Shipping to the UK from Canada
The UK is one of Canada’s most important trading partners and leading export markets. Jet Worldwide provides low-cost Canadian parcel shipping solutions for delivery to London, Manchester and all of the UK. Jet Worldwide provides the best economical shipping to the UK from Canada
Shipping from Canada to the UK with Jet Worldwide
With Jet Worldwide, you can find the best solution for shipping to the UK from Canada.
Benefit from our strong partnerships with global couriers, local carriers and total logistics expertise. With Jet Worldwide, we freely recommend the best option even if means recommending an alternative option.
How much is shipping to the UK from Canada?
The cost for shipping depends on your package size and weight. Up to 2 kg via Canada Post the cost is around $36 for surface and $74 for Air. Canada post is the best option for individuals shipping small packages and personal items.
The cost via courier to the UK for 5 kilograms is around $140. The cost will vary according to the discount and surcharges.
How Can I Ship Sea Freight to the UK from Canada
Sea freight works best for heavier shipments, usually more than around 500 kilograms. For individuals shipping packages, Canada Post surface offer the cheapest option to the UK. For heavier parcels and shipments up to around 100 kilograms, economy air is usually the lowest cost option.
How do I ship something from Canada to the UK?
The best way for individuals to ship is to visit Canada Post’s website or stop by their local post office. It Is important to confirm the goods you are sending are acceptable for import. Shippers can also contact FedEx, UPS or DHL or their partner carriers via the internet.
What is cheapest shipping to the UK from Canada?
The best economical option for individuals shipping small packages and personal items to the UK is via Canada Post surface options. For e-commerce orders, the cheapest option is to direct airfreight to the UK. For containers, ocean freight is the often the best option. Contact our team quickly for details.
There are a few ways you may be able to find a cheaper way to send packages to the UK:
- Compare rates: Compare rates from different shipping companies
- Consider weight and size (verify your chargeable weight)
- Use Canada Post surface shipping options
- Ship in bulk: If you are shipping multiple packages to the UK.
- Use a freight forwarder or carrier partner (such as Jet Worldwide.. of course!)
Get Your Instant Shipping Rate Canada to UK Now!
Can I ship to the UK from Canada?
Canadians can ship most items to the UK via Canada Post, commercial parcel couriers or via a freight forwarder. Getting a competitive cost depends as much as the way you ship versus the carrier. Note the shipper may have to file an export declaration.
Can I send via DPD from Canada to the UK?
DPD is a leading UK carrier. Access DPD from Canada via Jet Worldwide. Shipping from Canada to the UK for delivery via DPD is a great benefit. Contact our team to build direct shipping solutions for Canadian e-commerce to the UK.
Useful information: Shipping e-commerce orders to the UK.
Zone Jump by Shipping to the UK from Canada Direct!
Zone jumping refers to the practice of shipping goods direct. Take advantage of lower domestic shipping rates with direct access. Consolidate orders, get market leading rates,and guarantee no import charges to your British customers. Contact our team for details.
Are Canadian imports to the UK duty free ?
All shipments to the UK are subject to import tariffs and tax. Low value shipments and items that qualify as Canadian origin (via the CUKTCA free trade agreement) can import duty free. All shipments are subject to UK's value add tax (VAT).
Understanding the difference between shipping from Canada versus Canadian origin goods
Import fees for goods shipped to the UK from Canada
Import fees calculation is on the three main elements: The value of your shipment , item classification, and country of origin. Read More About UK Import Fees.
Destination UK: Our complete guide to the cheapest prices, necessary documents, restrictions, and import fees.
Jet Worldwide provides North American logistics support including Canadian domestic, American cross border, reverse logistics and support for procuring, receiving and forwarding online orders. Contact our logistics team for details.
