International shipping can be quite stressful, especially when the assets being shipped are fragile, oversized, valuable, need extensive attention, or are under strict time constraints. When shipping to Europe, for both personal reasons or business-related, it’s important to work with a trusted international shipping company that has a global network.
This post provides information regarding:
- International shipping tips
- The cost of international shipping
- How long it takes for an international shipment to arrive
- How to determine the best global shipping company to use
- Shipping from Austin to the United Kingdom
- And more
If an international shipment is on your horizon and you’re unsure how to proceed, we answer your questions below, so let’s get to it.
Help Make Your International Shipment Seamless
Whether you’re shipping one item or several, your international shipment needs a precise level of care and service. There are many things you can do to help make the process as simple and streamlined as possible.
8 Tips for a successful global shipment:
- Determine the best mode of transportation for your shipment
- Package and contain your items properly, using high-quality materials
- Account for heightened shipping and delivery times
- Be aware of customs fees and shipping tariffs. Since Brexit, VAT and duties often apply for goods shipped to the UK. Accurate classification is essential.
- Partner with an experienced international shipping company.
- Plan ahead, especially with time-sensitive shipping projects
- Ensure your assets aren’t restricted for entry into the destination country
- Get cargo insurance
These tips can help avoid miscommunication and frustration, giving you peace of mind throughout the shipping process.
What to Know About European Customs
No matter the size of your shipment or where it’s going, if it’s traveling into another country, it must pass through customs.
To clear customs, you will need to hire a customs broker to provide the correct documentation, pricing details, and clearance. This paperwork typically includes two forms—one for the country of origin and one for the destination country. Both must be completed accurately to prevent delays or issues.
For shipments into the United Kingdom, it’s important to note that:
- The UK now has its own customs process separate from the EU.
- Importers often need an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number to receive goods.
- Import VAT and duties may apply, and shipments can be delayed if VAT is not pre-paid or if paperwork is incomplete.
At customs, your shipment will be carefully reviewed. If you’ve inadvertently included a restricted item or provided incomplete documentation, your cargo may be delayed, held, or in some cases destroyed. Most shippers cannot afford that risk, so it’s critical to work with an experienced international shipping partner that understands these rules and regulations.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship Internationally?
Shipping internationally runs the gamut when it comes to costs. Different carriers charge different rates, and the final cost will depend on numerous factors. Fuel surcharges and carrier capacity constraints introduced during COVID can still affect pricing. Costs may also fluctuate based on tariffs or post-Brexit trade rules. Contacting your shipping carrier for a quote will be beneficial, especially if you have a budget to adhere to.
Factors that will help you budget for your international shipment include:
- The size and weight of the shipment
- Where the shipment is going
- How the shipment will get there
- Whether you need custom crating and packaging
- The mode of transportation
- If you want specialized services, such as onsite crating or pickup & delivery
It’s recommended that you speak to numerous professional Austin international shipping companies prior to choosing how to go about your shipment, this will give you the insight to make an informed decision that works best for your shipping needs.
How Long Does it Take for an International Shipment to Arrive?
There are many variables that go into determining how long it will take for your shipment to arrive safely in Europe and around the world. Global supply chains continue to face occasional delays due to port congestion, customs backlogs, or increased inspection times for UK-bound cargo post-Brexit.
Things to consider include:
- The mode of transportation: shipping by air or ocean shipping
- The final destination location
- If the item needs extra attention, such as white-glove delivery service
- Whether you need rushed service
- Canada and Mexico require ground transportation
- Shipments to Hawaii and go either ocean or air and you don’t need a customs broker
- Shipments to Alaska can go by air or ferry and like Hawaii, no customs broker is needed to Alaska either.
- Always plan extra time for shipments around holidays or regulatory transitions.
Speaking with a shipping specialist will help you figure out the length of time your shipment will take. It’s best to contact your carrier as soon as possible to ensure your assets can be shipped and delivered within the time frame needed.
How Do I Know What Shipping Company to Use?
You do have options regarding how to ship internationally. Craters & Freighters, UPS, and FedEx can all ship almost anywhere in the world. Again, speaking with each company will best tell you which will best meet your needs. Look for carriers with strong customs clearance teams familiar with Brexit regulations, as they can often pre-clear goods electronically.
If you regularly ship internationally for business and need packaging, logistics support, on-time deliveries, budget-friendly resources, and specific services, Craters & Freighters has numerous solutions to help you manage these shipments, including:
- ISPM-15 certified wood crates
- Reusable wood crates for regular shipments
- Tailored packaging options
- A national and global network
- And much more
If you’re wondering how to go about choosing the optimal shipping outfit to work with, here are 8 questions to ask as you interview carriers:
- Are you fully licensed and insured?
- What are my transportation options?
- Do you have cargo insurance?
- Can I work with your company the whole time, or do I have several points of contact?
- What is the time frame for my shipment to arrive?
- What extra services do you offer that will help with my unique project?
- What is the final cost of my shipment? Will my quote change? If so, how long until it does? What fees are involved?
- Do you handle all of the logistics?
Shipping From Austin to the United Kingdom
When shipping from Austin to the UK, there are a couple of questions and concerns people have.
Has Brexit Affected International Shipments?
Shipping items from Austin to the United Kingdom (UK)—which consists of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland—has seen some changes since the UK exited the European Union (EU) through Brexit. While the overall customs procedures for U.S. shipments remain similar, there are additional considerations:
- Import VAT and duties may apply depending on the type and value of goods.
- UK importers often need an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number to clear customs.
- Accurate commercial invoices and HS codes are critical to avoid delays.
With proper documentation and by working with an experienced carrier, your assets should still move smoothly to their UK destination.
Do I Need to Know About Royal Mail?
When shipping to the UK from Austin, the Royal Mail collects your international packages if delivered to one of their facilities. However, many US carriers have their own global network and are able to deliver your assets without the need for Royal Mail. Since Brexit, many U.S. carriers bypass Royal Mail for efficiency, however if Royal Mail is used, customs/VAT will still apply.
Craters & Freighters Austin for International Shipping
We’d love the opportunity to answer any other questions or concerns you have about your global shipment. Our team works with several individuals, businesses, and organizations on their shipments and is confident that we have the services, knowledge, and experience to make your shipment a success.
Contact our international shipping professionals, or get your free quote today!