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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
UK Visa Cost Increase for 2025 [Latest]
On April 9, 2025, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) implemented significant increases in UK visa cost and immigration fees, impacting individuals and businesses alike. By increasing fees, the government aims to cover the operational costs associated with processing applications and maintaining immigration services. UK Visa Cost 2025 Starting April 9, 2025, the UK Home Office […]
How to get Certificate of Sponsorship UK 2025 [CoS]
International recruitment is becoming increasingly necessary for UK businesses to help fill skills shortages. Hiring from overseas on certain work visas requires a Certificate of Sponsorship UK (CoS) from a licensed employer. In this article we will breakdown the main steps required to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship UK and which work visas require it […]
NHS Jobs for Nurses – Nursing Jobs in UK Vacancies [2025]
NHS jobs for nurses in the UK is on the increase with great opportunities for visa sponsorship. Registered nurses are currently on the Skilled Worker Occupations List on SOC code 2231 to 2237. Registered nurses are needed in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland with the National Health Service (NHS) employing from overseas to help […]
Immigration Salary List UK – Skilled Worker Visa [2025]
The Immigration Salary List UK (ISL) is a shortage occupations list that shows careers in demand across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Immigration Salary List UK is not to be confused with other lists such as the Skilled Worker Occupation List or Healthcare and Education Shortage Occupation List. Depending on your job role or Standard Occupational […]
UK Bank Holidays 2025 – [Full List]
A bank holiday is a public holiday in the United Kingdom during which most businesses, organisations and schools are closed. These holidays originated to provide a day off for bank employees but have since become a day of rest or celebration for the whole country. There will be at least 8 UK Bank Holidays 2025, […]