Last updated: 22 October 2026

Most of the goods we buy cross an ocean on a container ship, and you can use the same system to send your own goods overseas. Whether you are a small business exporting stock, a seller shipping pallets, or a family moving belongings, sea freight is almost always the cheapest way to move heavy or bulky goods internationally from the UK.

How sea freight works

1. Booking. You or a freight forwarder book space with a shipping line.
2. Collection. Goods are collected and taken to the port, or to a consolidation warehouse for shared loads.
3. Export customs. An export declaration is made through the UK customs system.
4. Ocean voyage. The container is loaded onto a ship at Felixstowe, Southampton, London Gateway, Liverpool or another port.
5. Import customs. The goods are cleared, and duty or taxes paid, at the destination port.
6. Delivery. The goods are delivered to the final address.

FCL vs LCL

A 20ft container holds about 33 cubic metres, which is roughly 10 standard pallets. Read our shipping container sizes guide for the full dimensions.

How long does sea freight take from the UK?

Add time for collection, customs and delivery. Routes through the Red Sea and Suez Canal can be diverted around Africa, adding 1–2 weeks. See our sea freight transit times guide.

What does sea freight cost?

Container rates vary a lot with demand, fuel prices and global events. As well as the ocean freight, budget for:

• Origin charges: collection, export customs and terminal handling
• Surcharges: fuel (BAF), currency, peak season and security
• Destination charges: terminal handling, import customs, duties and taxes, and delivery
• Insurance: usually a small percentage of the cargo value

Always ask whether a quote is “port to port” or “door to door”.

Incoterms in plain English

Incoterms decide who pays for what and where the risk transfers:

• EXW (Ex Works): the buyer handles almost everything from the seller’s door
• FOB (Free On Board): the seller pays until the goods are loaded on the ship
• CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight): the seller pays freight and insurance to the destination port
• DAP (Delivered at Place): the seller delivers to the buyer’s address, and the buyer pays import duties
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): the seller pays everything, including duties

Paperwork for exporting from the UK

• EORI number: required for UK businesses moving goods in or out of the UK
• Commercial invoice and packing list
• Commodity codes (HS codes) for each product
• Bill of lading: the shipping contract and title document
• Certificates of origin, licences or permits for some goods and destinations

Choosing a freight forwarder

Look for membership of BIFA (the British International Freight Association), clear all-in quotes, tracking, and experience with your destination country. A good forwarder handles bookings, customs and insurance in one place.

Frequently asked questions