Customs can be a confusing process for those who have never shipped goods before. If you’re looking to send goods overseas or you’re importing goods into the UK, here are 10 things you need to know:

1. Customs clearance is complex

The customs clearance process involves more than simply passing goods across borders – the preparation and submission of documentation is required to facilitate exports and imports.

2. There’s a lot of documentation to consider

Common export and import documentation includes a Certificate of Origin, a sales invoice, a packing list, a shipping bill, insurance, an Airway Bill, a Bill of Lading and much more.

3. Your cargo will go through customs in every country around the world

Every country has its own customs clearance process, and the rules, laws and regulations will vary. Therefore, you will need to do your research before shipping your goods.

4. Customs will request payment of taxes and duties

If these haven’t been paid when the shipment arrives, customs will forward the package to an independent customs broker. This can get very expensive, so pay all charges before sending your shipment.

5. The time it takes varies from shipment to shipment

There’s no set time limit – the process is very much dependent on what goods are entering the country.

6. Customs charges in the UK are calculated using three variables

These are UK Duty, UK VAT and any additional costs like testing, storage and x-rays.

7. All goods are subject to Trading Standards

There are certain items that will attract more attention than others, such as lithium batteries, toys and electronics.

8. Certain items will need an import licence

Items which require a licence are often dangerous or require heavier regulation. Examples include drugs, fur, livestock and nuclear materials.

9. Properly loaded shipping containers can ease the process

Improper loading can lead to extensive searches of shipments, which can result in delays and more expenses.

10. It’s best left to a freight forwarding company

If the wrong person handles your customs brokerage, you could face a number of issues. A freight forwarder will be able to manage all your clearance requirements, including any documentation.

To find out more about Independent Freight’s air cargo and sea freight options, get in touch with a member of our team today.

Great news for customers who are regular exports to China or looking to export to China in the future!

Heathrow will now offer a new service to Chengdu the 12th Chinese route on the airports network. By identifying efficiencies and gaps in schedules, Heathrow has been able to accommodate new routes to China.

Expansion of Heathrow, the UK’s only hub airport and biggest port by value, will allow Britain the opportunity to build and maintain the vitally important trade connections to China the country needs, especially with a future outside the EU.

Research carried out by the CEBR has showed that there has been a remarkable rise in the value of Chinese exports via Heathrow and China is now the third most valuable export destination from the Airport.

Air China will use an A330-200 aircraft which can facilitate 3744 tonnes of cargo between China and the UK. Heathrow’s Chief Commercial Officer Ross Baker commented on the historic expansion: “Each plane flown from Heathrow to China not only carries passengers, but also the best of UK fashion, art and industry exports in its bellyhold. As we plan for a future outside of the EU, growing connections from Heathrow, the UK’s biggest port by value, to cities like Chengdu, is essential to keep our country an outward-looking trading nation.” (Source: TravelPRnews, 2019)

If you are interested in finding out more about this service which can be booked via our Team or any other Chinese destination then please do not hesitate to contact us at +44(0)2476 343037. We also offer import services from most major Chinese Airport back to the UK