A Complete Guide for Shipping to the UK from Canada
Carrier shipping options from Canada to the UK- Insuring your shipment to the UK
UK Customs Clearance/ Import to the UK for Canadian Shipments
- Review of Importing process to the UK
- Shipping terms to consider
- Sea Freight Versus Air Freight
- Canadian Export Declaration (CERS/B-13)
- Duty Free Status for low value parcels
- UK duty rates for Canadian shipments
- UK Canada Trade Continuity Act - Free Trade Agreement
- Certificate of Origin and its benefits
- Valuation for Goods to the UKHM Customs clearance processes and costs
- VAT collection for e-commerce orders to the UK
- Shipping Canadian online orders to the UK and the EU
UK Customs clearance for specific categories of goods
- Shipping documents to the UK
- Shipping gifts to the UK from Canada
- Shipping personal effects from Canada to the UK
- Shipping food to the UK
- Shipping product samples/ commercial samples to businesses in the UK
- Shipping Advertising material to the UK
- Shipping equipment subject to repair to the UK
- Shipping to trade shows in the UK and ATA Carnets
- EORI explanation and why it is important to the UK from Canada
- CE labeling for goods to the UK
- Shipping e-commerce orders to the UK from Canada direct
- Get best shipping quote to the UK
- Additional resources for shipping from Canada and shipping to Canada
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general information only.
Best Options for shipping to the UK from Canada
There are several shipping options available for sending goods from Canada to the UK.
Here are some common shipping options that you might consider:
- Shipping to the UK Canada Post: Generally the best option for personal shipments
- Shipping via Ocean: Best option for large bulk orders and containers
- Courier Options: Using FedEx, UPS, DHL directly or via one of their partners
- Air Freight: Best for shipments over 50 kg chargeable weight
- Fill in form at the end of this post to request support and rates
Ship Service to the United Kingdom via Canada Post
Canada Post is the ideal option for individuals forwarding personal goods to the UK. The cost of shipping to the UK be as low as around $30 for up to 4 pounds/ 2 kg via Canada post surface. It can take several months for delivery to the UK but, hey.. it's cheap! Canada post has an online cost calculator.
Home delivery to the UK for Canada Post is via Royal Mail
Canada Post shipping options to the United Kingdom Include:
- Small Packet Surface, Air and Track Packet
- Parcel Surface : Uncertain delivery time
- Xpresspost: delivery estimate is around 2 weeks
- Priority World Pak (service via FedEx)
The services and transit times are estimates only. You can confirm the services and transit times directly via Canada Post's website and local postal outlets.
Businesses seeking solutions for their e-commerce parcels to the UK can request a call back from our logistics team.
Shipping to the UK from Canada via FedEx and UPS
FedEx and UPS are North America's largest carriers. Along with DHL, they offer reliable express delivery from Canada to the UK. The Best Economical Shipping to the UK often means using one of these carriers directly or via one of their partners. Note the dimension of your shipment as it can affect the chargeable weight
FedEx and UPS shipping UK from Canada options include:
- Priority international air express delivery to the UK
- Economy international air economy delivery. The difference in transit versus express is a day or two.
You can access global carriers direct or via a parcel broker.
Fill in form below to get a price for shipping your cargo the UK.
Shipping to the UK via Purolator Canada
Purolator Courier is a division of Canada Post and major domestic carrier. They offer delivery to the UK via partner carriers. Their primary international agent is UPS.
Delivery between the UK and Canada via Jet Worldwide
Jet Worldwide offers options for shipping between the UK and Canada for parcels, pallets, and online orders. Our team has decades of experience and provides transparency and best in class logistics support.
- Best in class parcels, pallets, air, ocean, e-commerce shipping solutions
- UK - North American logistics consultations
- Direct shipping solutions for online orders to the UK
Fill in the form and click submit for rates and support from our team!
