Shipping from China to UK

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Main Export Commodities (From China to United Kingdom)

Sea Shipping

FCL Shipping:

Advantage:

Cargo safety: FCL transportation is safer than bulk cargo transportation because the goods are packed in a sealed container. There is less risk of cargo becoming damp, damaged and lost.

Transportation efficiency: FCL transportation is suitable for large-scale cargo transportation and can improve transportation efficiency. Shipments to the same destination can be containerized, reducing transit and handling times.

Destination port charges: The destination port charges for FCL shipping are relatively low. Usually, the destination port charges for FCL are actually reimbursed based on the bill provided by the shipping company, which is transparent and predictable.

Shipping schedule and shipping company: Goods shipped in full container will be loaded into the same container and transported by the same shipping company. Therefore, the destination port charges are relatively consistent and directly related to container transportation.

Loading and unloading efficiency: FCL transportation usually has higher loading and unloading efficiency, because goods in the same container do not need to be sorted and mixed, and loading and unloading operations can be performed more quickly.

Tracking and Management: FCL shipping provides a better cargo tracking and management mechanism. The entire process of goods from packing to unloading can be tracked, which is beneficial to the controllability of logistics.

Packaging consistency: Since FCL transportation requires goods to use consistent packaging standards, it helps to simplify the customs clearance process and reduce the risk of goods being refused entry.

Confidentiality of cargo: The cargo in the container is usually relatively concealed, which helps to protect the commercial confidentiality of the cargo, especially suitable for the transportation of high-value cargo.

Disadvantages:

Higher Cost: Relative to bulk shipping, the cost of FCL shipping is usually higher. This mainly includes handling fees, packaging fees and the cost of renting the entire container.

Not suitable for small-scale shipments: For traders with smaller shipments, FCL shipping may be too expensive and uneconomical.

Wasted space: When the quantity of goods does not fully fill the entire container, it may result in wasted space, resulting in increased transportation costs per unit of goods.

LCL shipping:

Advantage:

Applicability: LCL is more suitable for small-scale traders and individual cargo owners, because container space can be shared and the transportation cost of a single cargo owner can be reduced.

Low shipping cost: The shipping cost of bulk shipping is relatively low because it does not involve the rental and maintenance costs of the entire container.

High adaptability: Bulk cargo transportation has strong adaptability and can adopt different transportation methods according to the nature of the goods, such as bulk cargo ships, bulk air transportation, etc.

Disadvantages:

Lower cargo security: Since cargo is usually placed directly in the hold during transportation, compared with container transportation, cargo safety is lower and is easily affected by weather and sea conditions.

Lower transportation efficiency: Bulk shipping involves the centralized loading and unloading of multiple cargoes, which can lead to lower transportation efficiency, especially longer processing times at transfer stations.

Difficulty in tracking: Compared with FCL transportation, it is relatively difficult to track and manage bulk cargo shipments, which may have an impact on the controllability of logistics.

Destination port charges: The destination port charges for bulk cargo LCL transportation are relatively high. This is because bulk cargo consolidation may involve multiple cargo owners, and each cargo owner needs to pay the destination port fee to the local destination port agent.

Sorting and distribution: LCL involves the sorting, distribution and management of goods from different cargo owners, which increases logistics operations and costs at the destination port.

Shipping time: LCL shipments usually require additional time for sorting and customs clearance at the destination port, so the overall shipping time may be relatively long.

Sea shipping process from China to UK

1. Goods preparation and packaging:

Requirements and Notes:
Packaging standards: The packaging of goods should comply with international transportation standards to ensure that they are not damaged during transportation.
Markings and Placards: Each package should be clearly marked and placarded, including cargo description, quantity, weight, sender and recipient information.

2. Shipping booking and required documents:

Book your space in advance:
Contact the shipping company in advance to ensure adequate space and obtain the best shipping arrangements.

3.Needed file:

1.Bill of Lading (B/L): The bill of lading is the proof of ownership of the goods. It is divided into original and copy and must be prepared before the goods are transported.
2.Packing List: A detailed list of the contents of each package, including quantity, weight, dimensions and description of the goods.
3.Invoice: includes information such as the value, quantity, and total value of the goods.
4.Customs Documentation: Prepare import and export declaration documents in accordance with Chinese and UK customs requirements.
5.Cargo loading: After strict inspection, the goods are loaded into containers by stevedores and then sealed.
6.Maritime transportation: Containers are carried by container ships, and the entire transportation process needs to be monitored through the shipping company's tracking system.

