A step-by-step guide to importing goods into the UK:
- Check if you need licenses or certificates to send goods into the UK
- Obtain an EORI number
- Register for VAT
- Decide who will make customs declarations and transport your goods
- Most businesses use a transporter or customs agent
- Request certification confirmation
- This information will be included in your import declaration and will determine the rate of duty you need to pay and whether you need an import license
- You will also need to include the value of the goods to determine how much VAT you need to pay
Certain products need to be labeled a specific way to enter the UK, such as food, seeds, and manufactured goods
- You may be able to pay less or no Customs Duty if the UK has a trade agreement with the country you're importing from
- You can also reduce the amount of duty you pay based on the type of goods you are importing
- When your package has to travel a long way, the chance of damage or loss is higher
- You may want to consider contents, inventory, and transit insurance
- If you've appointed someone to deal with UK customs for you, they'll make the declaration and get your products through the UK border
- If you're VAT registered, you can claim back any VAT you paid on the goods you imported using the VAT certificate C79
- You must keep commercial invoices, customs paperwork, and records, as well as import VAT certificates.
The UK is not only known for football, fish and chips, crumpets, and tea, but it also presents an exciting opportunity for international e-commerce retailers looking to expand into new markets.
With the proper preparation and research, you can take advantage of the UK's booming e-commerce market. This ebook has provided you with the information you need to get started, from understanding the local landscape to the logistics of shipping your products.
We've covered how to localize your e-commerce experience to make UK customers feel at home and how to maximize the benefits of selling to the UK. We've also explored the different taxes and regulations you need to be aware of and when, so that you can take your first steps towards selling into the UK.
With the right strategy and by following the steps outlined in this ebook, you can ensure a successful entry into the UK market.
Borderless360 offers an all-in-one solution for businesses looking to expand globally, including into the UK. With multiple warehouses strategically located in the UK, we provide quick and efficient delivery solutions for both local and global shipping.
Our services include postal, hybrid, express couriers, and end-to-end solutions like digital freight forwarding with air and sea transport to all our locations, allowing you to cut out middlemen and save costs.
We offer multiple courier options across the regions we support, so you can choose the right option for your business. Additionally, we provide the ability to track shipments, including during air and sea transportation, and manage shipping documents seamlessly.