Additional resources for understanding international transport:
Benefit from Canada's Free Trade Agreements
Verify you are declaring the correct value
Ensuring your goods are properly insured
Understanding chargeable weight versus actual weight
Useful information for understanding UK import fees
Accounting for Value add tax to the UK
Shipping Ocean Freight Canada to the UK
Shipping LCL to the UK
When shipping one to several pallets, less than container load (LCL) ocean can be the best choice. This method involves sharing space in a container with other shippers. Via LCL, goods take longer to consolidate prior to export. Additional time for goods to be deconsolidated following import. Even though the transit can be faster, we recommend allowing 2 months. Better that the arrival of your goods is sooner than expected.
ShippIng FCL Canada to the UK
FCL, which stands for full container load. In this method, your goods completely occupy a container. Whether a 20 foot or 40 foot container. FCL shipping have faster door to door transit time than LCL. Also, less handling means lower likelihood of damage. If your shipment can most of the container, FCL is the best option.
Air versus Ocean Shipping to the UK from Canada
The base per kilogram rate for ocean shipping is often lower than air. But sea freight comprise of many surcharges. The minimum fees can make ocean less affordable for smaller cargo. Contact our team to calculate your costs via cargo.
In general, the lowest cost for small personal packages via Canada Post surface options. For heavier shipments, economy air freight is often the best choice. And less than container load is best with shipping pallet freight and large commercial orders. Useful information: Things to know about Ocean Shipping To and From Canada.
Tips for reducing sea freight costs to the UK.
- Reserve your shipment as early as possible. Booking in advance can save money.
- When possible, take advantage of off-peak shipping.
- Consolidate pallets and reduce packaging size
- Include the certificate of origin when available.
- Confirm the HS Codes to make sure you are not necessarily paying higher import charges
Download accompanying PDF
DPD Delivery to the UK from Canada via Jet Worldwide
Jet Worldwide offers direct import to the UK via airfreight direct from YUL, YYZ and YVR. DPD is a leading UK delivery services. Zone jump and ship direct to the UK from Canada and USA. Take advantage of our agreement with DPD.
Direct shipping from Canada to the UK enables Canadian retailers to scale their sales to the Britain. Contact our e-commerce logistics team for a consultation.
Do you need an Export Declaration to the UK?
A Canadian export declaration a requirement for shipments with a value over CA $2,000. Allow for this requirement to assure timely export. Goods otherwise subject to restrictions also require a declaration. Learn when a Canadian Export Declaration is necessary
Insuring your shipments to the UK
Carrier insurance is fairly straight forward but - also - often disappointing. The advantages of having product insurance directly with the carrier has the benefit in the extremely rare event of a missing shipment. Yet, carriers insurance or "declare value" programs are subject to frustrating and often inflexible.
Keep in mind that not all goods are insurable with the carriers and that the most common reason for claim denial is insufficient packaging. Individual parcels must in secure packaging - and the packaging itself with documentation. Incude photographic proof prior to shipping and upon receipt. Jet Worldwide provides reliable third party insurance options to free shippers from having to use a carriers' policy. Read More About Package Shipping Insurance.
A Complete review of the Import Process to the UK from Canada
The process for importing goods into the UK depends on several factors. These include the type of goods, the country origin, and value.
The process is in more detail in the following sections. Generally, the process for importing goods into the UK involves the following steps:
- If shipment is to a business, ensure the consignee / importer has a UK Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number.
- Determine the applicable import duties and taxes. This is possible via the UK Trade Tariff tool. The importer should know of the likely import customs duties and fees prior to shipping.
- Ensure the necessary licenses and permits are in place. This is particularly important for goods with restrictions, including food.
- Make sure the goods ship with the necessary documentation. This includes a commercial invoice, a bill of lading, and any other documents such as a certificate of origin or a phytosanitary certificate.
- Make sure the shipping terms are clear. Who is responsible for payment of import duty, taxes and fees? Read more: Import duty calculations.
The specific requirements for importing goods into the UK depend of several factors. Considerations include the HS classification, the country of origin, and value. Confirm import details and compliance with the consignee prior to shipping.
