Import from the USA to the UK

In 2023, the total UK imports from the US amounted to £122.0 billion.

In the same year, the US was revealed as the UK’s largest trading partner. Importing goods into the UK from the US has clear advantages for businesses, primarily due to the diversity of goods available and a large demand for US products.

Why import from the USA?

High demand

The USA is globally recognised for its diverse goods, many of which hold significant appeal in the UK market. UK consumers have a strong appetite for American electronics, fashion, and automobiles, all of which are esteemed for their quality.

The food and beverage sector also sees high demand, especially for American craft beers, confectionery, and organic foods. In 2024 alone, there was a £0.2 billion increase in US to UK food imports.

Wide range of goods

The US offers an extensive range of products that often are not available in the UK. Notably pharmaceuticals and aircraft. The top five goods imported from the USA to the UK last year were:

  1. Gas (£10.3 billion)
  2. Crude oil (£9.2 billion)
  3. Mechanical power generators (intermediate) (£5.4 billion)
  4. edicinal & pharmaceutical products (£3.9 billion)
  5. Aircraft (£3.8 billion)

Our Services

Due to higher wages, production costs for US goods are typically more expensive. Businesses looking to import from the USA to the UK could save money by using Freight Brokers’ cost comparison service.

With our quick, convenient search, Freight Broker can help you find the best shipping rates. Streamline the import process and get your goods for less with Freight Broker.

How to import from the USA to UK

Find the right commodity code

To import goods from the USA, your items will need a commodity code. Authorities will inspect the code to determine what the items are and whether you’ve paid the required duty and tax.

Commodity codes also indicate whether your goods are legal, follow safety regulations and can be used to complete outstanding declarations or paperwork. To identify the right commodity code for your goods, use the UK Government Trade Tariff.

Find your EORI number

Customs use an Economic Operator Registration Identification Number (EORI) to monitor all of the UK’s imported and exported goods.

You’ll need an EORI number to import from the USA to UK. To receive one within a couple of days, you can apply for an EORI number with the UK government’s online service.

Check if you need a licence

Importing goods into the UK from the USA may require a licence. However, it depends on the type of goods you import. Items like controlled drugs, plants, veterinary medicines and animal products all require specific licences and certificates.

If you plan to import from the USA, be sure to visit the Department for International Trade to check if you need a licence. There are also specific goods that cannot be exported out of the US, including (but not limited to):

  • Counterfeit, bootlegged or pirated items
  • Currency, gems, precious metals and stones
  • Firearms, weaponry & military/tactical equipment
  • Hazardous materials, such as fireworks, fire extinguishers and lighters with fuel and matches
  • Gambling materials and items

Include full details on invoices and labels

Your item’s labels should have the full, correct details of

  • A comprehensive description of your items
  • Quantity of goods
  • Commodity codes
  • Value of goods
  • Sender and receiver

Shipping Options

The freight services available to you will depend on the size and value of your goods.

Sea freight import from the USA to UK

If you’re importing a high volume of goods (typically weighing over 100kg), sea shipping can be done with a full container. For smaller shipments, you can opt for a shared container.

Air freight import from the USA to UK

Air freight is a more practical option for goods of smaller weights. They are usually delivered directly to your chosen address and can take 6 to 18 days to arrive.

Customs and Duties

When importing goods into the UK from the USA, you’ll need to pay VAT and duty. How much you owe will depend on the imported goods, and you may need to employ a freight or customs broker to help calculate the costs.

Paying duty

Any import from the USA to UK will have a duty rate. The amount payable will vary depending on the item. To find out what you owe, use the UK Government Trade Tariff: this online service will help you find the accurate costs.

Paying VAT

UK businesses will also need to pay VAT to import goods from the USA.

The current UK rate of 20% is owed on the value of the goods, shipping costs and customs duties. Your goods will be released from customs once you or an appointed customs broker have paid the necessary fees.

Tips for successful importing from the USA

Importing goods from the USA to the UK can open up valuable opportunities for businesses, but careful planning is essential for maximising profitability. Here’s how to navigate the process efficiently:

Find the right supplier

Choosing a reliable supplier is critical. You'll want to ensure they can meet UK standards and that their products are of consistently high quality. Use platforms like ThomasNet or Kompass to find suppliers, read reviews, and compare products.

Price your goods

For profitability, price your goods properly: this means including all costs associated with getting the product to the end consumer, not just the purchase price.

Consider the cost of transportation and the recommended shipping option (air, sea, etc.), as well as insurance and freight charges.

Ensure there is demand!

Market research will help you optimise your inventory to meet consumer demands. Before importing goods from the USA to the UK, consider a small, controlled launch of the product in specific areas to gauge consumer response.

FAQs

What types of products can I import from the USA to the UK? Importing products from the USA to the UK can be a lucrative business decision, given the wide range of goods available. Here's a brief overview of some key categories and types of products that are commonly imported:

  • Technology and electronics
  • Fashion and apparel
  • Beauty products
  • Food and beverages
  • Automotive parts and accessories
  • Health and fitness equipment
  • Home and garden products
  • Toys and children's products

How long does it take to import goods from the USA to the UK?

How long it takes for your imported goods to arrive will depend on the selected shipping option, as well as the cargo size and weight. Typically, goods travelling by sea freight can reach the UK within 4-6 weeks, whereas air freight can take 6-18 days.

What are the different shipping options available for importing from the USA?

The main shipping options for importing from the USA are sea and air freight.

What duties and taxes will I need to pay when importing from the USA?

Before receiving your goods, you may have to pay VAT, customs duty and excise duty. The amount payable will depend on the goods themselves, their country of origin and your chosen shipping method.

What are the risks associated with importing goods from the USA?

While importing goods into the UK from the USA can be lucrative, it also has various risks. Planning can help mitigate potential problems.

Financial risks

Exchange rates between the GBP and USD can affect the cost of imports by impacting pricing and margins. To hedge against currency fluctuations, lock in exchange rates using forward contracts.

Product quality issues

Variability in the quality of goods received can lead to customer dissatisfaction and returns, which are costly. Implement stringent quality control measures both pre and post-shipment to avoid this.

Supply chain disruptions

Common issues include delays at the port of origin, during transit, or in UK customs, all of which can disrupt your supply chain. Having multiple suppliers can mitigate the risk of severe disruptions with any single supplier.

Do I need to be registered for VAT when importing from the USA?

UK businesses importing goods from the USA must register with HMRC for VAT. However, individuals importing goods from the USA do not need a VAT number.

How can I get a quote for shipping costs from the USA to the UK?

With our easy-to-use tool, customers can assess the cost of international freight shipping. To start, tell us your destination and point of origin, along with any applicable postcodes for import and export locations.

Enter the dimensions of your shipment, including its length, height, breadth, and weight (those comparing pallet shipping prices must further choose from our selection of predetermined pallet sizes).

Once the relevant shipping information has been submitted, all you have to do is click "compare prices". We'll then provide you with the best freight shipping quotes from couriers. It's a fast, simple method of finding affordable prices!