How do I ship a container from China to my warehouse?

Here's the complete door-to-door process for shipping a container from China to the UK:

Step 1: Decide shipping mode

• Calculate total CBM: if > 15 CBM, FCL (20GP) is likely cheaper than LCL
• Confirm with forwarder whether 20GP or 40GP is needed based on weight + volume

Step 2: Engage a freight forwarder

• Get quotes from 3 forwarders (China-based or UK-based with China offices work well)
• Specify: EXW or FOB from your supplier; door-to-door to your UK postcode

Step 3: Origin (China side)

• Supplier packs cargo and calls the forwarder's trucking to collect
• Forwarder handles: export customs (export declaration/B/E), SOLAS VGM (container weighing), loading at port
• Shipping line issues Draft B/L → you approve → Original B/L or Telex Release issued

Step 4: Ocean transit

• China to UK Felixstowe/Southampton: typically 25–35 days via direct or transshipment service
• Track your container at the shipping line's website with container number

Step 5: UK destination

• Engage UK customs broker: file Import Entry at HMRC
• Pay UK import duty (depends on HS code; 0–12% for most manufactured goods post-Brexit) + UK VAT (20%)
• Container released after customs clearance → trucker delivers to your warehouse
• Return empty container to designated depot within free time

Documents you'll handle:
Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, UK Import Entry, Certificate of Origin (if claiming UK Global Trade preferences)

Total transit time door to door: 30–45 days
Cost for 20GP (Shenzhen–Felixstowe): Typically $1,200–2,500 ocean freight + $400–800 UK clearance and delivery