The Best China Freight Forwarder for Shipping to UK
Air, Ocean, Express, and Rail Freight: Competitive Pricing with High Efficiency
Shipping from China to UK
If you’re planning to ship goods from China to the UK, you have several shipping options to consider, including air freight, ocean freight, express courier, and rail freight.
Each of these methods has its unique pros and cons, and understanding them will help you choose the best one for your specific requirements. This page provides a detailed look at each shipping option, helping you make an informed decision.
DFH is your top choice for freight forwarding when shipping from China to the UK. We offer the best shipping rates and fast delivery times. With a variety of shipping options to choose from, you can select the route that aligns with your needs. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, ensuring the best shipping solution and handling all the logistics for you. Get in touch today, and let us help you streamline your shipping!
Comprehensive Shipping Solutions from China to UK
Air Freight Services from China to UK
KFH delivers exceptional shipping rates from any airport in China to UK, with particularly competitive options from key hubs like Qingdao, Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou.
Ocean Freight Services from China to UK
KFH, a leading ocean freight forwarder in China, provides highly competitive rates for FCL and LCL shipments from China to every major seaport in UK.
Express Freight Services from China to UK
FedEx, UPS, and DHL are among the most popular express shipping providers for fast delivery to European countries. These services typically deliver within 3-5 days, offering reliable and efficient transit for a reasonable cost. Ideal for urgent shipments, they ensure your goods arrive quickly and securely.
Shipping from Alibaba in China to UK
KFH provides efficient and fast shipping services for Alibaba orders from China to UK
. With our expertise, we offer a comprehensive one-stop solution, managing everything from supplier coordination to final delivery, ensuring a seamless experience for your shipments.
DDU & DDP Delivery Options from China to UK
Experience fast deliveries with competitive pricing and customs clearance benefits through China’s self-developed logistics channels. Enjoy Tax-Free DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services, combining sea, air, or rail freight with express delivery for ultimate convenience.
Shipping to Australia UK FBA from China
The KFH team offers safe and highly efficient shipping solutions from China to any Amazon warehouse in UK. With options including express, air, ocean, and rail combined routes.
Additional Services for Shipping from China to UK
Packing & Repacking Services
Import/Export Customs Clearance Services
Quality Inspection Services
Product and Outer Carton Labeling Services
Customized Shipping Solutions
Why Choose KFH for Shipping from China to UK?
- Safe and Efficient Delivery: Ensuring your goods arrive securely and on time.
- 10+ Years of Experience: Trusted expertise in shipping from China to global destinations.
- 24/7 Online Support: Always available to assist with your shipping queries.
- Competitive Price Guarantee: Affordable rates without compromising quality.
- Professional Customer Service Team: Dedicated support to guide you at every step.
- One-Stop Solutions: Comprehensive services for all your shipping needs.
- Door-to-Door Delivery: Convenient and seamless logistics from start to finish.
- Consolidation and Distribution Services: Efficient handling for multiple shipments.
- Complete Documentation Assistance: Full support with paperwork and shipping documents.
- Personal and Business Shipments: Solutions tailored for both individual and corporate clients.
- Strong Customs Clearance Team: Expertise in managing customs processes in and out of China.
- Diverse Shipping Routes: Flexible options to meet your customized logistics requirements.
Step-by-Step Shipping Process from China to UK
Quotation and Shipping Method Confirmation
Coordinate with Supplier for Pickup Arrangement
Prepare Shipping Documents and Inspect Goods Before Loading
Export Customs Clearance and Insurance Assistance
International Shipping Solutions
Import Customs Clearance Services
Final Mile Transport from Air or Sea Ports
Shipped Directly to Your Destination or Amazon Warehouse
Shipping from China to UK: Your Comprehensive Guide
Are you looking for shipping services from China to the UK? What factors should you consider when shipping? Whether you’re in e-commerce, manufacturing, or managing a warehouse supply chain, there’s a shipping method tailored for your business. In this article, we’ll cover the key considerations you need to know before shipping goods from your China suppliers to the UK.
China is often referred to as the world’s factory, with a rich history of producing high-quality goods for the global market. This trend continues as China’s economy grows, making it an attractive manufacturing hub for businesses worldwide. Companies choose to import from China due to its low-cost labor, excellent infrastructure, and abundant resources for producing a wide range of products.