Useful information: UK Import fees and calculation
The default option for shipping internationally from Canada is Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU). Common carriers use the term Ex Works (EXW). The consignee is responsible for all import related costs. Shippers from Canada can choose to pay the import fees on behalf of the receiver. Delivery Duty Paid (DDP or DTP) is option that most carriers offer.
Payment of UK VAT from Canada
There is a disadvantage of shipper paying import fees. Often, the bulk of import fees are VAT. The importing business may otherwise be able to claim this back. But the shipper is not able to do so. Read More About International Shipping Terms
Note: Inco-terms is a trademark of the International Chamber of Commerce(ICC).
HM Revenue and the customs clearance
His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is the UK government agency responsible for collecting import duties and taxes on goods coming into the country. Import duties and taxes depends on the type and value of the goods you are importing. Their country of origin could grant duty free import.
Goods to the UK must include an invoice for customs or other supporting documents.
Sending parcels from Canada to the UK requires specific commodity descriptions and value. UK customs consider the transaction value to include Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF). When sending international shipments to the UK, ensure the commercial invoice includes a clear description of the item(s) and reason for export. Also, note that the value is a “CIF Value.”
Duty-free status for low-value parcels
Low value international shipments to the United Kingdom can take advantage of the “de-minimus limit.” Most goods with a value less £135 can clear duty free.
- Up to £135: Exempt from duty. VAT applies.
- Over £135 (around CAD 230): Both Duty and VAT apply
For imports with a value under £135, the term "import vat" is now "supply VAT."
Read More About VAT Prepayment for E-commerce Orders Importation
Customs Brokers in the UK
To handle customs clearance, it is best to to utilize brokerage services. The importer in the UK likely have their own UK brokerage provider.
Free Trade Between Canada and the UK: Trade Continuity Act/ TCA:
The Canada-U.K. TCA (CUKTCA) continues preferential access for goods that ship between the two countries.
Simply purchasing a good in Canada or the UK does not necessarily qualify as originating. They must be wholly from the country.
UK customs duty rates vary. Duty-free clearance applies to most electronics. An average rate of around 4% applies duty electronic accessories. Accessories with batteries average around 10%. Clothing and fashion accessories average around 12%.
CUKTCA Rules of Origin
In general, a product qualifies to originate from the UK or Canada if production is in the UK or Canada. Sufficient production or processing is necessary to meet the CUKTCA rules of origin.
The origin of agricultural goods conveint and simple. Manufacture of goods can be more complex. Sufficient transformation in Canada or the UK is necessary to qualify as a domestic product of that country.
- There is a line between simple assembly and transforming the product. A product must undergo a sufficient change in tariff classification. Product transformation in Canada or the UK qualifies the goods as originating.
- Also a consideration is the value of non origin content as a percentage of its total value.
The CUKTCA rules of origin are in the text of the agreement. The relevant section is the Protocol on Rules of Origin and Origin Procedures.Verify compliance prior to shipping.
Benefits of a certificate of origin to the UK
The country of origin a data point for HM customs to determine if duty free import is applicable. The origin declaration may be part of the invoice and accurately describe the goods. We recommend both a certification on the invoice as well as a separate certificate of origin.
READ MORE: CERTIFICATE OR ORIGIN BENEFITS
Valuation for Shipments to the UK
HM Revenue and Customs enforce the declaration of the actual value. Include supporting documents in case UK Customs disagree with your value. UK customs use the CIF Value for assessing duty.
The value for purposes of the low value threshold is the total of the consignment. The total of all the items is the "consignment value." Understanding Import Cost to the OKUK.
Package value versus individual orders
The rules regarding value of apply to the total package for import. It is the sum of the individual orders or items in the package.
Ensure the correct valuation for import to the UK
An EORI Number to the UK
When shipping freight to UK companies ask for their EORI number. Include this information on the Commercial Invoice. This number is necessary to clear customs.
This British business identification is a legacy of when the UK was part of the EU.
