Looking at methods to import goods in Canada ? Finding information on the internet can be hard especially since some of them can be fake. Furthermore you need to find a lot of information like which shipping option to take ( sea freight or air freight ?) , transport regulation or customs procedures, so this can be hard to do. This is why at DocShipper UK as we are specialized in shipping and sourcing we have prepared this guide to help you understand everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
What is the best method of transport between Canada and the UK?
Importing or exporting your goods in Canada is a vast business,at the end of 2022, the trade between Canada and the UK was at £10,9 billion. Import or export it can be done by sea freight or air freight. These 2 options have their strength and weakness. At DocShipper UK, we are here to help you choose the best option.
Sea freight from the UK to Canada
DocShipper Recommendation: Sea freight is the best option for you if :
- The total weight of your shipment is more than 2 CBM.
- You want the cheapest way of transportation.
DocShipper Note: If you want some advice, don't hesitate and contact us, we will answer you in less than 24 hours!
Sea freight from the UK to Canada
Shipping from the UK to Canada
The most important requirement if you wish to import goods in Canada via sea you must know from where your goods will depart and from where they will be delivered.
Main ports of the UK
The Port of London Gateway
The Port of London Gateway is a modern deep-sea container port at the mouth of the Thames in Essex, England. Opened in 2013, the port is one of the UK's newest and most technologically advanced ports. The port is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities such as large container terminals, automatic cranes, and railway terminals. Designed to handle the world's largest container ships, it can handle over 3.5 million TEUs of cargo per year. The Port of London plays an important role in supporting international trade and is well-served by major transport links.
The Port of Tilbury
The Tilbury port is a major port on the River Thames in the South East of England, about 40 miles east of central London. A major port for over 100 years, he is now one of Britain's busiest ports. The port handles a variety of cargoes such as containers, RO-RO (roll-on, roll-off) cargo, bulk cargo, and forest products. It is also an important hub for the UK construction industry, with large amounts of building materials being transported through the port. The port's strategic location and excellent transport links make it an important gateway to the UK and Europe, and play an important role in supporting the country's economy.
The Port of Southampton
The port of southampton is a major container and cruise port on the south coast of England. It is the UK's busiest cruise port , handling over 1.8 million TEUs of containerized cargo each year. The port has good road and rail links throughout the UK, with direct service to major ports around the world. The port of Southampton has a long history and has played an important role in the development of the UK shipping industry. It is now a major hub for exportation and importation , it is also a popular destination for cruise ships and their passengers.
The Port of Felixstowe
The Felixstowe Port is a major container port on the east coast of England near Felixstowe in Suffolk. It is the UK's busiest container port and one of Europe's busiest container ports, handling over 4 million TEUs (Twenty Foot Equivalent Units) of cargo each year. The port has excellent road and rail links across the UK, with direct links to major ports around the world. The Port of Felixstow plays a key role in supporting UK trade and global supply chains and has a strong reputation for efficiency, reliability, and innovation in the container shipping industry.
Main ports of Canada
The port of Vancouver
The Port of Vancouver is the largest in the country and is overseen by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. In terms of tonnage, it is the third largest port in North America. Strategically located between various maritime trade routes and river routes, it is served by a network of highways and railways. It handles more than 76 million tons of the country's total cargo volume, equivalent to approximately $43 billion in imports and exports.
The port of Montreal
The Port of Montreal is on the shortest direct trade route between North America and Europe, giving it a significant strategic advantage. Specifically, it is located along the St. Lawrence River waterway. The port handles over 35 million tons per year.
TOP 5 – Shipping line
Transit time between UK and Canadian ports
To make everything clear for you, here is the average time (in days) from the major British ports and the Canadian ones:
Port of London Gateway | Port of Southampton | Port of Felixstowe | Port of Tilbury | ||
Port of Vancouver | 22 days | 27 days | 20 days | 21 days | |
Port of Montreal | 27 days | 27 days | 23 days | 24 days |
*To have more accurate information we recommend you to contact the freight forwarder.
