

How to ship from China to Amazon FBA warehouse in UK?

Shipping to an Amazon FBA warehouse requires additional steps compared to standard shipping. Your products must meet Amazon’s requirements and have appropriate labeling and packaging. Your freight forwarder can guide you through this process to ensure smooth shipping to the Amazon FBA warehouse.

When is the most cost-effective time of month to ship containers from China to UK?

Freight costs will vary based on factors such as demand, fuel costs and carrier availability. Typically, shipping may be cheaper in the middle of the month as demand may be lower. Please consult your freight forwarder for the most current and accurate information.

Is there an import tax from China to the UK?

Most items brought into the UK from China will be charged the full rate of customs duty. For more specific taxes rate, please check at below website link. 

How to minimize costs and shipping time from China to UK?

By optimizing packaging, familiarizing yourself with shipping terms (Incoterms), and working with suppliers and freight forwarders, you can reduce costs and shorten shipping times. Planning ahead and avoiding peak seasons are also effective strategie

 

Send us an inquiry now

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  1. Product name,  material, photo.
  2. Packing information: packing list or carton size and weight.
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