What is customs clearance process in the UK?

Customs clearance process and unloading process at the UK destination port:

Arrival in the UK:

The container ship arrives at the UK destination port and is assisted by port staff in unloading.

Customs clearance process:

Prepare and submit customs clearance documents in advance, including bills of lading, invoices, packing lists, etc.
Customs checks the goods to ensure compliance with UK import regulations.

Distribution and delivery:

Cargo is distributed at the port and dispatched according to the final destination.
Notify the consignee: Once the goods arrive at the destination, the consignee will be notified and can go to the port to pick up the goods or choose to have them delivered by a logistics company.

How long does it take to go from china to the UK by Sea?

Main shipping routes

1. Shanghai Port to Southampton Port, UK:

Route features and advantages:
Shipping time: Usually between 4 and 6 weeks, depending on shipping schedule and route selection.
Cost: Relatively economical because the Port of Southampton, as the main port in the UK, has an efficient logistics network.

2. Sea shipping route from Shenzhen to Felixstowe:

Route features and advantages:
Shipping time: Approximately 5 to 7 weeks, depending on shipping date and shipping route.
Cost: The Port of Felixstowe is one of the busiest container ports in the UK and shipping costs are relatively low.

3. Shipping route from Guangzhou to Birmingham Port:

Route features and advantages:
Shipping time: Approximately 6 to 8 weeks, including inland shipping time.
Cost: The cost of inland transportation at the Port of Birmingham is low, but the overall transportation cost is relatively high.

4. Shipping route from Shanghai to Liverpool Port:

Route features and advantages:
Shipping time: Usually between 5 and 7 weeks, depending on route and shipping schedule.
Cost: As one of the largest export ports in the UK, the Port of Liverpool has relatively low transportation costs.

Shipping time and cost from China to the UK are estimated on a case-by-case basis and are affected by routes, weather, cargo type, shipping schedule and other factors. For cargo traders, choosing a suitable route must comprehensively consider time, cost and service to meet the needs of cargo transportation to the greatest extent.

How much does FCL Sea shipping from china to UK cost?

Departure	Destination	20GP	40GP	40HQ
ShenZhen	Felixstowe	USD1600	USD2800	USD2850
ShenZhen	Southampton	USD1800	USD3300	USD3350
ShenZhen	Birmingham	USD2500	USD4000	USD4100
ShenZhen	Edinburgh	USD2600	USD4100	USD4150
ShenZhen	Northampton	USD2650	USD4150	USD4200
ShenZhen	Manchester	USD2700	USD4200	USD4250

Departure	Destination	20GP	40GP	40HQ
ShangHai	Felixstowe	USD1700	USD2900	USD2950
ShangHai	Southampton	USD1900	USD3200	USD3250
ShangHai	Birmingham	USD2700	USD4200	USD4250
ShangHai	Edinburgh	USD2800	USD4200	USD4250
ShangHai	Northampton	USD2800	USD4300	USD4350
ShangHai	Manchester	USD2800	USD4300	USD4400

Departure	Destination	20GP	40GP	40HQ
GuangZhou	Felixstowe	USD1600	USD3000	USD3100
GuangZhou	Southampton	USD2100	USD3400	USD3450
GuangZhou	Birmingham	USD2800	USD4400	USD4450
GuangZhou	Edinburgh	USD3000	USD4400	USD4450
GuangZhou	Northampton	USD2900	USD4200	USD4250
GuangZhou	Manchester	USD2900	USD4400	USD4450

The UK’s main maritime ports:

1. Southampton:

Location: Southampton is located in southern England and is one of the UK's largest car and container ports.

The Port of Southampton is the UK's main vehicle import and export port and an important gateway for international trade.
Providing container and bulk cargo services globally, with close trading links with major ports around the world.

2. Felixstowe (Port of Felixstowe):

Location: The Port of Felixstowe, located in eastern England, is the UK's busiest container port.