As a result, many UK businesses are increasingly importing from China, choosing it over other countries due to these advantages. This growing demand for goods from China has led to a surge in shipping from China to the UK.
Shipping Goods from China to the UK
Shipping goods from China to the UK isn’t as complicated as it may seem. You can select the most appropriate option based on your needs. Air freight, while the fastest, is the most expensive choice for transport. On the other hand, sea freight is the most common and cost-effective method, though it takes more time. Air transport is ideal for urgent deliveries, while sea freight works well for less time-sensitive shipments. Partnering with a reliable freight forwarder from China can make the process smoother. The first step in shipping between China and the UK is selecting the right shipping mode.
What is the most affordable shipping method from China to the UK?
Before determining the cheapest way to ship from China to the UK, it’s important to understand the various shipping routes available. Each method comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at these options:
10 Key Shipping Methods for Transporting Goods from China to the UK
1. Air Freight Shipping from China to the United Kingdom
What is air freight shipping?
Air freight is a shipping method that transports goods from China to the UK via airplane.
What is the shipping time for air freight from China to the UK?
For shipments from a supplier’s factory in China to your local airport in the UK, the typical shipping time is between 3 to 9 days. Here’s how the time is broken down:
Pick-up Time: 1-3 days (This depends on the distance between your supplier’s factory and the airport. We recommend selecting an airport nearest to your supplier for faster pick-up.)
Air Freight Time: 1-3 days (This refers to the time taken from the airport in China to the airport in the UK. Most shipments arrive the same day or the next day, but if a transit is needed, it may take up to three days.)
Delivery Time: 2-3 days (This is the time taken from the UK airport to your door. It includes customs clearance and delivery to any address in the UK.)
2. Sea Freight Shipping from China to the UK
What is the ocean freight?
Ocean freight is a shipping method that transports goods via sea between ports, from a seaport in China to a seaport in the United Kingdom.
There are two main types of ocean freight you can choose from: FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load).
What does FCL Shipping (Full Container Load) mean?
FCL (Full Container Load) is a shipping method where you fill an entire container with your goods, choosing either a 20-foot or 40-foot container. This option is ideal for larger shipments where you can fill one or more containers. FCL is commonly used for ocean freight shipping from China to the UK.
What does LCL shipping mean?
LCL (Less Than Container Load) shipping refers to ocean freight where your goods do not fill an entire container. Instead, your products are combined with goods from other shippers to share a single container. This method is ideal when your cargo volume is not enough to fill a full container.
What is the typical transit time for ocean freight from China to the UK?
The transit time for sea freight from China to the UK generally depends on the departure seaport in China and the destination seaport in the UK. Faster ocean shipping typically takes around 18-25 days to reach the selected UK port. In a more conservative estimate, the shipping duration can range from 25 to 45 days, depending on the type of ocean freight you choose.
3. Rail Freight Shipping from China to the UK
What is the Rail freight shipping？
Rail freight shipping is the transportation of goods by train, offering a convenient and efficient way to move products from China to the UK.
This method typically involves loading goods onto railcars, which are then transported across countries by rail.
There are numerous advantages to rail freight shipping, such as the ability to move large quantities of goods at once and its relatively fast transit times. Additionally, rail freight helps alleviate road congestion and is often considered more environmentally friendly compared to other shipping methods.
What is the transit time for rail freight shipping from China to the UK?
The rail freight delivery time usually ranges from 20 to 25 days after the train departs from the China station. It typically takes 2-7 days from picking up the goods at your supplier’s factory to load them into the container. Once the goods arrive at the train station in the UK, customs clearance and delivery to your door take around 3-5 days.
4. Express Shipping from China to the UK
Express shipping is a fast and efficient method of transporting goods from a warehouse in China to UK destinations, including homes, offices, Amazon warehouses, or FBA centers, through Express Courier companies.
For urgent shipments that need quick delivery from China to the UK, express shipping is the best solution. It offers faster, more reliable, and efficient logistics compared to other shipping methods.
Notable express shipping services from China to the UK include DHL Express, UPS Express, and FedEx Express.
