Shipping Guide
Sea Freight from China to UK: Routes, Ports & Transit Times
Quick Answer
Sea freight from China to UK takes 28-40 days port-to-port. Felixstowe is the main UK gateway. FCL is most economical for large volumes, LCL for smaller shipments.
Key Takeaways
- Transit: 28-40 days port-to-port
- Main port: Felixstowe (40% UK trade)
- FCL more economical for large volumes
- LCL for smaller shipments
- Book 3-4 weeks ahead
- Door-to-door adds 5-10 days
Major Routes
| Origin | UK Port | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Felixstowe | 28-32 days |
| Ningbo | Felixstowe | 28-32 days |
| Shenzhen | Felixstowe | 30-35 days |
| Shanghai | Southampton | 32-36 days |
| Shenzhen | London Gateway | 30-34 days |
UK Ports
- Felixstowe: Largest UK port, most sailings, efficient
- Southampton: Southern England, fast clearance
- London Gateway: Growing port, modern facilities
- Liverpool: Northern UK option
Container Options
- 20ft GP: Standard, 25-28 CBM
- 40ft GP: Double volume, 55-58 CBM
- 40ft HC: High cube, 65-68 CBM
- LCL: Shared container, charged per CBM
FCL vs LCL
| Factor | FCL | LCL |
|---|---|---|
| Volume | 15+ CBM | Under 15 CBM |
| Cost | Per container | Per CBM |
| Handling | Single shipment | Consolidated |
| Transit | Same | May add 3-5 days |
Booking Tips
- Book 3-4 weeks ahead
- Confirm departure/arrival dates
- Prepare customs documents early
- Consider port options for delivery
- Factor in UK peak season
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Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Sea freight from China to UK typically takes 28-40 days port-to-port, depending on origin port and routing. Shanghai to Felixstowe is the fastest at 28-32 days.
Felixstowe handles about 40% of UK container trade and has the most frequent sailings from China. Southampton and London Gateway are alternatives.
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