Freight shipping between the UK and Philippines: Rates -Transit time – Duties & taxes

Main ports of Philippines

Port of Manila

The port of Manila is the largest and busiest port in the Philippines. Located in the capital city, it serves as a major gateway for international trade, handling a wide range of cargo, including containers, bulk commodities, and passenger ships.

Port of Batangas

The port of Batangas is a significant seaport located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. It is known for its efficient operations and serves as a vital hub for both domestic and international trade. The port handles various types of cargo, including containerized goods, liquid bulk, and vehicles.

Port of Cebu

Situated in the province of Cebu, the port of Cebu is an important seaport in the central region of the Philippines. It serves as a major gateway for trade and commerce, accommodating various types of cargo, including containers, general merchandise, and bulk commodities. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating regional and international maritime activities.

TOP 5 – Shipping line

Transit time between UK ports and Philippines ports

How should you ship your goods? In a Full Container Load? In a less-than-container load?

When deciding how to ship your goods, you have two main options: Full Container Load (FCL) or Less-than-Container Load (LCL).

• The 20 feet container (which has a capacity of 33 cubic meters).
• The 40 feet container (which has a capacity of 67 cubic meters).
• The 40 feet HQ (High Cube, which has a capacity of 76 cubic meters).

Specialized maritime transport between the UK and Philippines

• Refrigerated container (Reefer container)

A refrigerated container, commonly known as a reefer container, is a specialized container used for transporting temperature-sensitive goods. It is equipped with a built-in refrigeration unit to maintain a controlled temperature environment throughout the shipment. Reefer containers are essential for preserving the quality and integrity of perishable items such as food products, pharmaceuticals, and certain chemicals.

• Roro

RO-RO, or Roll-On/Roll-Off, is a method of cargo shipping where wheeled vehicles such as cars, trucks, and trailers are driven onto a ship and secured in place for transport. This method is commonly used for transporting vehicles, heavy machinery, and other large cargo items. The popularity of RO-RO shipping has grown in recent years due to its speed, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility.

• Bulk

Bulk shipping, also known as bulk cargo, refers to the transportation of goods in large quantities without packaging or containers. It involves the movement of loose, unpackaged commodities such as grains, minerals, liquids, ores, and other dry or liquid bulk materials.

• OOG

It is the cargo that exceeds the standard size and dimensions for regular container shipping. This type of cargo may be too heavy, too tall, too wide, or too long to fit into a standard shipping container. As a result, special arrangements are required to transport it safely and securely. Typically, this involves using specialized equipment such as flat racks or open-top containers, or even breakbulk vessels to transport the OOG cargo.

How much coin the Philippines or in the UK?

The cost of importing goods into the Philippines or the UK can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the nature of the goods, the shipping method chosen (e.g., sea freight, air freight), the volume or weight of the shipment, the origin and destination locations, customs duties and taxes, handling fees, and any additional services required such as customs clearance or documentation.

According to sea freight equivalence rules, the weight-to-volume ratio is 1 tonne = 1 CBM.

For LCL options, the base price is always calculated according to the weight/volume ratio basis. Due to this ratio, the maximum weight, also known as "Rechargeable Baggage", is used in the fare calculation. The FCL option is usually priced per container, depending on the size/type of container used and the carrier that provides it.

Additional charges

Air Freight between UK and the Philippines

Why choose air freight?

There are several reasons to choose air freight as a preferred mode of transportation:

• Speed: Air freight is significantly faster compared to other modes of transport such as sea or road. It allows for expedited delivery, making it ideal for time-sensitive shipments or urgent goods that need to reach their destination quickly.
• Reliability: Airlines operate on fixed schedules, providing a high level of reliability in terms of departure and arrival times. This predictability helps ensure that your goods are delivered on time and minimizes the risk of delays.
• Global Reach: Air freight offers extensive coverage and connects major cities and airports worldwide. It enables businesses to access markets across different countries and continents, expanding their reach and facilitating international trade.
• Enhanced Security: Airports have stringent security measures in place, including advanced screening and monitoring systems. This ensures a higher level of security for valuable or sensitive cargo, reducing the risk of theft or damage during transit.
• Reduced Inventory Costs: With faster transit times, air freight allows for reduced inventory holding costs. Businesses can maintain lower stock levels and rely on just-in-time delivery, optimizing their supply chain efficiency and minimizing storage expenses.
• Climate-Controlled Options: Air freight offers specialized services for temperature-sensitive or perishable goods. Refrigerated or controlled environments can be provided, ensuring the integrity and quality of sensitive products like pharmaceuticals, perishable foods, or electronics.