Express shipping is a door-to-door service, meaning there’s no need to pick up your cargo from the airport or seaport. From your supplier’s address in China to your doorstep in the UK, the process is handled directly.
Shipping costs for express services are determined based on the gross weight or dimensional weight, whichever is greater. The calculated weight is considered the chargeable weight for your goods.
What is the estimated shipping time for DHL from China to the UK?
DHL Express ships your goods from your China supplier to the UK destination within 3 to 7 days.
How long does it take for UPS and FedEx to ship from China to the UK?
UPS Express and FedEx Express offer both economical and priority shipping methods for deliveries from China to the UK.
- Economic Methods: Deliver within 5-7 days.
- Priority Methods: Deliver in just 3-4 days.
5. Air Freight Combined with Express Freight from China to the UK
Air freight combined with Express Freight from China to the UK is a door-to-door shipping method that first transports your goods from China to the UK via air freight. Once the goods arrive at the UK airport and complete customs clearance, including the payment of import taxes, they are then delivered directly to your specified address in the UK using UPS or FedEx express freight. This service offers a fast and efficient way to ensure your goods reach their destination swiftly and securely.
Advantages of Air Freight Combined with Express Freight from China to the UK:
- Fast and reliable shipping: Offers one of the quickest and most punctual delivery times.
- No customs hassle: We handle all the customs clearance processes for both China and the UK, ensuring a smooth experience for you.
- Import taxes handled: We take care of the import taxes, so you don’t need to worry about extra charges.
- Simplified shipment processing: The process is easier and more efficient, with clear tracking available for your shipment at all stages.
- Large shipment capacity: This method can accommodate large quantities of goods, making it ideal for bulk shipping.
Disadvantages:
- Higher costs: This combined shipping method tends to be one of the most expensive options available.
- Limited to standard packages: Typically, only commonly packed carton packages are accepted, limiting the types of items that can be shipped this way.
6. Air Freight and Truck Freight Combined for Shipping from China to the UK
This is another door-to-door logistics option that first transports goods from China to UK airports via air freight. Once the goods arrive at the UK airports and complete customs clearance, they are delivered to the final door address in the UK by truck. This method is ideal for oversized cartons, such as wooden crates, flight cases, and pallets.
Advantages:
- Faster transit time compared to ocean freight
- Lower shipping costs than combining air freight with express services
- Accepts oversized carton shipments
- No weight or volume restrictions for each carton
Disadvantages:
- Shipping may be affected by weather conditions
- Shipping costs are higher than ocean freight
7. Rail Way Freight Combined with Express Freight from China to the UK
This is a door-to-door delivery service that starts with rail freight from China to the UK. Once the goods clear customs and import duties are paid, they are delivered directly to your door in the UK by express freight services such as UPS or FedEx.
Advantages:
- More affordable than air freight
- Faster than ocean freight
- Suitable for commonly packed cargo
- Environmentally friendly shipping method
Disadvantages:
- Longer transit times compared to air freight
- More expensive than ocean freight
8. Rail Freight and Truck Freight Combined from China to the UK
This is a door-to-door delivery service that utilizes rail freight to transport goods from China to the UK via rail. Once the goods arrive in the UK and clear customs, they are delivered to the final destination by truck.
Advantages:
- Secured pallet delivery service
- Faster than ocean freight
- More cost-effective than air freight and express shipping
- Accepts full container load shipments with a large quantity of goods
- Suitable for less-than-container load shipments
- Convenient door-to-door shipping method
- No need to handle customs clearance
Disadvantages:
- Transit time is longer than express freight
- Slower than air freight
- Shipping costs are higher than ocean freight
9. Ocean Shipping combined with Express Freight From China to UK
This door-to-door shipping method combines sea freight (LCL) with express shipping.
The process begins with sea freight from China to the UK, and after the goods complete customs clearance and import taxes are paid, they are delivered to the final destination in the UK via UPS or FedEx.
Advantages of Sea Freight Combined with Express Shipping from China to the UK:
- Capable of handling pallet shipments.
- More affordable than air freight and rail freight.
- Door-to-door delivery from China to the UK.
- No need for you to handle customs clearance.
- Import taxes are taken care of.
- Environmentally friendly shipping option.