Advantages of sea freight
Sea freight has several advantages when transporting goods :
- It has economies of scale and is inexpensive even for large shipments
- Sea freight gives companies extensive global reach by connecting them to markets around the world
- It has a low carbon footprint and contributes to sustainable supply chain practices.
- Sea freight is versatile and accommodates many types of cargo. At DocShipper we offer solid schedules and established delivery routes.
- Fewer handling processes and less risk of goods being damaged
- Sea freight has storage and consolidation options.
Disadvantages of sea freight
Sea freight has its advantages, but it also has some disadvantages to consider. The biggest disadvantage is that the transportation time is longer than airmail. This can be problematic for time-sensitive shipments and can impact supply chains and customer satisfaction. Additionally sea freight weather disturbances such as storms and rough seas are prone to occur and can cause delays and unpredictable delivery schedules. Another limitation is the lack of flexibility as it becomes difficult to access or change the cargo once it is loaded onto the ship. Furthermore, sea freight is highly dependent on the availability and quality of port infrastructure, and inadequate facilities can lead to inefficiencies and delays. Another drawback is complicated paperwork and customs procedures that require attention to detail and can delay customs clearance. They also require proper packaging and insurance as they may be damaged or lost during handling.
How should you ship your goods ? In a Full Container Load? In a less-than-container load?
There are three standard container sizes. All of these can be used for personal transportation and commercial purposes. In general, we find these mostly used by importers for all kinds of dry products :
- 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)
DocShipper info: Please note that sea freight is not a fast mode of transportation. You need to plan for delays and total transit time in days. In addition, the manufacturer may not have stock. When you place an order for a product, it will be a made-to-order product. If you want to know more about sea freight you can contact us !
FCL (Full Container Load)
FCL is a globally utilized abbreviation for "Full Container Load". It means that the whole space in the holder is used for only one client from the departure to the arrival. The container will be closed with a seal at the departure from the provider's premises until conveyance to the proctor, which limits the risks and the costs.
It is a great way of transportation for you to utilize if you plan to buy a very big amount of merchandise.
To conclude, a full holder FCL will be more secure and less expensive for a bigger volume, regardless of whether you just fill half of it. To be sure, from 15 m3, a full compartment can likewise enjoy the benefit of being less expensive than LCL.
DocShipper advice: The price is typically a level rate for the whole container. The expense per cubic meter is by and large not exactly the assessed LCL cost per cubic meter. Remember that it will be savvy to utilize this strategy regardless the space you fill in the holder.
Consolidation or LCL (Less than Container Load)
LCL transporting choice will be reasonable when you need more merchandise (volume or amount) to fill a full compartment. Moreover, it permits you to pay just for the space you really want, making it beneficial for your little shipments. Your products will be stacked with different shipments, from another importer, which are going to the same arrival.
We recommend you to use this method if:
- You will transport a more modest volume
- You expect to gather a few shipments and additionally plan to convey to a few beneficiaries inbound
- Your products are not voluminous but rather too weighty, ocean combination will be more reasonable compares to airfreight.
DocShipper advice: We suggest that you use LCL choice on the off chance that you have a volume of products going from 2 m3 to 13/14 m3. Past that, it will be ideal and less expensive to deliver in full compartments.
Advantages of FCL shipping
- The container is sealed at the departure
- The risks of problems and damages are diminished
- The cheapest way of transportation for big volumes
Disadvantages of FCL shipping
- It is used for big amount of merchandise with a minimum volume of 15 CBM
- It is a very slow way of transportation
Advantages of LCL shipping
- The price you pay per cubic meter is based on the total occupied volume you are using
- It is suitable for any types of products
- For small volumes, it is the cheapest option
Disadvantages of LCL shipping
- You need to know the exact number of pallets you need
- There is more handling, so that means that there is a higher chance of damages.
- Sea freight is not a fast-shipping method
Docshipper Tip: Our experts recommend contacting your shipping company or carrier for the most accurate information on delivery times. You will find that some companies take longer than others. If you need this kind of information, you can contact our DocShipper experts . More information about DocShipper and our services can also be found on our official website.
