Shipping goods from USA to UK
Shipping goods from USA to UK can be a complex process, but with the right information, you can find the most affordable and efficient shipping option for your needs. Whether you’re relocating, shipping household goods to UK, or shipping a car, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about international shipping to the United Kingdom. From ocean freight and air freight options to RORO shipping services for car and heavy machinery, we’ll explore the various methods, costs, required documentation, and expert tips to ensure your shipment arrives safely and efficiently. With insights into major UK ports, customs procedures, and strategies to reduce expenses, you’ll be well-equipped to ship your goods to UK.
Major ports for shipping to the UK from the US
The major shipping ports in the UK include the following:
- Port of Felixstowe (east coast of England),
- Port of Southampton (south of England),
- Port of Immingham (northeast of England),
- Belfast Harbour (Northern Ireland),
- Port of Grangemouth (Scotland).
- Port of London, Thames Port
The final destination of your shipment in the UK determines which port it will arrive at. Upon reaching the UK, your goods must clear customs before being transported to your new location via road or rail. At Ameritrans Freight, we optimize the cost of shipping a container from US to UK, ensuring efficient and cost-effective delivery. Our expertise in international shipping allows us to navigate the complexities of customs clearance and inland transportation, providing you with a seamless door-to-door shipping from USA to UK.
Container shipping costs from the US to UK
The cost of shipping goods from USA to UK depends on several factors. These factors include;
- Shipping method
- Type & size of the container
- Distance between origin and destination ports
- Fuel prices
- Shipping route
On average, shipping from US to UK will range between $200-$4000. To get the exact estimates, contact your shipping service provider. You can also request a quote here.
How much will it cost to ship goods from USA to the United Kingdom
Here is an estimate of shipping Goods From USA To UK costs;
| New York – Southampton / Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $379 |
| Chicago, Il – Southampton / Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $1,034 |
| Cincinnati, Oh – Southampton/Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $989 |
| Detroit – Southampton/ Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $881 |
| Columbus – Southampton | $782 |
| St Louis – Southampton/ Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $1,026 |
| New York – Grangemouth/ Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $1,234 |
| Norfolk – Grangemouth/ Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $1,089 |
| New York – Belfast/ Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $1,045 |
| Oakland – Southampton/Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $1,098 |
| Savannah – Southampton/Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $456 |
| Los Angeles- Southampton/Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $542 |
| Houston -Southampton/Grangemouth/ Belfast/ Felixstowe | $676 |
Factors affecting moving costs from USA to UK
The cost of shipping goods from USA to UK depends on several factors:
- Dimensions of the Shipment: Larger shipments cost more due to increased container space requirements.
- Air vs. Ocean Shipping: Ocean shipping is slower but cheaper, whereas air shipping is faster but more expensive.
- Weight of Cargo: Heavier shipments incur higher costs due to weight limitations and fuel consumption.
- Transit Time: Longer transit times generally reduce costs but require more planning.
Despite the wide variations in cost from household to household when shipping possessions to the UK from the USA, there are always ways to cut costs. You can guarantee that your belongings will arrive securely without spending a fortune by heeding the advice and selecting a shipping container that is appropriate for your needs.
When requesting an estimate, consider every aspect that affects shipping costs, and check prices from several providers before choosing one. An easy and economical transfer to the UK is more likely with advanced planning and thorough research!
Ocean Freight shipping to the UK from USA
Ocean freight shipping, provides the cheapest way to ship from the US to the UK. Depending with the size of your cargo, there are several options to choose from. These are FCL, LCL, and RoRo shipping. Here is a break down of each option;
FCL shipping
When you have a 20′ or 40′ long container that is fully loaded, this is referred to as an FCL. In other words, Full Container Load. This is a preferred method for shipping large volume of goods as its cheaper. Whether or not your container is full, the price for FCL is calculated as a flat cost.
Shipping goods from USA to UK via FCL ensures safety for your cargo as the container is sealed after loading. Also, you do not get to share your container with others. It’s also a quicker way of sending packages to the UK as compared to LCL shipping.
LCL shipping
Less than Container Load (LCL), is suitable for shipping small shipments that cannot fill a container. The goods are consolidated with that of other shippers, and transported in one container.
Please note that while shipping LCL, your cargo must be consolidated at the origin port and deconsolidated at the destination port. Because of this, LCL shipping takes a little longer than FCL.