While air freight may be relatively more expensive compared to other modes of transport, its advantages in terms of speed, reliability, global connectivity, and security make it a preferred choice for time-critical shipments, high-value goods, or businesses seeking efficient supply chain management.

Exactly what DocShipper is an expert of!

How much cost air freight between the UK and the Philippines cost?

How long is air freight between the UK and the Philippines?

Air freight between the UK and the Philippines can vary depending on several factors, including the specific departure and arrival airports, the chosen airline, any layovers or transshipment, and the nature of the cargo. Generally, the transit time for air freight shipments between the UK and the Philippines ranges from approximately 2 to 7 days. However, it's important to note that these are estimated time frames and can be subject to change based on various circumstances such as weather conditions, customs clearance processes, and flight schedules.

How to calculate your volumetric volume?

For air freight, the weight-to-volume ratio is 1 due to the air equivalence rule 6 (1 ton per 6 CBM) with a ratio of inches to net weight of 1:6 or less. So divide the actual volume by 6 to get the volumetric weight, which is used as the reason for the charge.For express cargo, the standard is 1:5.                                                                             

If the total volume of goods is 1 CBM, the model is:

For conventional air freight:

1 CBMcorresponds to = 167 kg (1:6)

For express air freight:
1 CBM  corresponds to = equivalent to 200 kg (1:Five)

Door-to-Door service delivery between the UK and the Philippines

Our door-to-door service offers convenient and hassle-free delivery between the UK and the Philippines. We handle the entire logistics process, from collection at the origin to final delivery at the destination. Our services include customs clearance, transportation, and last-mile delivery, ensuring a seamless experience for our customers.

With our extensive network and expertise, we ensure timely and secure delivery of your goods, providing you with peace of mind and allowing you to focus on your core business. Experience the convenience of our door-to-door service for efficient shipping between the UK and the Philippines.

Advantages of the Door-to-Door service

The door-to-door service offers several advantages:

• Convenience: With door-to-door service, you have the convenience of a single point of contact for all your shipping needs. From pickup to delivery, the entire process is managed by the service provider, saving you time and effort.
• Time-saving: Door-to-door service eliminates the need for you to coordinate multiple transportation modes or arrange for pick-up and delivery separately. This saves valuable time and streamlines the shipping process.
• Enhanced security: With door-to-door service, your goods are handled by professionals throughout the entire journey. This ensures a higher level of security and reduces the risk of loss, damage, or theft during transportation.
• Customized solutions: Door-to-door service providers offer tailored solutions based on your specific requirements. Whether it's arranging for special handling, packaging, or documentation, they can accommodate your needs and provide personalized service.
• Peace of mind: By opting for door-to-door service, you can have peace of mind knowing that your shipment is being handled by experts who are experienced in international logistics. You can track the progress of your shipment and receive regular updates, keeping you informed throughout the process.

Overall, the door-to-door service provides convenience, time-saving, security, customized solutions, and peace of mind, making it an advantageous option for shipping goods between locations.

Customs clearance in the Philippines for goods imported from the UK

When importing goods from the UK to the Philippines, customs clearance is a crucial step in the process. It involves preparing and submitting the necessary documentation, including the commercial invoice, packing list, and other relevant certificates.

The customs authorities will assess the goods, verify the declared value, and determine the applicable duties and taxes. Once the payments are made, the customs officials will inspect the shipment to ensure compliance with regulations. Successful customs clearance allows for the legal entry of goods into the Philippines, enabling smooth import operations.

The consequence of the Philippines’ importation into the UK

The Philippines is a significant source of various goods for importation in the UK. With its diverse industries and skilled workforce, the Philippines offers a range of products including electronics, textiles, agricultural goods, and more. Importing from the Philippines can provide UK businesses with access to competitive pricing, high-quality products, and potential partnerships with Filipino suppliers.

Additionally, the strong bilateral trade relationship between the two countries, supported by trade agreements, facilitates smoother import processes. Importing from the Philippines not only expands the product offerings for UK businesses but also promotes economic cooperation and mutually beneficial growth between the two nations.

How can I find my HS code?

To find your HS code, follow these steps: Understand your product's characteristics and function, then visit your country's customs authority website to access the official HS code database.