Specialized maritime transport between UK and Canada
Refrigerated container (Reefer container)
A refrigerated container, short for refrigerated container, is a specialized shipping container designed to transport perishables and products that require a temperature-controlled environment. They play an important role in global trade and enable the safe and efficient transportation of perishable goods around the world.
Roro
RO-RO or roll-on/roll-off refers to a freight transportation method in which wheeled vehicles such as cars, trucks and trailers are placed on board a vessel and fixed in place for transport. This method is often used to transport vehicles, heavy equipment and other large cargo. RO-RO transportation has grown in popularity in recent years due to its speed, cost-effectiveness and flexibility.
Vrac (Bulk)
Transport of non-embedded, solid or liquid goods in vraquier ships
OOG
Cargo that exceeds standard sizes and dimensions for normal container transport. This type of shipment may be too heavy or too tall, wide or long to fit in a standard shipping container. Therefore, special precautions should be taken for safe transportation. OOG cargo is typically transported using specialized equipment such as flat racks and open top containers, as well as general cargo vessels.
How much does it cost to import goods in Canadian or in the UK?
Additional charges
Some additional charges may apply when importing goods from the UK into Canada. These charges may vary depending on the type of item and its value. Here are some of the most common fees:
Customs Duties
Customs duties are taxes imposed on imported goods. Prices vary depending on the product type and country of origin. Sets the tariff rate applied by the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA).
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Consumption tax
Port and Shipping Surcharges
Canadian port and shipping surcharges refer to additional charges or fees levied on goods or cargo transiting a Canadian port. These surcharges are usually imposed by shipping companies, carriers or port authorities to cover various costs associated with port operations and transportation services. Below are some of the common port and shipping surcharges in Canada :
Terminal Fee (THC)
This is the fee charged by the terminal operator to handle the container within the port. We cover the costs of loading and unloading containers, cargo storage, management operations, etc.
Harbor Congestion Surcharge
In the event of congestion at certain ports, carriers may impose congestion surcharges to compensate for delays and additional customs clearance required. The purpose of this surcharge is to facilitate smoother operations and encourage the use of less congested ports.
Fuel Surcharge
Shipping lines may collect fuel surcharges to compensate for fluctuations in fuel prices. As fuel costs can fluctuate, this surcharge helps cover the cost of bunker fuel that the vessel uses during transit.
High season surcharge (PSS)
During peak shipping seasons, such as holiday periods or periods of high demand, carriers may add surcharges for capacity constraints and increased costs. PSS helps balance supply and demand during these peak times.
Safety surcharge
In response to increased security measures and regulations, security surcharges may be levied to cover costs associated with ensuring the security and protection of cargo and port facilities.
Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF)
CAF is an additional charge that takes into account exchange rate fluctuations. This is designed to reduce the impact of currency fluctuations on shipping rates, especially for international shipments.
It is important to note that specific surcharges, their amounts and applicable circumstances may vary by shipping company, port and carrier. These additional charges are generally communicated in the shipping contract, rate quote or rate plan provided by the shipping service provider.
Air Freight between the UK and Canada
Airfreight from the UK to Canada
DocShipper Recommendation: Air freight is the best solution if :
- The total amount is less than 2 CBM.
- If you need very short transportation times.
DocShipper Note: If you require any information, fulfill our online form and our experts will get back to you in less than 24 hours.
Conventional or express air freight?
2 distinct forms of transportation in terms of air freight exist :
Conventional air freight: In this method, goods are transported by regular flights. The idea is to take advantage of the space on the plane. It is used by many companies such as Qatar Airways, Thai Airways, British Airways, and Air China. This option is best for packages that are not urgent and can be shipped within a reasonable period of time.
