Quick guide for importing goods into the UK from USA
Stephen DAlton 19 July 2026
The USA is currently the UK's largest import partner with £128.8 billion worth of US produced or sourced goods and services having been imported into the UK in 2025. Goods accounted for 47.1% of the total (£60.7 billion).
If you are intending to import goods from USA into the UK there are a number of items you need to be aware of. In this quick guide I will give you an overview of these as well as how you can safely pay your US based supplier in Dollars, Pounds or Euros using GlobalWebPay.
Basic Process
To import goods from USA into the UK you generally need a UK EORI number, an import declaration, and these standard shipment documents:
- Commercial Invoice: Must clearly detail the supplier, buyer, item descriptions, value, currency, and Incoterms.
- Packing List: Summarizes the weight, volume, and packaging details of each box or pallet.
- Bill of Lading (Ocean) or Air Waybill (Air): The transport contract issued by your shipping line or freight forwarder.
- Certificate of Origin: Required if you are claiming preferential trade tariffs.
Key steps:
- Register for an EORI Number: You must obtain an EORI number that starts with 'GB' before any goods arrive. Apply via the UK Government EORI Application.
- Identify Commodity Codes: Find the exact 10-digit commodity code for your goods using the UK Trade Tariff tool to determine your specific duty rate and rule requirements.
- Determine Value and Thresholds: If your goods are valued at £135 or less, customs duty is usually zero, but Import VAT still applies. For goods over £135, both duties and VAT must be paid.
- Manage Customs Declarations: Submit a customs declaration either yourself or through a hired freight forwarder/courier. Couriers like FedEx, UPS, or Royal Mail will contact you with a bill for the duties and VAT before delivering the parcel.
- Check for Restrictions: Specific items (such as weapons, food, plants, and medicines) require special licenses or certificates.
For a more detailed breakdown of the process check out the complete Import goods into the UK: step by step guide which will help you to ensure compliance with product safety, licensing, and border requirements.
Tax and Customs
Importing from USA into the UK requires navigating specific tax and customs regulations. Depending on the value of the items being imported you may be liable to pay UK Customs Duty and Import VAT (typically 20%). Duties and taxes are usually based on the combined value of the goods, shipping costs, and insurance.
Specific considerations include:
- Low Value Goods: For commercial goods or gifts sent from the US valued at £135 or less, Customs Duty is typically not charged but Import VAT may still apply.
- High Value Shipments: For items valued above £135, Customs Duty varies depending on the specific type of product, and 20% standard Import VAT is calculated on the total value of the goods plus shipping and duty costs.
- Excise Goods: Items like alcohol and tobacco are subject to specific excise duties regardless of their value.
To ensure a smooth transition through UK Customs it is important to know the commodity codes, duty rates and value of your goods, as these determine your exact duty rates and VAT liabilities. They, as well as potential restrictions for the items you are bringing into the country, can be determined using the UK Trade Tariff tool.
Additional Documentation
Beyond the core paperwork you may need additional documents or approvals depending on the nature of your shipment:
- Import Licenses/Permits: Required for restricted or controlled goods like animal/plant products, medicines, or chemicals.
- Proof of Insurance: Though not strictly required by customs, it is highly recommended to protect your goods during transit.
- Proof of Preferential Origin: If you are claiming reduced duties under specific UK-US trade measures you must be prepared to submit an origin declaration or documentation proving the goods originated in the US.
Paying Your Supplier
Ensuring that your paperwork is all in order is only part of the import process. You also need to find a safe and trusted method of paying for your goods. That's where GlobalWebPay can help.
GlobalWebPay is a UK based, FCA registered money transfer provider that specializes in fast, low cost international payments. They've been helping customers make international money transfers from the UK since 2010.
When paying suppliers in USA you have the option of sending Dollars, or alternatively making the payment in Euros or Pounds via the Swift network.
With a low flat fee, competitive exchange rates, and no hidden charges, GlobalWebPay is the smarter choice for making personal, business and charitable cross-border payments from the UK.
So, if you are looking to send some money abroad why not SIGN UP with GlobalWebPay today and pay no fee on your first transfer by entering the FEEFREE promo code at Checkout.