Disadvantages:
- Full container load shipments are not accepted.
- Transit time is longer than air and express shipping.
- Weather conditions can affect goods during transport.
10. Ocean Freight and Truck Freight Combination from China to the UK
This LCL Shipping Door-to-Door method first transports goods from China to the UK by sea freight and then delivers them from the UK seaport to your door by truck freight.
Advantages of Sea Freight and Truck Combination Shipping Method:
- Ideal for heavy cargo and large volumes of goods.
- Perfect for shipments that do not require immediate delivery.
- One of the most cost-effective shipping methods from China to the UK.
- Accepts less-than-container load (LCL) shipments.
- Flexible with multiple shipping line options.
- Also supports full container load (FCL) shipments.
Disadvantages:
- Longer transit times compared to air freight and express shipping.
- Potential delays due to weather conditions.
International Export/Import Airports and Seaports Between China and the UK
What are the main container ports in the UK?
The busiest container ports in the United Kingdom, based on the volume of goods handled, are as follows:
Port of Felixstowe: Located in Suffolk, the Port of Felixstowe stands as the UK’s largest and busiest container port, and it ranks among the largest in Europe.
Port of Immingham: This vital port supports the UK’s supply chain, playing a key role in ensuring reliable electricity generation for the country.
Port of Tilbury: Situated along the River Thames in Essex, the Port of Tilbury is frequently used for importing goods from China, the USA, Australia, and the Middle East.
Port of Grangemouth: Scotland’s largest and busiest container port, located between Glasgow and Edinburgh, in the heart of Scotland’s industrial region.
Port of Liverpool: Recognized as the most centrally located port in the entire United Kingdom.
London Gateway Port: A modern addition to the UK’s port network, London Gateway sits along the River Thames in London.
Port of Southampton: A prominent passenger port that also handles substantial cargo. Situated on the south coast, it is ideally connected to both rail and road systems in the region.
What are the main export ocean container ports in China?
As the world’s manufacturing hub, China’s seaports play a vital role in transporting its products across the globe.
When shipping goods from China to the UK via sea freight, you can choose from the following key seaports for both less-than-container load (LCL) and full-container load (FCL) shipments. These ports offer competitive rates:
Shenzhen
Shanghai
Guangzhou
Ningbo
Qingdao
Dalian
Hong Kong
Tianjin
Xiamen
Fuzhou
What are the main airports in the UK?
Airports play a crucial role in logistics and business operations across the United Kingdom.
In London, the primary airports are:
Gatwick Airport
Heathrow Airport
Stansted Airport
For the rest of the United Kingdom, the key airports include:
Belfast International Airport
Birmingham Airport
Doncaster Sheffield Airport
East Midlands International Airport
Edinburgh Airport
These airports are essential hubs for both domestic and international air travel, supporting business and trade across the region.
What are the main export airports in China?
As one of the world’s largest economies, China is home to several major airports that facilitate the export of goods to the UK and across Europe. Key airports for shipping from China to the UK include:
Beijing Capital International Airport
Shanghai Pudong International Airport
Shenzhen Baoan International Airport
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport
Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport
What documents are needed when shipping from China to the UK?
Shipping documents are crucial when exporting goods from China to the UK. These documents determine whether goods will arrive on time, successfully depart from China, and reach the correct destination. Here are the essential shipping documents you need to prepare before each shipment from China:
- Commercial Invoice: Provided by your Chinese supplier.
- Packing List: Also provided by the supplier in China.
- Proforma Invoice: Typically obtained before making payment to your supplier.
- Certificate of Products: Request this from your Chinese supplier.
- Customs Clearance Documents: Prepared by your Chinese supplier.
- Bill of Lading: Issued by your freight forwarder once shipping arrangements are confirmed.
What goods are allowed to be shipped from China to the United Kingdom?