The Port of Felixstowe is one of Europe's largest container ports, handling large volumes of import and export cargo.
With advanced loading and unloading facilities and an efficient logistics network, it is an

important node in the global supply chain.

3. Birmingham:

Location: Birmingham is not a port directly facing the sea, but its inland ports are connected to the UK's transport network.

Birmingham has several inland ports, such as Birmingham Port, which provides inland transportation and container services.
As the UK's main inland logistics center, it connects the UK's road and rail networks to facilitate the distribution of goods.

4. Bradford：

Location: Bradford is located in West Yorkshire, England, and although not directly facing the sea, there are inland logistics connections.

Bradford is connected to other ports and logistics centers mainly by road and rail.
There are a number of inland logistics and distribution centers in the Bradford area that provide goods distribution services.

7. Northampton:

Location: Located in the east of England, Northampton is also a landlocked city but has excellent transport links.

Northampton is connected to other cities and ports by road and rail and is an important node for inland transport in the UK.
Provides cargo distribution, warehousing and transportation services to support supply chains in the Midlands.

5. Leeds：

Location: Leeds is located in West Yorkshire, England. It is also a landlocked city but has excellent transport links.

Leeds is connected to other cities and ports by road and rail and is an important node for inland transport in the UK.
Provide cargo distribution, warehousing and transportation services to support the efficient operation of the supply chain.

6. Manchester:

Location: Manchester is located in the northwest of England and although not directly a port city, it has an inland logistics network.

Manchester is connected to other cities and ports by road and rail and is an important center for inland logistics in the UK.
Provides cargo distribution, warehousing and transportation services to support trade activities in the Northwest Territories.

Air transport-Advantages of air freight:

1. Rapidity:

Fast shipping speed: Air freight is one of the fastest ways to transport goods internationally. Goods can be shipped from China to most UK destination airports in a short time, greatly shortening the delivery cycle.

The first choice for emergency cargo: Urgently needed cargo, such as medical supplies, fresh produce, emergency spare parts, etc., can reach the destination by air transportation in the shortest possible time.

3. Applicability:

Range coverage: The air transport network covers a wide range and can connect almost any two major cities in China to the UK, providing a wide range of services.

Flexibility: Air freight is suitable for a variety of cargo types, including low-volume, high-value, light and urgent cargo. This flexibility makes it the preferred shipping method across industries.

2. High value goods:

Safe and reliable: Air freight generally offers greater security as goods are more closely monitored as they travel from China to the UK, making it ideal for transporting high-value goods.

Reduce the risk of theft and loss: Air cargo is usually transported in a dedicated cabin, which reduces the possibility of loss, theft or damage to the cargo, making the transportation of high-value cargo safer and more reliable.

4. Efficient supply chain:

Fast delivery times: The promptness of air freight helps speed up the supply chain process and ensures timely delivery.

Avoid production line stagnation: For high-value production line equipment spare parts, etc., air transport can quickly obtain the required parts and avoid high costs caused by stagnation.

Introduction to air freight routes from China to the UK, as well as transportation

Shipping Time and Cost:

1. Direct flights:

Direct flights usually fly directly from international airports in major Chinese cities (such as Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport) to major UK airports (such as London Heathrow Airport).

Transport Time: Transport time is relatively short, usually between 12 and 15 hours, depending on the location of the specific departure and landing airports.

Cost: Relatively high, but for cargo with extremely high speed requirements, direct flights are preferred.

2. Transfer flights:

Transfer flights may transfer cargo at intermediate terminals before continuing to the UK.

Shipping time: Shipping time is relatively long, usually between 24 and 48 hours, depending on the efficiency of the transfer station and the destination of the goods.

Cost: Relatively low, as connecting flights are usually more economical than direct flights, but take longer to transport.

3. Main transfer stations:

Dubai International Airport:
Located midway between direct flights or transfer flights from China to the UK, it is an important air cargo hub.

Doha Hamad International Airport:
As an important airport in the Middle East, it is also a transit point for some flights, connecting China and the United Kingdom.

4. Cost factors:

Cost of direct flights: Since the transportation time of direct flights is shorter and the cost is relatively high, it is suitable for goods with high speed requirements.

Transshipment flight costs: Transshipment flights are relatively low-cost due to stopovers and transshipments, and are suitable for cargo that has relatively low speed requirements but is cost-sensitive.

