Shipping to the United Kingdom: The Complete Post-Brexit Guide for Businesses and Private Individuals

Since 1 January 2021, with the definitive entry into force of Brexit, the United Kingdom has become a fully-fledged non-EU country. This means that shipping to the United Kingdom now requires the completion of specific customs formalities, the filing of export declarations and, in many cases, the payment of duties and VAT. IWS Srl, thanks to its direct branch in Chelmsford, offers comprehensive support for navigating this new logistical and regulatory complexity.

Our Shipping Service to the United Kingdom

Our IWS branch in Chelmsford (CM1 1GS) represents a strategic hub for efficiently managing all import/export operations between Italy and Great Britain. Our services include:

• Import Service for Businesses and Private Individuals: Complete door-to-door shipment management, with assistance for customs documentation.
• E-commerce Service: Logistics solutions for those selling online in the UK, including VAT management for orders under £135.
• Standard and Express Shipments: Flexibility in transit times based on the client's urgency.
• Local Distribution: Partnerships with the best British couriers for fast and trackable deliveries.
• Import Licences and B2B Service: Support for Italian companies requiring a registered importer in the UK.
• Import and Events for Sensible Wine Service: Dedicated logistics for industry events and trade fairs in the United Kingdom.

Customs and Documents: What You Need to Ship to the UK

To avoid goods being held up in customs, it is essential to prepare the documentation correctly. Every shipment must be accompanied by a Commercial Invoice (for sales) or a Pro-forma Invoice (for gifts or samples), clearly indicating the value of the goods, a detailed description of the products and the relevant customs code (HS Code). Furthermore, for businesses it has become essential to hold a valid EORI Code (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) in both Italy and the United Kingdom.

Wine Shipping to the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom represents one of the most important markets for Italian wine, but the post-Brexit export of alcoholic beverages requires particular attention. Wine shipping to the United Kingdom is subject to the payment of specific excise duties upon entry into British territory. IWS manages the entire process: from temperature-controlled transport to preserve product quality, through to customs clearance and the payment of excise duties, offering a turnkey service for both wineries (B2B) and private individuals (B2C).

Why Choose IWS for Your Shipments to the UK?

Facing the challenges of Brexit need not be a brake on your business. With IWS you have at your side a logistics partner that is fully conversant with the new customs regulations and has an operational structure directly on British soil. This translates into faster shipments, transparent costs and zero bureaucratic stress.

Do you need to ship to the United Kingdom and require support with customs? Contact our head office in La Morra (CN) on +39 0173 500426, or write to our English branch for a personalised quote.