In international trade, most goods are generally allowed to be shipped from China to the United Kingdom. These include, but are not limited to:
- Machinery and Equipment
- Textiles
- Light Apparel
- Medical Equipment
- Telecommunications Gear
- Capped Jewelry
- Musical Instruments
- Computers
- Television Sets
- Personalized Gifts
- Carpets
- Paper Products
- Toys
- Perfumes
- Jewelry
- Furniture
- Kitchen Appliances
- Dining Items
- Living Room Furniture
- Entertainment Products
- Sporting Goods
- Wound Care Products
- Respiratory Equipment
- Diagnostic Tools
- Hospital Equipment
- Chemicals
- Aluminum
- Plastics
- Rubber
- Platinum
- Semi-precious Stones
- Precious Metals
- Tin
- Zinc
For any goods not mentioned above, you are welcome to check the catalog on platforms like Alibaba for more detailed listings.
What goods are prohibited from being shipped from China to the United Kingdom?
While many goods can be exported from China to the United Kingdom, certain items are prohibited. These include, but are not limited to:
- Aerosol Sprays
- Cans
- Weapons
- Firearms
- Ammunition
- Explosive Devices
- Gear Boxes
- Generators
- Engines
- Life Jackets
- Fire Extinguishers
- Ivory
- Items Made from Ivory
- Bronzes
- Marbles
- Statuary
- Antiques
- Valuable Rugs
- Works of Art
For any other goods not listed, it’s important to check the latest UK import regulations to ensure compliance.
What is the best shipping method from China to the UK?
There are several shipping methods available for sending goods from China to the UK, and the best option for your business will depend on various factors.
Air Freight is typically the fastest method, making it ideal for urgent shipments. However, it tends to be the most expensive option.
Sea Freight is slower but often more cost-effective, especially for larger and heavier shipments. It offers a more economical solution for businesses looking to save on shipping costs.
If time is of the essence, Express Shipping Services may be a suitable choice. While these services are more expensive than standard shipping methods, they can deliver goods within a few days.
Ultimately, the best shipping method for your business will depend on your specific requirements, shipment size, and budget.
9 tips on how to save money when shipping from China to the UK
With rising fuel prices, saving on shipping costs has become increasingly important. To reduce expenses when shipping from China to the UK, here are some effective tips:
Book in Advance: Plan and schedule your shipment ahead of time to take advantage of better rates.
Request Quotes and Negotiate: Always ask for quotes from multiple freight forwarders and negotiate to lower charges where possible.
Ship During Off-Peak Seasons: The winter season tends to be the busiest, while the summer months are generally less hectic. Scheduling shipments during the off-peak summer season can help save money. Avoid the holiday season, such as before Chinese New Year and Christmas, when prices often spike.
Use the Shipper’s Packaging: Many shippers offer free packaging, which can save you a significant amount compared to buying your own supplies.
Review Your Quote: Carefully check what services are included in your quote. Ensure you understand whether it’s door-to-door or port-to-port, so you aren’t hit with unexpected fees.
Look for Association Discounts: Investigate whether your business qualifies for shipping discounts or special rates. Many logistics companies offer discounts to businesses, so be sure to ask about available savings.
Verify Shipping Capacity: Ensure your freight forwarder can handle your shipment. Check the closest seaports or airports to your suppliers in China that your forwarder covers.
Work with an Experienced Freight Forwarder in China: It’s often more cost-effective and efficient to work with a freight forwarder based in China, as they’ll have better local knowledge and access to resources.
Choose a Reliable Freight Forwarder Near Your Suppliers: Select a trustworthy freight forwarder located close to your suppliers in China, rather than asking the supplier to arrange the shipment for you.
By following these tips, you can optimize your shipping process and reduce costs when sending goods from China to the UK.
Why should you choose KFH as your freight forwarder?
KFH has been a trusted name in China freight forwarding since 2008. For over a decade, KFH Global Logistics has consistently provided top-tier shipping solutions, ensuring seamless delivery for customers worldwide. Whether you’re shipping goods from China to the UK or any other part of the globe, KFH is here to handle your logistics needs.
When looking for a reliable freight forwarder that meets your business’s demands, it’s crucial to partner with the right company. KFH offers more than just air freight shipping from China to the UK—we provide comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs. Choosing KFH as your freight forwarding partner from China can offer your business substantial benefits, much like gaining a valuable client. Here’s why KFH Logistics is the right choice:
Expertise in Freight Forwarding
With over 13 years of experience, KFH is a trusted partner for over 4,000 companies worldwide. We offer a broad range of freight and shipping services, customized to meet your specific forwarding needs.
