Importing from JAPAN TO THE UK

Japanese Imports: Efficient and Reliable Solutions for UK Businesses

As members of FIATA and BIFA, you can trust Barrington Freight to handle all your cargo shipping needs, whether by air or sea, from Japan to the UK. Not only are we experienced freight forwarders but we also deal with the technical aspects of the process that all British importers face including customs compliance.

Sea Freight and Air Freight to Import from Japan
Customs Clearance Support
Professional Experienced Team
Business-to-Business Deliveries
Large & Small Consignments Delivered

Get a free Japan import quote today

Get in Touch to Start Importing

Importing from Japan to the UK Made Easy

Japan is a leading source of high-quality goods, including advanced machinery, automotive parts and electronics, making it a crucial trading partner for the UK. At Barrington Freight, we specialise in importing from Japan, offering comprehensive logistics solutions to bring Japanese goods directly to the UK. Whether you need to import an engine from Japan or handle large-scale shipments, our team is here to manage every aspect of the process, from customs clearance to transportation.

Our operations team is ready to handle your commercial imports from Japan so your business can thrive with deepening trade relations with Japanese suppliers.

Request an online quotation or simply give us a call 01268 525 444 and learn how we can simplify your imports from Japan, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.

WHY IS IMPORTING FROM JAPAN GOOD FOR BRITISH FIRMS?

Your company should import from Japan for the following reasons:

Advanced Technology and High-Quality Products: Japan is known for producing cutting-edge technology and high-quality goods, especially in sectors like automotive spares, electronics and machinery. British firms can access innovative products that meet stringent quality standards, which can be resold in the UK or integrated into domestic manufacturing processes.
Strong Supply Chain and Reliable Partners: Japan has an efficient and reliable export infrastructure, ensuring timely deliveries and reduced risks of delays. This is crucial for British businesses looking for consistency in their supply chains.
Customisable and Niche Products: Many Japanese manufacturers offer the flexibility to customise products, allowing British businesses to import niche goods tailored to their specific market demands, from high-performance engines to specialist electronics components.

These advantages make importing from Japan a smart move for British businesses looking to expand their offerings or maintain a competitive edge in technology-driven markets. Get A Free Import Quote Online.

Our Freight Services When You Import from Japan to the UK

At Barrington Freight, we offer flexible, dependable import services for Japanese goods designed to meet the unique needs of your business.

Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping: Ideal for large consignments, our FCL sea freight service provides a dedicated container for your products, ensuring secure transportation from Japan to the UK. This option is perfect for bulk shipments, streamlining the import process and minimising handling risks.
Part Container Load (LCL) Shipping: For smaller consignments, our LCL service allows you to share container space with other goods, providing a cost-effective solution if you want to import an engine from Japan, for example. Lead times for LCL shipments vary depending on the port of origin but typically take several weeks, with transit times for sea freight from Japan typically ranging between 50-52 days.
Air Freight: For time-sensitive or high-value shipments, air freight to Japan typically takes anywhere from a few days up to 12 days, depending on the service selected and the specific route. All options include delivery to major UK airports, followed by onward transportation to your business premises.

These services provide flexibility, allowing British businesses to import from Japan efficiently.

Get a free Import Quote for Japan today

Do EU Regulations Affect UK Imports from Japan?

Importers must ensure compliance with the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which governs trade between the two nations. Accurate product classification using Harmonised System (HS) codes is crucial for determining applicable duties and businesses should consult customs agents to ensure that the correct documentation is prepared to avoid delays. Importers may need to consider EU regulations, too, if their components or finished goods will end up being exported into European markets.

Customer Reviews

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 223 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lauren 
 25 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Have been using Barrington for over a year now. Exceptional service from the team (Joshua and Lee), always super quick to respond, secure bookings and collect from us. Never worry about a shipment when working with them. Thank you!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Christina Hansen 
 23 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Barrington Freight handled our first import from China and made a complicated job feel simple. Simon Poole guided us through the customs paperwork, postponed VAT and commodity codes patiently, answering a great many questions from someone importing for the first time. Our delivery address is a narrow street with no forklift, and he arranged a smaller vehicle with a tail-lift so the crates could be offloaded by hand without difficulty. The shipment cleared ahead of schedule and, once we'd paid, delivery was arranged for the very next day with a time window confirmed in advance. Excellent communication throughout and genuinely helpful. Highly recommended.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sam McGowan 
 17 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic Service. Lee organised a last minute pickup from Sweden back to England. The shipment was under Carnet. Very good professional service at a competitive rate! I will be using them again.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Louise Ponsford 
 13 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service from start to finish. Simon at Barrington Freight handled our crate of mechanical machine parts from the UK to Canada with exceptional care, keeping us informed throughout. His Canadian agent also arranged customs clearance, making the entire process straightforward and stress-free. Highly recommended.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Proydohi 
 6 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would like to thank the entire Barrington Freight team for their professional work and assistance in organizing the shipment of my cargo to the UK. I will definitely use their services again. Highly recommended.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mike Yeo 
 23 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The team at Barrington Freight were brilliant, leading us through the minefield that is exports to the EU.

Nothing was too much trouble and we received immediate answers to all our many questions.

We will definitely use them again and recomend them to anyone.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Courtney Freeman 
 22 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a fantastic experience importing our goods from Florida and honestly couldn’t fault the service. The quote was quick and easy, booking was straightforward and everything was handled smoothly from start to finish.

