Shipping from China to the UK

What does the customs agent need before pickup?

Send the parties named on the invoice, the product description, material, use, quantity and value. Confirm which business will act as importer, who will make the declaration and which EORI applies. GOV.UK distinguishes Great Britain and Northern Ireland, so include the actual delivery location.

How can I compare two UK offers?

Suppose one offer ends at Felixstowe and the other ends at a Birmingham depot. Ask the first provider to price release and delivery to the same Birmingham postcode. Ask both to identify brokerage, duty and import VAT separately, together with who settles each amount.

What if the warehouse only receives by appointment?

Send the booking contact, time window and purchase order references. Ask who requests the slot, when the receiver can first book it and what happens if clearance runs past it. Include unloading arrangements and the largest packed piece so the truck can be matched to the job.

GOV.UK guide to importing goods