Customer-Centric Approach
At KFH, our customers are our top priority. Our dedicated 24/7 online support ensures that you can track your cargo shipments at any time. Our experienced staff is committed to monitoring every aspect of your shipping process, ensuring timely and cost-effective solutions for your peace of mind.
Lower Rates Than Competitors
KFH is an international freight forwarder that serves businesses of all sizes, from small to medium enterprises. We offer various shipping options at competitive rates, ensuring that you receive the most cost-effective solution for your business, without compromising on service quality.
Comprehensive Shipping Solutions
In addition to our core freight forwarding services, KFH offers a range of related solutions to make your shipping experience stress-free and efficient:
- Free Warehousing
- Customs Clearance Documentation
- Cargo Insurance
- Free Relabeling and Repackaging
- Dropshipping
- Freight Consolidation
- Customs Handling and Duty Payment
- Additional services available upon request
With years of experience and a reliable team, KFH guarantees that your shipping transactions will be handled smoothly, even when challenges arise. We are your dedicated partner for all logistics needs, making shipping from China to the UK worry-free.
Get in touch with us today to receive a quote or to inquire about any specific requirements. Our professional customer support team is ready to assist you promptly!
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping From China to the UK
How can I ship goods from China to the United Kingdom?
There are 10 shipping options available for sending your parcel from China to the UK, as outlined earlier. You can select the method that best suits your business needs.
How can I ship goods from China to the UK?
Simply send us your message, and we will respond to your questions or inquiries within 24 hours. Contact us to learn more about our logistics and freight solutions.
How long does shipping from China to the UK take?
Shipping times from China to the UK can vary depending on the method chosen. Air shipping is the fastest, typically delivering within 3-5 days, but it is the most expensive option. Sea shipping, on the other hand, is slower, with packages generally taking 2-8 weeks to arrive, though it is significantly more affordable. A good approach for most businesses is to use a combination of both methods—air shipping for time-sensitive items and sea shipping for less urgent goods. Whatever shipping method you select, we ensure your package will arrive safely and on time.
Can you arrange shipments from Alibaba in China to the UK?
Yes, we can. We help arrange shipments from China to the UK through various methods, including door-to-door, express freight, air freight, ocean freight, and truck shipping. No matter what you purchase or from which type of company in China, as long as the goods are from mainland Chinese factories—whether via Alibaba or any other platform—we can provide the best shipping solution tailored to your needs.
How can I track my shipments from China to the United Kingdom?
Once your cargo is dispatched, you will receive a tracking number to monitor its status online. If you don’t have time to track your shipment, we can also send you regular shipping progress reports via email.
Is there any delay in shipments from China to the UK?
Delays are rare and typically occur only under unusual circumstances. We closely monitor your shipment to ensure that your products are delivered on time.
What customs duties and taxes will I need to pay when shipping from China to the UK?
Customs duties and taxes are typically included in the charges for door-to-door shipping, express freight, or ocean freight services. DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is a shipping option that covers both taxes and duties. If you prefer to handle the payment of duties and taxes yourself, you can choose DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) or door-to-door services without duties and taxes. Provide the name of your goods and the HS CODE, and we can help you check the applicable customs duties and taxes.
Can insurance be included in the shipping cost?
Yes, we can help you secure insurance for your high-value commercial goods. We can assist in purchasing insurance at a lower cost than if you were to buy it independently. Typically, the insurance cost is 4 per 10,000 of the commercial invoice value.
Conclusion
Shipping goods from China to the UK can be a complex process, involving multiple steps and potential challenges. Your chosen supplier should assist by organizing sea or air freight, coordinating with shipping companies that handle everything from packing and loading your goods onto the transport vessel or aircraft to delivering them to your address in the UK.
It’s crucial to stay informed about your shipment’s status, which you can do by using a tracking system provided by your supplier or freight forwarder.
Once your goods arrive in the UK, you’ll need to arrange for delivery from the port or airport terminal to the final destination, typically your home or office. If you’re looking to avoid delays, local courier services can often expedite this final stage.
With KFH Global Logistics, arranging shipments from China to the UK is simple. Just tell us your shipping requirements and provide the details of your Chinese supplier. We’ll coordinate directly with them to handle all aspects of the shipping process for you.