As this was our first import we needed a bit of guidance along the way but Simon was brilliant. He took care of everything, kept us updated throughout and was always on hand to answer our questions. What seemed like a complicated process was made incredibly simple and stress free.

The customer service was excellent, communication was spot on and our shipment arrived without any issues. We wouldn’t hesitate to use them again and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable freight forwarder. Thanks again for making our first import such a positive experience!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Katie r Smith 
 18 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Simon looked after our air freight import from China and provided an excellent service throughout. The shipment arrived safely and quicker than expected, with clear communication at every stage. We were very pleased with the experience and will definitely use Simon and his team at Barrington Freight again in the future.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Phil Holloway 
 18 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We needed to get a shipment out to the USA quickly and Simon made the whole process far easier than we expected. Communication was straightforward, we were kept updated throughout, and everything arrived on time without any issues. It's refreshing to deal with someone who knows exactly what they're doing and gets things done. We'd happily use Simon again for future air freight shipments.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   James Roberts 
 15 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Matt really looked after us and made our shipment completely stress free, I will be using the services of Barrington Freight for all my overseas shipments from now on. Thanks Matt, great service
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   General Enquiries 
 23 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have had consistently excellent service from Barrington Freight. Our main contact, Joshua Armstrong, is always incredibly helpful and reliable. He goes above and beyond to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Communication is clear and prompt and any issues are handled quickly and efficiently. It's reassuring to know that everything is in safe hands from start to finish.

I would highly recommend Barrington Freight to anyone looking for dependable and professional logistics partner.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   George Dunster 
 10 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a time-critical air freight shipment coming in from China to the UK and Simon was a huge help in getting it over the line.

Right before arrival, an issue came up due to a mistake from the airline, which could have turned into a real headache. Simon picked it up straight away, dealt with it quickly and managed to sort everything without any extra costs on our side.

Really solid support throughout and easy to deal with, especially given the urgency. Another great job by Barrington Freight - we’ll definitely be using them again!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Euphoric Bedding 
 1 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good service during a turbulent global shipping period. Special thanks goes to Lee for his efficiency and proactive updates and for rescheduling a delivery in less than 24hrs when the haulage company didn’t read their own paperwork and sent a lorry without the requested tail lift. Highly recommended.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   The Greens 
 5 March 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great communication, competitive and efficient delivery
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Shannon Sharp 
 4 March 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We’ve worked with Barringtons for the past two years, and the service has been excellent throughout. Every shipment has been handled with great care and real personal attention.

A special thanks to Simon, who has been outstanding—always professional, responsive, and a pleasure to work with. Highly recommended!

HOW TO IMPORT FROM JAPAN

How to Import Japanese Goods, Import Duty From Japan to the UK

VAT, Customs Duty and Guidance When Arranging Imports from Japan

Japanese Import VAT
When importing from Japan to the UK, value-added tax (VAT) will be levied at the point of entry. UK businesses can reclaim VAT as input VAT if they are registered. VAT is known as “Shōhizei” (消費税) in Japan.

Japanese Import Duty
Classifying your goods correctly under Harmonised System (HS) codes is critical to calculating the applicable import duties, according to the UK Global Tariff. At Barrington Freight, we offer expert customs clearance services to help classify your goods properly, reducing the risk of delays or misclassification.

Step-by-Step Guide for Importing from Japan

When importing goods from Japan, follow these key steps:

Compliance Confirmation: Ensure all products comply with UK safety and regulatory standards before purchasing.
Apply for an EORI Number: An EORI number is required for importing from non-EU countries like Japan.
Classify Goods: Use the appropriate HS codes to calculate duties and taxes.
Book Commercial Transportation: Choose the most suitable freight option, whether air or sea, to fit your import requirements from Japan.
Complete Customs Documentation: Ensure all documents are prepared and accurate to ensure smooth customs clearance at UK borders.

By following these steps, UK businesses can streamline their imports from Japan efficiently and avoid any unnecessary delays.

LEADING IMPORTED GOODS FROM JAPAN

Among the most-imported commodities from Japan to the UK are:

Automotive Components: Japan is renowned for its automotive industry, exporting engines, spare parts and assemblies. British businesses import a variety of high-quality components used in the automotive repair and manufacturing sectors.
Machinery and Industrial Equipment: Precision machinery, including robotics, factory automation systems and engineering equipment, are frequently imported from Japan.
Electronics and Semiconductor Components: Japan exports a wide range of electronics, from consumer gadgets to critical electronic components.
Optical and Medical Instruments: Japan is a major supplier of high-end optical and medical equipment, from cameras and lenses to sophisticated medical diagnostic tools, which are imported by the UK’s healthcare and technology sectors.

These imports ensure that British companies can access the high-quality goods and technology that Japan is known for producing.

Choose Barrington Freight When Importing from Japan

At Barrington Freight, our UK-based operations team offers British businesses:

Expertise in Long-Distance Freight: With years of experience handling complex international shipments, we ensure that your imports from Japan are managed efficiently from departure to delivery, minimising delays and complications.
Tailored Shipping Solutions: We provide a wide range of import options, including both sea and air freight, ensuring that your consignment arrives promptly while offering cost-effective choices suited to your business’s needs.
Customs Clearance Support: Barrington Freight’s in-house customs experts help streamline the import process, ensuring that all VAT, duty and compliance matters are taken care of, avoiding costly mistakes.