The EORI number exists out of two parts:
- The country code of the issuing Member State; following is
- A code or number that is unique in the Member State
It is important for Canadian shippers to ensure the receiver of their goods participate in the EORI program. When shipping from Canada to the UK, it is best to include the consignee's EORI number on the customs invoice and carrier paperwork.
CE Marking Requirements to the UK
The UK government requires CE (Conformity Européene) markings on certain electronic and medical equipment. Visit HMCustoms Gov.UK website for information on CE marking requirements.
Contact our logistics professionals to get connect our UK brokers to get more information.
Sending E-commerce Orders to the UK
E-commerce platforms - such as eBay - are responsible for collecting VAT directly from Canadian sellers. TheUK VAT arrangement applies tax for all online orders from Canada to the UK individuals**. Read about prepaid VAT requirement for shipping to the UK.
Zone Jumping to the UK
Consolidate and ship for low cost delivery to the UK. Benefit from efficient import and delivery via DPD UK. Contact our team for details.
VAT Number of the Importing Business in the UK
The rules that relate to the collection of VAT apply to the value of the consignment. The sum of individual orders is the consignment value.
Shipping from Canada to UK Businesses
The online marketplace must charge and account for VAT at the point of sale. If the consignment is a business to business sale the customer can provide their UK VAT registration number. The businesses UK VAT registration number must be on the invoice. You can verify the businesses UK VAT number using the following website: www.gov.uk/check-uk-vat-number.
A sample VAT statement for orders to UK businesses with registrations: "Customer to account for VAT to HMRC: UK business customer: _______"
E-commerce sellers from Canada must keep records to ensure the correct application of VAT. The UK's standard Value add Tax rate is 20% but less for some items. Goods with lower VAT includes books, food and children's clothing.
Understanding VAT Payment processing to the UK
Addition of VAT and the need for Lower Delivery Cost to the UK
Contact Jet’s team to build new shipping options to the UK and EU.
A fully tracking low cost shipping option from Canada is important to offset UK’s import costs.
UK Customs clearance for certain categories of goods
Shipping documents necessary when shipping to the UK
Shipping documents to the UK is simply a matter of declaring the goods as documents. Urgent shipments can ship via Canada Post express services or via a major commercial carrier.
Ship Passports to the UK
Passports are essential for international travel and can ship to the UK. Passports must include an invoice that clearly states the content. It is subject to inspection by HM customs and immigration.
Items that with prohibition and restrictions to the UK
Item with restrictions require special license and additional approvals. The list of restrictions are common and include such things as drugs, tobacco, alcohol, and firearms. Shipments with blades, including kitchen knives, have restrictions to the UK. Confirm compliance prior to shipping.
Shipping personal effects to the UK
When shipping personal effects to the UK, shippers should first apply for a Transfer of Residence tax relief. A "Unique Reference Number" /URN is necessary prior to shipping. Following the online submission, the shipper will get an email. Ultimate approval is usually within 2 weeks. Once the URN approval comes back, the shipper can then import their goods to the UK duty free. Contact our team for details.
UK Customs Transfer of Residence Relief
Shipping of excess baggage: Generally, it is simpler and easier to ship your personal effects as excess baggage when you travel. Carrier excess baggage fees for a couple of bags is most often less expensive than shipping separately without having to manage separate entry requirements.
Shipping a box or several boxes: Jet Worldwide provides solutions . An unique number is necessary prior to shipping.
Shipping a household/ container level: Best to contact a moving specialist to arrange for shipping full households.
Sending parcels to the UK containing personal gifts
Articles that ship as "gifts" can import free of any duty or VAT. The value must be under £40 (around CAD $70). It must be to an individual. The parcel may contain multiple gifts. Each item must have individual tags with the recipient's name.
Shipments to companies as gifts for an individual may not qualify as a gift.
To qualify for duty-free or tax-free status, the gift:
- Must have a clear description on the invoice. A common error is to describe the item only as a “gift”. Specifying exactly what the item is
- Under £40 (around CAD 70)
- Does not contain goods with restrictions or of a “non-commercial character.”