Search or browse through the categories and subheadings to find the code that closely matches your product. Consider any specific rules or exceptions that may apply. Cross-reference the identified code with other sources or seek professional assistance to ensure accuracy.

Proper classification with the correct HS code is essential for international trade and customs purposes.

You can visit this site to search for information about the type of product you are sending.

When shipping internationally, it is crucial to assign the appropriate HS code or product code to each item in your package. This code helps determine the amount of import duties and taxes you need to pay.

To find the correct code for your product, you can visit a website that provides information on HS tariff codes, such as the British HS tariff code database. This database not only helps identify products and their corresponding codes but also provides information on tariff quotas and permits required for moving goods.

Ensuring the accurate classification of your products with the correct HS code is essential for smooth import and export processes.

Does DocShipper impose any duties?

No DocShipper does not charge any additional taxes or customs duties. As proof, we will send you the official documents from the customs authorities.

Process customs

When importing goods from the UK into the Philippines, customs procedures are in place to ensure compliance and facilitate the seamless entry of goods.

Customs documentation 

Importers are responsible for completing and submitting the necessary customs documents, such as the TradeNet Authorization Declaration, when importing goods. This document contains comprehensive information about the imported goods, including their description, quantity, value, and origin.

Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Importers are typically obligated to pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) on imported goods. The calculation of GST is based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value, which encompasses the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight charges. It is crucial for importers to make sure they have sufficient funds to cover their GST payments.

Customs duties and trade regulations

Importers should be aware that certain products may be subject to customs duties based on their classification and the applicable tax rates. It is important to understand the specific regulations and restrictions that apply to imported goods. This may include the requirement for permits, licenses, or certificates for certain products. By familiarizing themselves with these regulations, importers can ensure compliance and avoid any potential delays or penalties during the customs clearance process.

Customs administration

Philippines Customs authorities have the right to conduct inspections on certain shipments to verify compliance with customs regulations. These inspections can take different forms, including physical inspections of the goods, inspection of accompanying documents, or the use of scanning devices to examine the contents of the shipment.

Payment of duties and taxes

Importers have the obligation to settle all relevant duties, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and any other applicable charges before the release of imported goods. These payments can be made electronically through various methods, including GIRO (General Interbank Recurring Order) or major credit cards.

Customs clearance

Once the customs clearance process is successfully completed, the importer will receive a customs permit or release instructions. This document signifies that the item has been released and is now ready for further distribution or collection. Importers should retain these documents for record-keeping purposes and to comply with any testing requirements.

By adhering to proper customs procedures and fulfilling the necessary requirements, importers can ensure a seamless and lawful importation of goods from the UK into the Philippines. It is advisable to stay informed about any changes in customs regulations and seek professional advice when needed to effectively manage the import process.

Customs contact

What documentation is required for freight shipping between UK and the Philippines?

Documents of conformity (CE standard)

A certificate of origin is used to confirm the country of origin for transported items. It indicates the country where the goods were manufactured, but it should not be mistaken for the country of origin of the product itself. Differentiating between the country of manufacture and the country of origin is crucial in international trade.

Certificate of Origin

To clear your goods through customs, you will need to have the original invoice, whether it is in the UK or the Philippines. Be sure to verify that the amount on the packing list and the original invoice are the same.

* Note that this document is an example and can vary for an importation in the Philippines

Bill of Lading

Delivery of the specified product by the exporter is evidenced by a bill of lading, which serves as a shipping document. A bill of lading is also a legal document and should be considered. Additionally, we provide all the information you need to process and properly bill your fares.

* Note that this document is an example and can vary for an importation in the Philippines

Packing list

A “packing list” is a document created by a shipper for each party in the supply chain. All air and sea shipments require this official document detailing all product and packaging details included in each shipment.

Additional DocShipper Services

DocShipper is a provider of well-structured supply chain services aimed at helping clients save on management and operational costs while achieving improved performance metrics. Our comprehensive range of services includes warehousing and distribution solutions in both domestic and international contexts.

With our extensive global transport logistics network, we possess a remarkable global reach, enabling us to effortlessly reach any destination worldwide. By analyzing internal performance and identifying areas of inefficiency, we assist our customers in reducing costs. We strive to establish and implement tailored, cost-effective supply solutions that precisely meet the unique requirements and expectations of our clients. With DocShipper, clients can expect streamlined operations, reduced expenses, and enhanced supply chain performance.