England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland make up the United Kingdom (UK). Together, these nations are the modern, prosperous home to over 67 million people. Unsurprisingly, it’s also the world’s fifth-largest economy.
These factors make it a great country for American companies to do business with. In this article, I’ll tell you what you need to know about using FedEx to ship from the United States to the United Kingdom!
FedEx UK Shipping In 2024
FedEx offers a variety of shipping options for customers shipping from the United States to the United Kingdom in 2024. International First Flight can deliver packages (up to 150 pounds) within hours, whereas International First, Priority Express, and International Priority offer one- to three-day shipping. International Economy takes anywhere from two to five days.
I have a lot more information to share about how to prepare your shipment and which items you’re allowed to ship to the UK, so make sure to keep reading!
Which Shipping Services Does FedEx Offer To The UK?
When it comes to international shipping, FedEx offers three tiers of services: as soon as possible, one to three business days, and economy.
Also, it’s essential to keep in mind that not all of the shipping options will be available for everyone because the availability of services depends on where you’re shipping from and to.
Fortunately, you can use FedEx’s price calculator tool for the most accurate estimates of the services available for your destination.
As Soon As Possible
FedEx International First Flight gets your shipment on the next available flight. Also, it ensures delivery within 24 hours and is available to most international countries.
One, Two, Or Three-Day Shipping
This mid-level tier of services includes:
- FedEx International First
- FedEx International Priority
Also, all of these services come with time-definite shipping and a money-back guarantee.
Further, International First will get packages to customers by 10 AM in one to three business days to most destinations, including the UK.
In comparison, International Priority delivers packages by noon in one to three business days.
Two To Five-Day Shipping
FedEx’s most economical international shipping option to the UK is International Economy. That said, this option provides time-definite delivery in two to five business days.
How Do I Ship A Package To The UK With FedEx?
While shipping internationally may seem a bit daunting, it’s similar to shipping domestically. But in case you need some extra help, follow these steps:
1. Ensure The Item Can Be Shipped
Each country has its own rules regarding the types of items that can be shipped across its borders.
Fortunately, you can find detailed, up-to-date information about UK-specific requirements referencing the individual Country Commercial Guides at export.gov.
In addition to these regulations, FedEx has a list of international shipping prohibitions (see below).
Naturally, check out both of these lists to ensure you can ship your item without encountering any problems.
2. Gather Important Information
Before filling out customs documents and creating an international shipping label, make sure you can answer the following questions:
- What is the purpose of your shipment?
- What is the shipment’s value?
- What are the quantities of each kind of item?
- How much do your items weigh?
3. Determine Which Customs Documents Are Needed
Which customs documents each shipment requires depends on the origin, the destination, and the commodity being shipped. Therefore, you’ll need to do some research for this part.
Fortunately, you can use the FedEx International Shipping Assist tool to ensure you have the correct documentation to successfully clear customs.
4. Create An International Shipping Label
When completing an international shipping label, be sure to provide the sender’s and recipient’s names, addresses, and phone numbers.
Next, add the description, quantity, and value of the commodities included in the shipment, along with the weight of the package.
After that, print out your label and place it inside a clear plastic pouch along with any other required documentation.
Finally, make sure not to tape over the label or cover it up in any way.
5. Complete & Submit Customs Documents
When completing customs forms, do your best to be as detailed as possible. For example, writing “men’s t-shirts” is better than “clothes.”
After completing the forms, submit them either electronically or manually.
Further, to submit the forms electronically, upload them through FedEx Electronic Trade Documents or FedEx Ship Manager.
On the other hand, to submit forms manually, print them and place them with your shipment.
6. Package & Drop Off Your Item
When shipping, appropriate packaging will ensure that your package arrives in good condition.
So, once your items are packaged, you can deposit your parcel at a FedEx store or drop box or schedule a pickup from your home or office.
What Things Cannot Be Shipped To The UK With FedEx?
As mentioned above, there are a number of items that FedEx prohibits in shipments from the United States to the United Kingdom.
Below, I’ve provided an abridged list of these items, but you can click here to see the complete list:
- Copyright works
- Eggs
- Firearms (including toy, replica, antique, paintball guns, weaponry, and their parts)
- Unprocessed wood
- Animal products
- Live animals
- Tobacco
- Alcohol
What Are The Maximum Dimensions For FedEx Packages To The UK?
Packages going to the UK can weigh up to 150 pounds. Also, their maximum dimensions are 108 inches in length or 130 inches in length and girth.
To know more, you can also read our posts on FedEx shipping restrictions, FedEx laptop shipping, and how fast is FedEx Home Delivery.
Conclusion
Shipping from the United States to the United Kingdom couldn’t be easier. In many ways, it’s just like completing a domestic shipment.
However, what’s different is that you need to complete a customs form and ensure that your package doesn’t contain any prohibited items.