- Ship to a private individual (rather than a company)
- Items subject to excise tax, such as cigarettes, perfume, toilet water and alcohol are generally not acceptable.
Things to Consider when Shipping food to the UK from Canada
In general, we advise against shipping food to the UK. Even seemingly legitimate personal food items are subject to the restrictive controls.
For individuals shipping food to the UK, we recommend Canada Post options keeping in mind the general guidelines below:
- Less than 1 kg
- Food must be non-perishable with an expiration date of six months or longer
- Food must be in original manufacturer's packaging with a list of ingredients and expiration date.
- Individuals cannot send any products with animal products or potatoes
UK Department for Environmental Food and Rural Affairs
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency provides a checklist to help businesses export food internationally.
Sending product samples to the UK
Companies who send sample shipments should be aware of the criteria necessary to qualify for exemption from duty and VAT:
- Sample goods with mutilation
- The commercial invoice must clearly note that the item is a sample with mutilation and not for resale.
- An alternative to mutilation samples is for the item(s) to clearly indicate “sample” in indelible ink.
- Only single samples of each style are acceptable. If shoes, only one shoe can ship.
In the UK, a commercial sample is an item is only for demonstration purposes. A sample to encourage purchasing or orders. UK importers can benefit by avoiding tax and duty if they have a valid EORI number.
Sending "salesman samples" UK containing commercial samples
Companies who ship “Salesman’s Samples” should clearly note this on the customs invoice. The importation of samples may qualify for duty relief. They may require a Temporary Importation. Such special processes result in additional costs and transit time.
Shipping Advertising material to the UK
Advertising material - including "SWAG"' items with distribution free of charge to customers at trade shows- generally are subject to duty and VAT.
Advertising material can import duty-free with a clear notation on the invoice, under 1 kg total weight, and to a single receiver.
Items from Canada Return to the UK for Repair
When you ship goods back to the UK for repair, include shipping data proving the UK export
Items on the invoice for customs include:
- Shipping details proving export from the UK (see above)
- Include wording "Being Return for Repair"
- Mention the estimate of how long goods will remain in the UK for repair
- Include repair contract agreement (and - on the commercial invoice - reference that the fact that the agreement is with the shipment paperwork).
- Include product details including serial number, product name, model number and cost of repairs.
Parcel distribution to the UK and the EU via DPD
Jet Worldwide offers bulk HM Customs clearance, warehousing, pick/pack and low-cost ground delivery solutions to the UK and across Europe. Jet Worldwide has distribution solutions to the EU via the UK with in bond transfer and EU euro domestic distribution.
Ship your online orders direct to the UK from Canada and the USA via Jet:
- Low per last mile delivery cost to the UK
- Full tracking
- Integration bulk clearance with no cost to the consignee
Contact our team for information on UK and European shipping and last mile delivery solutions.
Jetship Rate Calculation
To estimate your shipping costs, consider all the methods to find the cheapest rates. Our flexibility is key. Fill in our shipping form to request our best rates to the UK. Fill in form below
Shipping Canadian e-commerce Orders to the UK and the EU
Jet Worldwide has best in class shipping solutions for Canada's leading e-commerce platforms and retailers. Build direct shipping from Canada to the UK with final mile delivery via DPD.
Direct Import E-Commerce to the UK - PDF
Shipping direct is the best way to scale your sales to the UK using your local Canadian warehousing and distribution. The challenge of having sufficient volume compares to the advantage of low CAPEX costs. And variable costs that get substantially lower as volumes scale. Often, the initial costs in the same range of what you are likely already paying. Once the UK processes are in place, you can then easily replicate the processes to expand to the entire EU!
Benefit from having a Canadian UK logistics partner
The UK is among Canada's leading trading partners. Benefit from Jet Worldwide's experience and transparency. We provide solutions that combine low cost access to major global carriers, UK clearance specialists, warehousing and last mile delivery via DPD. Get guidance and a comparison cost for cargo to the UK.
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