Air freight process from China to UK

1.Air Waybill:

The air waybill is the contract of carriage and receipt for the goods and must be prepared, with one copy accompanying the goods and the other kept by the consignor.

2.commercial invoice:

Including information such as the value, quantity, and total value of the goods.

3.Packing List:

List the contents of each package in detail, including quantity, weight, dimensions and cargo description.

4. Flight booking and cargo security inspection:

Flight booking: Contact the airline to reserve the appropriate cabin and confirm transportation arrangements.

Cargo security inspection: Cargo may undergo security inspection to ensure compliance with international aviation safety standards.

5. Cargo departure and arrival at UK airports:

Cargo taking off:

The cargo is sent to the international airport in the departure city, such as Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
The goods are transported by flight and arrive at the UK destination airport, such as London Airport.

6. Customs clearance process and delivery of goods:

Customs clearance process:

Prepare and submit customs clearance documents in advance, including air bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, etc.
UK Customs checks the goods to ensure compliance with UK import regulations.

Goods delivery:

After the goods arrive at the destination airport, the owner or agent of the goods will go to the airport to pick up the goods.

You can also choose to have it delivered by a logistics company.

For example, the air transport process from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to London Airport:
Usually a direct flight is chosen, such as a direct flight from Shanghai to London. The cargo preparation and packaging are completed in Shanghai and then sent to Shanghai Pudong International Airport. After cargo security inspection at the airport, the cargo was loaded onto a direct flight to London.
Customs clearance and inspection are completed at London Airport, and the goods are picked up or delivered by the cargo owner or agent.

How much does air shipping from china to UK cost?

PO airline	KGS/DEST	+45KG	+100KG	+300KG	+500KG	+1000KG
PO airline	Currency：(CNY/KG)
UK	LRH	53.6	44.5	42.3	41.2	39.5
	MAN	54.3	46.5	40.3	40.3	38.2
	STN	56.8	48.5	41.3	40.3	38.5
	BHX	55.2	47.5	41.2	38.1	37.1
	BFS	53.5	46.3	42.2	38.5	37.3
	SOU	51.3	45.3	42.2	40.4	36.2

Major airports in the UK:

1. London Heathrow Airport:

Three-letter code: LHR

Airport features:

Heathrow Airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK with the largest number of international flights and one of the busiest international flight hubs in the world.
As London's main airport, Heathrow not only serves passenger flights but is also an important center for international cargo.
Throughput:

The airport has a huge annual cargo throughput and handles a large amount of international freight, including air express and cargo.

2. London Gatwick Airport:

Three-letter code: LGW
Airport features:

Gatwick Airport is one of the major airports in the London area, with an extensive flight network serving domestic and international flights.
The airport has a dedicated cargo area to handle all types of cargo.
Throughput:

Although primarily focused on passenger flights, Gatwick also handles large volumes of cargo, providing freight services to London and the surrounding areas.

3. Manchester Airport:

Three-letter code: MAN

Airport features:

Manchester Airport is the main airport in the north of England, offering a wide range of international and domestic flights.
The airport has advanced cargo facilities to provide efficient handling and transshipment services for cargo.
Throughput:

Manchester Airport has a large cargo throughput, servicing all types of cargo, including air freight and cargo flights.

4. London Stansted Airport:

Three-letter code: STN

Airport features:

Stansted Airport is a major airport in London, serving mainly low-cost airlines and charter flights.
The airport has a dedicated cargo area to provide handling services for all types of cargo.
Throughput:

Although mainly passenger flights, Stansted Airport also handles a considerable amount of cargo, connecting London and its surrounding areas.

5. Birmingham Airport:

Three-letter code: BHX

Airport features:

Birmingham Airport is the main airport in central England, serving international and domestic flights.
The airport has a dedicated cargo area to handle all types of cargo.
Throughput:

Birmingham Airport has a large cargo throughput and provides a convenient channel for cargo transportation in the central region of the UK.

6. Edinburgh Airport:

Three-letter code: EDI
Airport features:
Edinburgh Airport is Scotland's main airport, offering a wide range of international and domestic flights.
The airport has a cargo service that handles all types of cargo.
Throughput:

Edinburgh Airport has a large cargo throughput and connects Scotland with international cargo.