Express air freight: This method is a more expensive alternative. Airplanes specially built for air transport are used to transport goods. Providing door-to-door services such as B. Collection of luggage from airlines and delivery to customers is performed by an organization called a "carrier". For example, UPS, FedEx, DHL, etc. For an additional fee, carriers can transport packages and documents of any size and weight with guaranteed delivery times. This method of delivering products to customers allows personal delivery of those products anywhere in the world. This option is recommended for urgent shipments that require fast delivery.
DocShipper Advice: Do you want to send valuables or need your goods to reach their destination quickly? Airfreight is the transportation method of choice for you. We provide a complete air freight service with nothing to worry about. Please contact us for more information.
Canadian Airports
- YYZ - Toronto Pearson International Airport
- YVR - Vancouver International Airport
- YUL - Montréal-Trudeau International Airport
- YYC - Calgary International Airport
- YEG - Edmonton International Airport
- YOW - Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport
- YHZ - Halifax Stanfield International Airport
Why choose air freight?
Fastest shipping method
Compared to sea freight , the advantage of air freight is that goods can be transported quickly. Product availability is very important.
Reliable flight and arrival times
Departure and arrival times are showed , and most of the time the airlines arrive on time. However, departures are every hour.
Send packages anywhere
Mobile providers possess extensive databases cover almost every corner of the globe. This enables you to transport your belongings to any location.
Reduce premium spending
As the airship cargo has a comparatively brief travel time, the safeguarding impact is diminished. Although the charges for airship transportation are high-priced, you can curtail your protection expenses and save money.
High security level and reduced risk of theft or damage
Security is important. Therefore, air freight can reduce the risk of cargo theft and injury with high security and strict management.
Low capacity and low inventory
Due to the short cargo transit time of airships, smaller volumes can be transported more frequently and may not require as much additional space. Customs clearance, shipment identification and handling are also more efficient as most goods are delivered within hours. Airships have a short cargo season, so even small amounts can be transported without taking up too much space. Shipments are delivered within hours of customs clearance, duty-free and efficient processing.
Less stuff to pack
On average, air shipments require less packaging than ground shipments. This means you save time and money by avoiding urgent assistance. Most airlines have apps that allow you to track your progress from departure to arrival.
Exactly what DocShipper is an expert of!
How much cost air freight between the UK and Canada cost?
When transporting by air freight, in the future it will be important to consider all costs incurred during transportation. In particular, consider airport fees, document registration fees, duties and taxes.
Air Freight is calculated by weight and kg. Note that conventional air freight does not have such high fixed costs, so the freight per kilogram is always significantly cheaper than courier. Finally, freight forwarders, whether airlines or post offices, consider the most important value between gross weight (by scale) and dimensional weight (by dimensions).
How long is air freight between the UK and Canada ?
Airfreight travel times between the United Kingdom (UK) and Canada depend on a number of factors, including specific departure and arrival airports, weather conditions, flight schedules, and possible and possible stops. However, on average, the estimated flight time for air cargo between the UK and Canada is around 7-9 hours.
It is important to note that this is flight time only and does not take into account additional factors such as customs clearance, loading and unloading at both ends, which may add some time to the entire transportation process. Total transit time for airfreight shipments between the UK and Canada depends on many variables and the efficiency of the logistics operations involved.
Gatwick airport (London) | Manchester | Glasgow | |
Toronto | 7 hours | 6 hours | 6 hours |
Vancouver | 9 hours | 9 hours | 8 hours |
Montréal | 6 hours | 6 hours | 6 hours |
*Please note that these transit times are indicative and may vary according to various factors.
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 CBM corresponds to = 167 kg (1:6)
For Express Air Freight:
1 CBM corresponds to = equivalent to 200 kg (1:Five)
Customs clearance in Canada for freight shipping from the UK
If you need to import goods from the UK into Canada, this section will guide you through customs procedures. This part will help you understand Canadian standards and obligations.
Below are all the tools at your disposal as part of this technique to help you understand what the responsibilities and costs are and how they are calculated and collected.
