International Shipping

If you want to learn about international shipping to the UK, you’ve come to the right place. Most airlines will include one checked bag at no extra cost on long-haul flights. However, if you’re looking to bring extra clothes or bulky items, you may consider shipping these items.

In the UK there are no duty or taxes applicable for personal items that you have owned for 12 months or more. It is however important that you do not ship items which may be subject to duty or taxes or items which are prohibited. This includes any goods which customs might deem to be for commercial purposes or any items listed below. Also, if you are planning on shipping “New” items in original boxes then take them out of the box before shipping.

If your goods are inspected and fall into any of these categories you may incur further costs for duty, taxes, storage and other fees charged by customs, indeed these items may also be confiscated and fines applied.

Banned and Restricted

Regardless of what country you are travelling from there are certain goods that you are not allowed to bring into the UK.

  • Drugs (such as heroine, morphine, cocaine)
  • Offensive weapons (such as flick knives, daggers, swordsticks, and some martial arts equipment)
  • Indecent and obscene material (such as books, magazines, films)

Require the relevant license or permit

  • Firearms, explosives and ammunition
  • Samurai Swords
  • Live animals
  • Endangered animals or plants
  • Certain radio transmitters
  • Rough diamonds

Food and Plants

You are not allowed to bring in any meat or dairy products from most countries. The majority of fruits, vegetables, seeds and bulbs are subject to weight or quantity restrictions. Some plants and plant products (including potatoes) and loose soil may not be brought into the UK unless you have obtained the relevant licence.

Freight Forwarders and Shipping Agents

We suggest using a freight forwarder to handle this process as it can become quite complex. These experts will arrange to collect and package your items from your home and then store, ship and deliver your goods to your new home. There knowledge of the UK customs laws will help you save time and money, and will help sort any paperwork required to avoid any hiccups at customs.

Latest Articles

uk family visa standing on a beach

Family Visa UK: Requirements, Costs and How to Apply [2026]

Bringing your loved ones together is one of the most important reasons people apply for a UK visa. The Family Visa UK is designed to let you live in Britain with your partner, children, or parents if they are already settled in the country. For couples, this includes the fiancé visa, spouse visa, and the […]

working holiday visa UK

Working Holiday Visa UK – Planning for 2026 [Guide]

Moving abroad is one of the most exciting adventures you can take, and for many people the United Kingdom is at the top of the list. If you’re between 18 and 30 (soon to be 35 for some countries), the Working Holiday Visa UK, officially known as the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, offers a fantastic […]

temporary shortage list

UK Temporary Shortage List [TSL] 2025: What You Need to Know

The UK has introduced a Temporary Shortage List (TSL) in 2025, designed to provide a faster and more flexible way of filling urgent job vacancies across the country. This new measure works alongside the existing Shortage Occupation List, but is specifically aimed at addressing short-term skills shortages in key sectors. For migrants, having a role […]

UK Immigration Rules Change

UK Immigration Rules Change – Skilled Worker Visa 2025 [Update]

The UK Immigration Rules Change effective from 22 July 2025 introduces some of the most significant updates in recent years. These changes affect Skilled Worker visa eligibility, salary thresholds, and shortage occupation roles, with further implications for employers, applicants, and dependants. Here’s a breakdown of the key updates. 🔑 Summary of July 2025 UK Immigration […]

Cambridge England UK

Best Cities to Work in UK [2025 Rankings]

In 2025, the UK’s employment landscape is evolving, and a new report from CoworkingCafe highlights the best cities to work in the UK, affordability, and business growth. The original study offers a detailed breakdown of Britain’s top-performing cities for job seekers, entrepreneurs, and professionals alike, examining where career potential aligns with sustainable living. This article […]

UK visa fees for Nigerians

UK Visa Fees for Nigerians Explained – Visa Application [2025]

If you’re a Nigerian planning to travel, work, study, or settle in the United Kingdom in 2025, one of your first big questions is likely: “How much is the UK visa from Nigeria?” You’re not alone. Thousands of Nigerians apply for UK visas every year, and staying updated on UK visa fees for Nigerians is […]

plane landing in the UK

Relocating to the UK for Work: A list of companies that can sponsor visas in UK [2025]

Relocating to the United Kingdom for work offers exciting professional opportunities and the chance to build a new life in a wealthy stable country. A crucial part of this journey involves finding employment with companies that sponsor work visas. This article will outline a list of companies that can sponsor visas in UK. Highlighting companies […]

Red buses parked in London

How to move to the UK without a job in 2025 [Guide]

How to move to the UK without a job in 2025: Work and Student Visas. If you’re dreaming of living in the UK but don’t have a job offer in hand, you’re not alone. Thousands of people each year look for ways to move to the UK without employer sponsorship. The good news? There are […]