RoRo shipping to the UK from US
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping is a popular and cost-effective method for transporting vehicles and heavy equipments from the US to the UK. This shipping method involves driving wheeled cargo into a roro vessel, therefore easing the loading and unloading process, saving time and resources. If you are looking to ship personal or commercial vehicles to the UK without the need to containerize, then this method is for you. RoRo vessels are equipped with secure decks to protect vehicles from environmental factors during transit.
With over 20 years of experience in the shipping industry, we offer the best RoRo shipping services, whether you need to move automobiles, RVs, boats, vans, buses, trucks, or large machinery to the UK. Our team of experts will guarantee that your shipment reaches your destination in the UK undamaged.
RORO shipping Rates From UK From US
| Baltimore. MD to Southampton | $870 |
| Long Beach, CA to Southampton | $1400 |
| Tacoma, WA to Southampton | $1405 |
| Long Beach to Felixstowe | $1350 |
| Charleston, SC to Southampton | $975 |
| Newark, NJ to Southampton | $940 |
| Jacksonville to Southampton | $800 |
RORO Shipping Schedule From USA To UK
Shipments typically take 40 to 50 days to reach their destination from the West Coast. Please be aware that the Estimated Transit Time begins when your automobile pulls up to the shipping terminal and does not account for the time it takes the trucker to pick up your car from your house. Depending on the departure port chosen, the voyage length ranges from 6 to 21 days.
Air Freight shipping from the US to the UK
For packages weighing between 150 kg and 500 kg, standard air freight is the least expensive choice. In some cases, dimensional weight rather than actual weight may be used to charge for very light shipments for their size.
Although quite expensive, Air freight is by far the fastest option .
Make sure you compare rates from different freight forwarders because they might vary greatly and frequently alter. Be careful to look into LCL (less than container load) ocean freight charges since they may be less expensive than air freight costs for larger shipments .
Cost of air freight transportation from the US to the UK per kg
The cost of air freight per kg from US to UK will depend on the weight and size of the item, shipping distance, and the delivery speed. For small packages, express freight is usually the cheapest, costing from as low as $5 per kg. For shipments between 150-500kg, standard air freight is recommended, with sea freight being suitable for larger volumes of cargo weighing over 500kg.
What is the estimated shipping time from the US to the UK?
Location, package size, and season all impact how quickly your shipment will arrive. There is no set amount of time for transit. Freight shipments may be delayed due to changes in the market, natural disasters, and other events.
Typically, shipping to the UK will take between 30-50 days. For air freight, average time taken is 8-10 days.
Shipping household goods From USA To UK
When shipping personal items from US to UK, you will require careful planning and understanding of various shipping options. You can choose between sea freight for larger shipments or air freight for faster delivery of smaller consignments. Properly packing your items is crucial to avoid damage during transit, with sturdy boxes and protective materials being key. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with UK customs regulations, as some household goods may be subject to restrictions or duties. Documentation such as an inventory list and proof of residency may be required for customs clearance.
Whether you’re moving furniture, personal belongings, or entire household contents, here are a few considerations;
Shipping option
Ocean freight remains the most economical option for shipping large volumes of household goods. You’ll typically have two container options; Full Container Load (FCL), or Less than Container Load (LCL). Your conainer choice will depend with the volume of goods you want to ship.
Air freight will offer the fastest shipping, although significantly more expensive. Consider shipping your goods from USA to UK via air, if its very urgent or time sensitive, or if its small shipments / essential items.
Door-to-door shipping services is suitable if your budget allows. It involves the shipping company doing the following;
- Packing your belongings
- Transportation from your current US residence
- Customs clearance
- Delivery to your new UK address
- Unpacking and setup assistance
Cost considerations for shipping household goods from US to UK
The cost of shipping household goods from USA to UK varies based on several factors:
- Total volume of goods
- Shipping method (ocean vs. air freight)
- Distance between origin and destination ports
- Current fuel prices
- Seasonal shipping demand
- Additional services like packing, insurance, and door-to-door delivery
Estimated shipping costs can range from $200 to $4,000, depending on these variables.
Important documentation and customs requirement
When shipping household goods to the UK, you’ll need to prepare:
- Commercial Invoice
- Detailed inventory of shipped items
- Proof of residence in the UK
- Customs declaration forms
- Original identification documents
Insurance
It is important to insure your goods when shipping internationally. This will save you incase of any damages or loss during transit. You can obtain your insurance through your freight forwarder or opt for a third-party provider.