The consequence of Brexit for freight shipping in Canada
Brexit, meaning the UK leaving the European Union (EU), has had some impact on Canadian imports. Canada and the UK have historically enjoyed close trade ties, but Brexit has brought about changes affecting import processes between the two countries. Here are the impacts of Brexit on imports into Canada:
Trade Agreement
Prior to Brexit, trade relations between Canada and the UK were governed by the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which provides for preferential trade terms. After Brexit, Canada and the UK negotiated a new trade agreement known as the Canada-UK Trade Continuation Agreement (TCA). The agreement maintains many elements of CETA and ensures continued priority access to goods traded between Canada and the United Kingdom.
Customs procedures
As the UK is no longer part of the EU Customs Union, customs procedures and documentation requirements have changed. Importers and exporters must comply with the new customs regulations, including submitting required documents such as commercial invoices, certificates of origin and customs declarations.
Customs duties and duties
Under CETA, most goods traded between Canada and the EU were subject to preferential tariff rates or tax exemptions. With Brexit, these preferential interest rates will no longer apply directly to trade between Canada and the UK. However, the TCA ensures that most goods traded between Canada and the UK will continue to be duty-free or reduced, as long as the rules of origin of the Agreement are respected.
In order to manage the impact of Brexit on imports into Canada, it is important that businesses stay informed about the specific rules, regulations and procedures relating to importing goods from the UK. Consulting customs brokers, trade associations or government agencies involved in international trade will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information for your individual situation.
How can I find my HS code ?
Customs duty is calculated by amount based on the CAF value of the item. We advise you to regularly check the website of the Canadian Government for the calculation of charges and duties.
Does DocShipper impose any duties ?
You can visit this site to search for information about the type of product you are sending.
When shipping internationally, each item in the package must have an HS code or product code and must be included on the commercial invoice. It is important that you enter the correct code, as it determines the amount of import duties and other taxes you must pay.
The British HS tariff code helps to identify products the code and also the product names, it is use for import and export. It shows if there is a tariff quota or if you need a permit to move your goods.
Process customs
Certain customs procedures must be followed when importing goods into Canada. Here is an overview of Canadian customs procedures:
1.Determine import permission : Make sure the goods you want to import are legal for entry into Canada. Certain items may be prohibited, restricted or subject to special requirements, such as: B. License or Permit. To verify import eligibility, visit the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) website or contact your customs broker.
2.Get company number : If you don't already have a Business Number (BN), you must apply for one with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The BN serves as an identification number for customs.
3. Determine customs regulations : Identify specific customs requirements for your goods. This includes determining the correct tariff classification (harmonized system code), valuation method, country of origin, and applicable trade agreements or preferences.
4. Prepare your documents : Collect and fill out the documents required for customs clearance. This typically includes commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading or air waybills, and related permits or certificates. Make sure the documents accurately describe the goods, their value and origin.
5. Submit your customs declaration : Submit customs declarations to CBSA. This can be done electronically via CBSA's Electronic Data Interchange System (EDI). Or through CBSA's online portal, Integrated Import Declaration (IID). We provide all the information you need including shipping details, billing information and receipts.
6.Pay applicable duties and taxes : Calculate duties, taxes, and applicable charges based on the value and classification of your goods. Tariff rates can be found on the Tariff Schedule or the CBSA's online tool. Make the required payment to the CBSA to authorize the release of the goods.
7.Customs inspection and clearance : Depending on the risk assessment, CBSA may decide to inspect the goods. If your shipment is selected for inspection, work with CBSA officials to provide access to the requested information and goods. Goods will be shipped as soon as testing is complete and all requirements are met.
8.Records and Compliance : Keep accurate records of your import transactions, including invoices, customs declarations, and receipts. These records must be kept for at least six years and made available for CBSA audits and investigations.
It is important to note that customs clearance can be complex and requirements may vary depending on the type of goods and the specific circumstances of the import. By using the services of a licensed customs broker or seeking advice from the CBSA, you can ensure compliance with all customs procedures and regulations.
Docshipper Alert: Customs clearance can be very complicated and can waste valuable time. The easiest way to avoid this is to use our professional customs clearance services. We handle all administrative tasks and negotiations.Please feel free to contact us for more information.
