Shipping to United Kingdom from the USA
The USA to UK route is one of the busiest in the world, with frequent sailings to Felixstowe, Southampton, London Gateway and Liverpool. Compare up to 5 free quotes for container shipping, air cargo and car shipping to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- Region
- Europe
- Main sea ports
- Felixstowe, Southampton, London Gateway, Liverpool
- Main airports
- London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham
- Sea transit
- Typically about 2 to 4 weeks port to port
- Shipments
- Household goods, cars, boxes and barrels, commercial freight
Compare quotes for United Kingdom
Container shipping to United Kingdom
Most household moves to United Kingdom go by sea container. You can book a container just for your goods (FCL) or share one with other customers (LCL).
| Option | Space (approx.) | Usually fits |
|---|---|---|
| Shared container (LCL) | Pay per cubic metre or foot | A few rooms, up to about 15 m³ (530 ft³) |
| 20ft container (FCL) | About 33 m³ (1,170 ft³) | 1 to 2 bedroom home |
| 40ft container (FCL) | About 67 m³ (2,390 ft³) | 3 to 4 bedroom home, or household goods plus a car |
Not sure how much you have? Use our moving size calculator.
Air cargo to United Kingdom
Air cargo (air freight) is the fastest way to ship to United Kingdom. It is ideal for clothes, documents, electronics and things you need as soon as you arrive. Prices are based on the "chargeable weight": the actual weight or the volume weight, whichever is higher, so air cargo is best for smaller, lighter shipments.
Air shipments to United Kingdom usually arrive at London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham.
Car shipping to United Kingdom
Cars can be shipped to the UK by RoRo or in a container. A car brought in under Transfer of Residence relief may be imported without duty and VAT if you meet the conditions. American cars may need modifications (such as lights) to pass the UK registration process.
- RoRo: the car is driven onto the ship. Often the cheapest option, but you can't pack belongings in the car.
- Container: more protection, and you can combine the car with household goods.
- To export a car from the USA you need the original title, and the documents must be given to U.S. Customs before the car is loaded.
Shipping boxes and barrels to United Kingdom
Only sending a few things? Shipping boxes, barrels or excess baggage to United Kingdom is much cheaper than a full move. Many companies collect from your home and deliver door to door.
Commercial freight to United Kingdom
Shipping goods for your business? Compare quotes for FCL and LCL freight, pallets and air freight to United Kingdom, including customs clearance.
How much does shipping to United Kingdom cost?
Every shipment is different, so prices vary a lot between companies. Your price depends on:
- The volume or weight of your goods
- Shared container, full container or air cargo
- Your pickup location in the USA and the destination city in United Kingdom
- Packing, insurance, storage and door delivery
- Destination charges such as port fees and customs clearance
- Season and current freight rates
Ask each company what is included, especially destination charges. Compare up to 5 free quotes to find the best price.
How long does shipping to United Kingdom take?
Sea freight from the USA to United Kingdom typically takes about 2 to 4 weeks port to port. Door-to-door delivery takes longer because of collection, customs clearance and final delivery. Air cargo usually arrives within a few days to two weeks.
Customs and documents for United Kingdom
- If you are moving your home to the UK you can usually apply for Transfer of Residence relief, so your used belongings arrive without import duty or VAT. Apply before your goods arrive.
- You normally need to have owned and used the items for some time before the move, and must keep them for a period after arrival.
- Keep a detailed packing list and your proof of moving (for example a visa or employment letter).
Rules change, so always confirm with your shipping company. See also our guide to prohibited items and how to pack.
Shipping companies to United Kingdom
We are adding verified shipping companies for United Kingdom. Send one request and up to 5 companies that serve your route will contact you with quotes.
Frequently asked questions about shipping to United Kingdom
How much does it cost to ship to United Kingdom from the USA?
The cost depends on how much you ship (volume or weight), the method (shared container, full container or air cargo), your pickup location in the USA, the destination city in United Kingdom, and extra services like packing, insurance and door delivery. Compare written quotes to know your real price: Movers World gets you up to 5 free quotes with one request.
How long does shipping to United Kingdom take?
Sea freight from the USA to United Kingdom typically takes about 2 to 4 weeks port to port. Door-to-door delivery takes longer because of collection, customs clearance and final delivery. Air cargo usually arrives within a few days to two weeks.
Can I ship a car to United Kingdom?
Cars can be shipped to the UK by RoRo or in a container. A car brought in under Transfer of Residence relief may be imported without duty and VAT if you meet the conditions. American cars may need modifications (such as lights) to pass the UK registration process.
What documents do I need to ship to United Kingdom?
Usually your passport, a detailed packing list and proof of your move such as a visa or residence permit. For a car you also need the title and bill of sale. Your shipping company will confirm the exact list for United Kingdom.
Is air cargo or sea freight better for shipping to United Kingdom?
Sea freight is much cheaper for furniture and large shipments, but slower. Air cargo is faster and best for small, urgent or valuable items. Many people combine both: a small air shipment for essentials and the rest by sea.
Shipping to other countries in Europe
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