1) Check if the goods are permitted in the UK
Before you start importing from China to the UK, it’s essential to ensure that the goods you plan to import are permitted in the UK and any export markets you intend to supply. Import controls and product-specific requirements can apply depending on the goods, including prohibitions, restrictions, licences, certificates and quotas.
Refer to the UK guidance on prohibited and restricted imports for current information, and check whether any additional safety, labelling or certification requirements apply to your product before placing an order.
2) Find the correct commodity code for your goods
When importing goods from China to the UK, use commodity codes to classify the merchandise. Identifying the correct codes is vital for understanding duty rates, reliefs, applicable quotas and any restrictions that may apply. The Government website offers guidance on finding commodity codes for imports into the UK. Keep in mind that some goods can be challenging to classify, so it is worth checking the code carefully before the shipment is declared.
3) Calculate the landed cost of your goods
Landed cost can be defined as the total cost of purchasing goods and getting them from their country of origin to their final destination. In this case, the country of origin is China and the final destination is the UK.
Ideally, you will research and confirm the landed cost upfront. This can include freight, insurance, import duty, VAT, customs clearance, handling and final delivery. However, in some cases, you may not know the exact cost of your China import until it reaches the UK. If this is the case, make sure to estimate your landed cost as accurately as possible. It might even be prudent to build in a contingency allowance.
4) Check if you need an import licence
Determine whether you require an import licence to bring goods from China to the UK. Keep in mind that regulations may change, so staying informed about import conditions is crucial. Check the latest requirements before placing your order.
5) Don’t forget your EORI number
An Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number is essential for importing. Businesses importing goods into Great Britain will normally need an EORI number beginning with GB. Different requirements can apply to movements involving Northern Ireland. Make sure you have the appropriate EORI number before your shipment arrives to avoid customs delays.
6) Source your supplier in China
Finding a reliable Chinese supplier is a critical step in the importing process. Careful sourcing is recommended, including checking product quality, seeking references, and potentially visiting suppliers in Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Tianjin. Requesting samples before committing to a larger order can also help you assess quality. Understanding basic Mandarin and Chinese culture can help build strong business relationships.
7) Use a well-drafted contract
Preparing a well-structured contract is essential to reduce import risk. Seek professional contract advice and choose appropriate International Commercial Terms (Incoterms) to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth import operation. Incoterms set out how costs, responsibilities and risk are divided between buyer and seller, so both parties should be clear on the chosen term before the goods are shipped.
8) Place your order
Once all product details and terms of business are confirmed, proceed with placing your order. At this stage, expect to get an appropriate pro forma invoice for your goods, including Harmonised System (HS) information, descriptions, values, weights, packed dimensions and agreed buying terms.
Your purchase terms will include agreed Incoterms. Terms such as Free On Board (FOB), Ex Works (EXW) and Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) divide costs, responsibilities and risk differently, so the right choice depends on the shipment.
An oft-given piece of advice for importing from China to the UK is to specify Free On Board (FOB) terms (e.g. ‘FOB Tianjin’ or ‘FOB Shenzhen’) rather than Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) which leaves you responsible for all costs incurred after the goods are loaded in China. The difference in cost and administrative hassle between FOB and CIF can be considerable. If you are unsure how your chosen Incoterm affects your shipping arrangements, please contact us for advice.
9) Allow sufficient time for shipping
Container shipping from China to the UK remains a common choice for many commercial imports, particularly for larger shipments where keeping transport costs manageable is a priority. However, air freight and rail freight are also becoming increasingly popular alternatives, especially when businesses need shorter transit times or greater flexibility.
As outlined in our guide about China to UK shipping time, transit times vary according to the departure port, route, carrier schedules and customs or port conditions. Allow sufficient time for collection, export handling, transit, customs clearance and final UK delivery. For example, door-to-door shipping from China to Southampton or Felixstowe via ocean freight can span up to six weeks, contingent on the departure port. Therefore, it’s advisable to allocate a minimum of 8 weeks between placing an order and the anticipated arrival of your goods in the UK.
10) Arrange shipping from China to the UK
While you could handle shipping arrangements yourself, professional help from an experienced freight forwarding partner can simplify the process and ensure a smooth and cost-effective shipping experience.
Barrington Freight can help arrange sea, air or rail freight from China to the UK, with customs clearance support available through experienced partner agencies. Our team can advise on the most suitable freight type and route based on your shipment requirements, timescale and budget. Contact us today to discuss your shipment and the best way to move your goods from China to the UK.
