How to Import Cosmetics

Choosing the Right Shipping Method

Selecting the appropriate shipping method is critical when importing cosmetics, as it affects both cost and delivery time. For larger, non-urgent shipments, sea freight is often the most economical choice. It allows for bulk shipping at a lower cost, though transit times may be longer. Onward travel once the goods are passed by HMRC and allowed into the UK can be arranged by us for any such shipment in all corners of the country.

If time is a priority, then air freight may be the better option. Although more costly, it offers faster delivery and is ideal for smaller or high-value products which include some luxury makeup brands and certain perfumes, of course. Air freight still requires goods to be passed by customs officials after being unloaded by ground crews and you still need to consider onward transit into the UK.

For imports from countries within Europe, road transport is a practical choice. It provides flexibility for smaller batches and can be coordinated with local distributors. Here at Barrington Freight, for example, we offer groupage shipments for non-urgent orders which are highly economical and cover all EU countries (as well as non-EU ones). We also provide full-load shipments for imported makeup deliveries, perfect when you have a large order that requires a dedicated lorry. Alternatively, ask us about express services from cities like Paris, Milan or Warsaw where many cosmetic products are produced nowadays. We can get your imported makeup into the UK fast thanks to highly reliable van services that are ideal for a pallet or two.

Regardless of the method chosen, partnering with a reliable shipping provider ensures smooth transit and handling of the imported goods.

Top Countries to Import Cosmetics From

When importing cosmetics, the country of origin often determines the type and quality of products you receive. For instance, South Korea is renowned for its cutting-edge skincare, with K-beauty products focusing on innovative ingredients like snail mucin and fermented extracts. In contrast, France is known for high-end luxury skincare and makeup, often featuring premium ingredients and elegant packaging. French products are associated with sophistication and long-established beauty traditions, especially in skincare and fragrances.

Meanwhile, the USA leads in bold, trendsetting makeup, often pushing the boundaries of colour palettes and formulations. American brands are pioneers in diversity, offering a wide range of shades to cater to various skin tones. The innovation from the USA extends to makeup formulations, where long-wear and cruelty-free options are heavily emphasised.

For British importers, suppliers in these regions vary significantly. Korean suppliers tend to offer more competitive pricing but require clear communication around product specifications and regulatory compliance. French suppliers often deal in premium products, with higher minimum order quantities, worth considering if you are a sole trader or work for an SME. Typically, American suppliers provide flexible options, particularly for smaller businesses looking to introduce the latest trends without high upfront investment. 

If you import makeup, then China is worth considering. That said, you must verify the goods you are considering importing are not counterfeit or that the manufacturer has made unsubstantiated claims about them. If you want to import cosmetics from Europe, Italian suppliers, especially in the north of the country, and those in Germany, are often associated with competitive pricing and skincare-tested products. Choosing the right supplier depends on the type of products you wish to import, with each country offering its own advantages.

Documentation Needed to Import Makeup

Learning how to import cosmetics into the UK necessarily means understanding the required documentation and legal obligations placed on importers. Firstly, British businesses must have an import licence or permit. You can’t import cosmetics for resale by claiming they’re for personal use.

Customs duties and VAT also need to be accounted for whenever you import makeup. It’s crucial to ensure accurate paperwork is filed to avoid delays and additional fees. Any mislabelling or incorrect classification can lead to penalties and held shipments. Again, this is an area in which we have expertise, so ask us if there are any customs regulations of which you are unsure.

For cosmetic products, compliance with UK REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) is also mandatory. These are in place to ensure that substances used are safe for both consumers and the environment. Suppliers from different countries may provide assistance with this paperwork, but it remains the responsibility of the importer to ensure all regulations are met when they import cosmetics. Proper documentation streamlines the process, making it easier to bring the sort of high-quality products into the UK market that British consumers will love.

Speak to our operations team about the next makeup shipment you want to import and how we can help.