Ocean Freight to the United Kingdom
Shipping to the United Kingdom by sea is a reliable and cost-effective choice for businesses moving large or recurring volumes of cargo into one of Europe's most established import markets. With its advanced port infrastructure, strategic position for global trade, and efficient inland logistics, the UK serves as a key entry point for distribution across Europe. iContainers enables you to compare carriers, optimize costs, and book trustworthy ocean freight services to the United Kingdom in just a few clicks.
Why Ship to the United Kingdom with iContainers?
The UK is a mature, high-volume trade market with world-class maritime facilities and strong connections to Europe, North America, and Asia. Choosing the right logistics partner ensures a smoother supply chain, predictable transit, and reduced administrative burden.
Reliable Door-to-Door & Port-to-Port Options
iContainers offers flexible logistics solutions depending on your needs:
- Door-to-door, door-to-port, and port-to-port services
- Coordinated pick-up and delivery through trusted UK-based partners
- Real-time shipment tracking and proactive communication
This flexibility allows businesses of every size to ship based on budget, timeline, and cargo requirements.
Competitive Freight Rates from Major Origins
With access to multiple carriers and updated sailing schedules, iContainers helps you secure competitive rates when shipping to the UK from the United States, China, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Europe.
- Compare carrier rates instantly
- See all charges clearly before booking
- Optimize for cost, transit time, or service level
Expertise in UK Trade Routes
The UK has unique supply-chain conditions-including customs, port capacities, and inland distribution systems.
iContainers supports with:
- Route and carrier planning
- Guidance on UK customs documentation
- Insights on seasonal peaks, port congestion, and compliance requirements
Ocean Freight Services to the United Kingdom
iContainers provides shipping options tailored to different cargo sizes and business models.
FCL Shipping to the United Kingdom
Full Container Load (FCL) is best when:
- You can fill most or all of a container
- You need maximum security and minimal cargo handling
- You want predictable transit and fewer delays
Available equipment includes 20', 40', 40' High Cube, and special equipment for oversized or temperature-controlled cargo.
LCL Shipping to the United Kingdom
Less than Container Load (LCL) is ideal for smaller shipments:
- Pay only for the space you use
- Great for low-volume, test shipments, or sporadic orders
- Consolidated containers keep logistics costs under control
Shipping Costs to the United Kingdom
What Influences Your Ocean Freight Cost?
Several factors affect the total price of shipping to the UK:
- Origin & distance
- Container type: FCL vs LCL, 20' vs 40', reefer, special equipment
- Cargo weight & volume
- Fuel and seasonal surcharges
- Port congestion and time of year
- Local charges: port fees, handling, customs, inland delivery
iContainers' platform shows how each variable impacts the final cost, making budgeting easier.
Container shipping rates
How much does it cost to ship a container to the United Kingdom?
Transit Times to the United Kingdom
Transit times depend greatly on origin, routing, and carrier. General ranges include:
Average Transit Times from the U.S
- East Coast → UK: 10-15 days
- Gulf Coast → UK: 14-20 days
- West Coast → UK (via transshipment): 25-35 days
Transit Times from Europe & Asia
- Northern Europe → UK: 2-7 days
- Mediterranean → UK: 7-15 days
- China & East Asia → UK: 28-40 days
Factors That Affect Delivery Speed
- Direct vs transshipment routing
- Port congestion (especially during peak seasons)
- Weather conditions in the North Atlantic
- Customs inspections and documentation accuracy
Main Ports in the United Kingdom
Port of Felixstowe
The UK's largest container port, handling a high percentage of national imports.
Known for advanced automation and frequent services from Asia and Europe.
Port of Southampton
A major deep-sea container hub with strong connections to Asia and the Middle East.
Ideal for high-volume FCL trade.
Port of London (London Gateway & Tilbury)
A modern, rapidly expanding container terminal with excellent inland rail/road access.
Port of Liverpool
Strategic for Atlantic and North American trade, offering strong inland connectivity to the north of England and Scotland.
Which Port Should You Choose?
Your port selection depends on:
- Proximity to final delivery location
- Origin and carrier options
- Cost & transit-time comparisons
- Inland distribution needs
iContainers can help you determine the optimal route and port.
How to Book Your Shipment to the United Kingdom
Required Documents
For ocean freight to the UK, you generally need:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of Lading / Sea Waybill
- Certificates of origin or compliance (if applicable)
- Any licenses depending on cargo type
Customs & Regulations Overview
To prevent delays:
- Provide accurate HS codes
- Declare goods with correct value and detailed descriptions
- Check if goods fall under special UK regulations or restrictions
iContainers' support and local partners help simplify UK customs procedures.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
- Enter your origin, destination, and cargo details on the platform
- Compare rates, transit times, and carriers
- Select your preferred service
- Upload documentation
- Coordinate pick-up/delivery
- Track your shipment through arrival and final delivery
FAQs About Shipping to the United Kingdom
The cost of shipping a container to the United Kingdom depends on your origin, container type (FCL or LCL), cargo weight and volume, and current market rates. The most accurate way to get a price is to request an instant quote on the iContainers platform, where you'll see all charges itemized before booking.
Transit times to the United Kingdom vary by origin and service. Shipments from nearby ports in the Americas can arrive within days, while shipments from Europe or Asia may take several weeks. When you request a quote with iContainers, estimated transit times are displayed alongside the rates so you can choose the option that best fits your schedule.
The best container type depends on your cargo's size, weight, and characteristics:
- 20' or 40' dry containers for most general cargo
- 40' High Cube for lighter, voluminous goods
- Reefer containers for temperature-controlled products
- Special equipment (open top, flat rack) for oversized items
If you're unsure which option is right for you, our specialists can review your cargo details and recommend the most suitable container type.
