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

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)

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).

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

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.

*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.

Customs contacts

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.

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