New to Exporting from the UK?
We have many years of experience in working with first time exporters and are happy to share our advice and assistance.
Are you of thinking exporting your goods from the UK for the first time? The shipping process is an important factor when selling overseas, and making this process as hassle free as possible for your customer is crucial. We have many years of experience in working with first time exporters and are happy to share our advice and assistance. Here are some of the key elements we think you should consider.
Choose the best method of shipping to export your goods
The method of transport for your exported goods is very important. You obviously want your goods to go as economically and quickly as possible. Once we know the destination and approximate size and weight we are happy to go over your shipping options, costs and liabilities.
Your goods can be exported by sea, air, road or courier service. You obviously want the costs to be economical but you don’t want the overall service to be more time consuming to you or your customer. Air freight has a quicker transit time, but can be more expensive. Sea freight (LCL or FCL) is cheaper but has a longer transit time. Every business has to weigh up the pros and cons of each option.We can provide rates for all options to help guide your decision.
The contract with your buyer
Using incoterms in your sales contract pre-determines each party’s responsibility for the shipment. They are internationally used and recognised in trade to define the obligations of the seller and buyer when moving goods. The terms make it clear who is responsible for each aspect of the cost and risk at each stage of movement.
The most common terms for exporting are EXW, CIF/CFR and FOB. We are happy to explain what these mean and what your liabilities are when trading under these terms.
As T. Ward Shipping ltd is a completely independent freight forwarder we are well placed to assist and offer impartial advice for any export enquiries you may have.
Your export documentation
Most products for most shipments simply require a standard commercial invoice and packing list – nice and easy! However, we always recommend you research what is best for you and your shipment. Certain commodities and some countries require special documentation as well as insurance - for example products originating from animals and plants require veterinary or phytosanitary certificates. Some countries require a certificate of origin. These can be obtained by local chamber authorities or via ourselves.
We also recommended you put shipping terms and HS (commodity) codes on your documents as well. In short, you must confirm the export documentation requirements for your goods based on the commodity and the destination. We will always give advice to our customers based on their individual requirements.
There can also be very specific requirements for exports to the EU which you can find more info on our road freight page.
Cargo Insurance
When you book shipments with a forwarder, shipping company or courier provider, you are only covered for a minimal value of the goods. If you want full cargo insurance cover, we can provide cover if requested.
Packaging for export
We can assist with everything from high value engineering products to art sculptures and paintings. Insurers require your goods to be professionally packed in order to get insurance cover for goods in transit.
But most importantly if you are selling your goods you will always want your goods to arrive in good condition.
Customs clearance for exports
We can help set you up with HMRC EORI number and assist you with classifying your goods using the HMRC Tariff Classification system.
Whether importing or exporting, when trading commercially you must have an EORI number. It only takes a couple of days to get, but it’s worth getting sooner than later, just to be on the safe side. All goods when importing or exporting need to have a HMRC tariff number, sometimes known as an HS code. If you’re unfamiliar with yours, this is something we can assist you with. More about customs clearance.
Further information
Scottish Government guidelines
Our top 5 tips for first time exporters
Our blog post on managing your exporting costs
Video - Top five tips for first time exporters
As T. Ward Shipping ltd is a completely independent freight forwarder we are well placed to assist and offer impartial advice for any export enquiries you may have. A great source of information can also be found on the HMRC exporting is great website.
We pride ourselves on our bespoke personalised service we give to every customer from individuals to small and medium size companies.