Customs contacts
UK customs
Official website: Trade Tariff
The declaration must be submitted to the customs office where the goods are imported. All duties/taxes levied on imported goods must be prepaid before the goods are issued (import duties and taxes on goods and services).
What documentation is required for freight shipping between England and Canada?
Documents of conformity ( CE standard)
The country of origin of the transported goods is confirmed by a certificate of origin. The country of manufacture is stated in this document, but should not be confused with the country of origin of the product. This is a requirement of international trade.
Certificate of Origin
The original invoice issued in the UK or Canada is required for customs clearance of the goods. Please make sure the amount on the packing list matches the original invoice.
* Note that this document is an example and can vary for an importation in Canada
Bill of Lading
Delivery of the specified product by the exporter is evidenced by a bill of lading which serves as a shipping document. The 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 Canada
Packing list
A "packing list" is a document created by the shipper for each party in the supply chain. All air and sea shipments require this official document detailing all products and packaging included in each shipment.
Additional Services
Storage Service
We offer storage services at flexible short, medium, and long-term rates. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, under video surveillance, with the option of swipe card access, for the highest level of security. All our premises are ultra-secure and insured against fire hazards.
You can visit our dedicated page: Storage Services
Transport insurance
Transport insurance will allow you to cover any damage or breakage that your goods may suffer. Without insurance, you will be exposed to risks. We have negotiated with the best-certified insurers in order to offer you the most efficient insurance contract possible, both from a financial and a security point of view.
Visit our dedicated page: Insurance Services
Packaging service
The packaging of your products is an essential element during your transport. Indeed, good packing ensures the perfect stability of the product throughout the transport and protection during the loading, unloading, and storage. Do not hesitate to contact our team if you need competent personnel to pack any type of goods.
More information on our dedicated page: Packaging Services
Moving service
Use our international moving service to guarantee a perfect move. We offer several moving packages to always meet your needs. By going through us, you can save up to 30% on your moving estimate.
Visit our dedicated page: International Moving Services
FAQ | Freight shipping between the UK and Canada: Rates -Transit time - Duties & taxes
What is the difference between an FCL and an LCL ?
A full container means that the entire airline is handled by one distributor, as opposed to LCL, where goods are bundled from multiple distributors.
What are the advantages of sea freight ?
Sea freight, or ocean freight, offers several key advantages. First, it is cheap, allowing you to transport large quantities of goods at a lower unit cost. Second, maritime transport connects major ports and trade routes around the world, providing global shipping reach. Third, it has a high capacity to accommodate bulky or heavy cargo. Fourth, sea transportation is flexible, covering different types of goods and providing different transportation services. Finally, sea transport is considered more environmentally sustainable than air transport, contributing to a reduction in CO2 emissions.
What are the advantages of air freight ?
Airfreight, the transportation of goods by air, offers several decisive advantages. First, air freight offers unprecedented speed, allowing goods to be quickly delivered over long distances. Second, tight schedules improve reliability and reduce interruptions due to weather conditions and traffic jams. Third, air transport is ideal for perishables as it minimizes transit time and maintains product quality. Fourth, we offer enhanced security measures and tracking systems that ensure the safety and visibility of your valuable or time-sensitive shipments. Finally, air freight enables companies to efficiently access remote or inaccessible areas, expanding their market reach.
How much DocShipper services cost ?
Understanding the concept of fees can be difficult. Certain services are fixed price and others are customized, so prices may vary from project to project. If you have any questions or would like to request a quote from one of our experts, feel free to contact us.
DocShipper info: Do you like our article today? For your business interest, you may like the following useful articles :
- 5 supply chain disruption and how to avoid them
- E-Commerce Order Tracking: 6 Strategies for the Best Post-Purchase Experience
- Duty Deferment Account: A Guide for UK Importers
- Brexit Costs and Delays: a real Barrier to Trade for UK Businesses
- How to prevent yourself from scams in the freight forwarding industry?
DocShipper | Procurement - Quality control - Logistics
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