7. Glasgow Airport:

Three-letter code: GLA

Airport features:

Glasgow Airport is the main airport in Scotland and provides a wide range of flight services.
The airport has cargo services to support the transportation needs of cargo.
Throughput:

Glasgow Airport has a large cargo throughput, connecting Scotland with international freight.

8. Bristol Airport:

Three-letter code: BRS

Airport features:

Bristol Airport is the main airport in the South West of England, offering a diverse range of flight services.
The airport has a cargo service that handles all types of cargo.
Throughput:

Bristol Airport has a large cargo throughput, connecting the south west of the UK with international freight.

9. Liverpool John Lennon Airport:

Three-letter code: LPL

Airport features:

Liverpool Airport is the main airport in the North West of England, serving domestic and international flights.
The airport has a cargo service that handles all types of cargo.
Throughput:

Liverpool Airport has a large cargo throughput and connects the North West region of the UK with international freight.

10. Newcastle Airport:

Three-letter code: NCL

Airport features:
Newcastle Airport is the main airport in the North East of England, serving international and domestic flights.

How long does it take to go from China to the UK by air?

Main routes for air freight:

3. From Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) to East Midlands Airport (EMA):

Range: Direct flights
Timeliness: Usually within 20 to 28 hours, depending on flight frequency and transportation conditions.
Airlines: Several international airlines provide direct services from Shanghai to the East Midlands.
Features and advantages: Direct flights are short-lived and suitable for cargo with higher speed requirements. East Midlands Airport is the main cargo airport in central England, providing convenient inland logistics connections.

4.From Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) to London Heathrow Airport (LHR):

Range: Direct flights
Timeliness: Typically within 18 to 26 hours, depending on flight frequency and transportation conditions.
Airlines: Multiple international airlines offer direct services from Beijing to London Heathrow.
Features and Advantages: Direct flights are ideal for time-sensitive cargo. London Heathrow Airport is a major international hub with extensive customs facilities and seamless logistics services.

1.From Shenzhen Baoan International Airport (SZX) to Southampton Airport (SOU):

Range: Direct flights
Timeliness: Usually within 18 to 24 hours, depending on flight frequency and transportation conditions.
Airlines: Several international airlines offer direct services from Shenzhen to Southampton.
Features and advantages: Direct flights are short-lived and suitable for cargo with high speed requirements. Southampton Airport, as the main cargo airport in southern England, provides efficient customs clearance and logistics services.

5.From Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) to Birmingham Airport (BHX):

Range: Direct flights
Timeliness: Usually within 20 to 28 hours, depending on flight frequency and transportation conditions.
Airlines: Various international carriers operate direct services from Chengdu to Birmingham.
Features and Advantages: Direct flights cater to cargo with higher speed requirements. Birmingham Airport is strategically located in central England, providing efficient customs clearance and distribution services.

2. From Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) to Felixstowe Airport (FXT):

Range: Direct flights
Timeliness: Usually within 18 to 24 hours, depending on flight frequency and transportation conditions.
Airlines: Several international airlines provide direct services from Guangzhou to Felixstowe.
Features and Advantages: Direct flights are short-lived and suitable for cargo with higher speed requirements. Felixstowe Airport is one of the busiest container ports in the UK, connecting the eastern part of the UK.

6.From Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) to Manchester Airport (MAN):

7.From Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (WUH) to Stansted Airport (STN):

Range: Direct flights
Timeliness: Usually within 22 to 30 hours, depending on flight frequency and transportation conditions.
Airlines: Various international carriers operate direct services from Wuhan to Stansted.
Features and Advantages: Direct flights are suitable for cargo with higher speed requirements. Stansted Airport, located near London, is a significant cargo hub with efficient customs processing.

8.From Shenyang Taoxian International Airport (SHE) to Bristol Airport (BRS):

Range: Direct flights
Timeliness: Typically within 24 to 32 hours, subject to flight frequency and transportation conditions.
Airlines: Multiple international airlines provide direct services from Shenyang to Bristol.
Features and Advantages: Direct flights are suitable for time-sensitive cargo. Bristol Airport, in southwestern England, offers streamlined logistics services and customs clearance for air freight.