Prohibited and restricted items
Be aware that certain items are restricted or prohibited when shipping to the UK, including:
- Perishable goods
- Hazardous materials
- Certain electronics
- Weapons and ammunition
- Some agricultural products
Moving Small Packages to the UK from USA
Freight transportation is unnecessary when importing small items like samples of new products. You pay more and need more time. You are better off reverting to:
Regular post mail
Regular post mail may be a cost-effective delivery alternative for shipping light and also small goods.
Before selecting your mode, examine each choice and compare it to courier costs. It is more likely that a courier will be less expensive the heavier the package. Even though postal service is inexpensive, there is a significant wait.
American Express Shipping To the UK
Whether DHL, UPS, Fedex or TNT, sending something overseas through courier is typically more dependable and efficient than sending it through the mail.
Express freight typically costs $5 per kilogram and is the least expensive shipping option for parcels or small goods weighing up to 150 kg. However, be careful since certain couriers may charge an exorbitant sum if you are not a registered customer.
Shipping Car from the USA to the UK
You will be well taken care of if you choose Ameritrans freight international as your automobile transportation company. Since we have been shipping vehicles of all kinds to the UK for more than 40 years, we are experts in this field. At first, you could feel overwhelmed or puzzled, but we’ll immediately set your mind at ease. Therefore, we created all of these responses to your inquiries—from pricing,pick up your vehicle and documents to departure and arrival ports.
To provide you with the most accurate quote, we will need to know the Year, Make, and Model of your automobile, the Pickup Zip Code or Departure Port, and the Destination Country
FAQS
1. Does it require insurance to export something from the US to UK
UK Insurance on your shipping charges is necessary if your things are damaged or incase of loss. You can accomplish this through your freight forwarder or a third- party insurance agent. The insurance cost is normally cheaper than the commercial invoice value or how much you paid for the items.
2. What paperwork is required if I want to export anything from the US to the UK?
An Order reference number is required in addition to customary shipping documentation such as the Commercial Invoice when transporting goods from the US to the UK. This number is required to clear customs for anyone shipping from outside the European Union to within the organization. Sea Freight to UK Customs clearance and auto transport companies
3. What recommendations reduce cost and transit time from the US to the UK?
Shipping Goods From USA To UK, car and belongings, Shipping Container US Cost to UK, Sea Freight to UK
- Purchase in advance. The fastest and least expensive method of shipping is via water. Making reservations in advance helps you save money and reduces stress in the event of delays.
- Ship during off-peak hours. Shipping costs and transit times rise when carriers are overloaded. Anytime possible, ship during low-demand times.
- Understand your HS numbers. Many shippers are shocked by how much customs fees can impact operating expenses. Do your study to create an efficient budget.
- Compared prices from several suppliers. Before choosing a supplier, compare quotes from several ones as they can differ.
- Recognize the contents of your quote. Is your estimate door-to-door or port-to-port? What kind of services does it offer? Be aware of your purchasing to prevent being slapped with unexpected costs.
- Sort out your paperwork. When swiftly passing through customs, having your paperwork in order might significantly impact you.
4. What Documents are Required for Shipping vehicles to the UK?
When shipping a car to the UK, you’ll need the Original Title and Valid Identification.
5. What are the advantages of RORO shipping?
- The shipping process is safe because RORO shipping is quick and requires little lifting. Just continue driving from where you started and get off at your destination. There is no costly trucking, and the cost of containers, ports, and customs processes are reasonable. RORO is the cheapest and safest method of shipping automobiles and breakbulk goods to the UK. An effective yet affordable service is essential in the international shipping industry. For businesses seeking to transfer big machinery or cars abroad, RORO shipping is the method of choice.
- Size is irrelevant while using RORO. We can RORO ship any wheeled or static goods to the UK, including cars, boats, heavy gear, and industrial vehicles.
- There are ports worldwide that offer RORO shipping services to the UK. That covers terminals on the US and Canadian East and West coasts.
Are you ready to start shipping any cargo from the USA to the UK?
Get an instant quote by clicking here!
Reach us on;
Email; anthony@ameritransfreight.com
Telephone; +1(800)-413-2452