Integrated circuits (ICs) sit at the heart of nearly every modern device—from smartphones and servers to vehicles and industrial machinery. For importers, OEMs and distributors, securing a reliable supply of quality ICs at competitive prices is now a strategic priority.

The United Kingdom is an important hub for semiconductor design, specialist manufacturing and value-added trading. Working with a UK-based export partner like Wigmore Trading can help you buy and export integrated circuits efficiently, compliantly and with far less risk.

Why export integrated circuits from the United Kingdom?

The UK’s semiconductor sector is highly specialised, with strong skills in design, R&D and niche manufacturing rather than pure high-volume commodity production. This creates opportunities for buyers looking for:

• High-reliability ICs for automotive, aerospace and industrial automation

• Custom or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)

• Advanced components for telecoms, networking and IoT

Key advantages of sourcing from the UK include:

• Trusted quality and standards – UK suppliers typically work to internationally recognised quality systems (ISO, IATF, etc.).

• Robust IP and contract law – strong protection for intellectual property and commercial agreements.

• Established export links – the UK exports electronic chips globally, with strong flows to Europe, Asia and North America.

With Wigmore Trading managing supplier relationships and export logistics, buyers gain access to this ecosystem without having to build it themselves.

Types of integrated circuits you can source and export

When you export integrated circuits, you are usually dealing with several broad categories, each serving different end markets:

• Analog ICs – signal conditioning, power management, sensors and interfaces.

• Digital ICs – microcontrollers, microprocessors, memory devices, logic ICs.

• Mixed-signal ICs – combining analog and digital functions in a single package.

• Power and driver ICs – motor drivers, DC-DC converters, power management ICs.

Demand is particularly strong from sectors such as consumer electronics, IoT, automotive electronics, industrial automation and healthcare devices, all of which rely heavily on IC content.

Wigmore Trading can help you identify which families, brands and specifications best match your application and budget—whether you need high-volume commodity parts or specialist devices for niche projects.

Compliance and documentation when you export integrated circuits

Because many integrated circuits are dual-use goods (with both civilian and potential military applications), export compliance is critical.

When exporting ICs from the UK you will typically need to consider:

• Correct HS classification – ICs usually fall under HS heading 8542 (integrated circuits and microassemblies).

• Export controls and licensing – high-performance chips, encryption-related devices or components with potential defence applications may require licences under UK and international dual-use regulations.

• Sanctions and end-use checks – ensuring the buyer, final destination and application are not restricted.

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Standard documentation will usually include:

• Commercial invoice and detailed packing list

• Export declarations and (where necessary) export licence details

• Certificate of origin if requested by the importer’s customs

• Any brand-specific conformity or quality certificates

Wigmore Trading can coordinate with freight forwarders, customs brokers and, where needed, compliance advisors so that your export integrated circuits shipment clears smoothly and legally. Wigmore Trading can help.

Shipping and logistics for integrated circuits

Integrated circuits are compact but sensitive. Poor packing or mishandling can easily damage a shipment.

When planning logistics from the UK, key considerations include:

• ESD and moisture protection – use antistatic bags, proper reels and moisture-barrier packaging according to manufacturer guidelines.

• Temperature and handling – avoid extreme conditions; choose carriers with experience in handling electronics.

• Preferred transport modes – most IC shipments move by air freight or express courier due to high value and time sensitivity.

• Insurance – cargo insurance is strongly recommended given the high value-to-weight ratio.

For importers in Africa, the Middle East and other growth markets, Wigmore Trading can consolidate ICs with other UK-sourced goods (IT equipment, networking gear, spare parts) into a single shipment to reduce total freight cost while maintaining proper handling standards.

How Wigmore Trading supports you when you export integrated circuits

Wigmore Trading’s role is to bridge the gap between overseas buyers and the fragmented UK semiconductor and electronics supply base. In practical terms, this can include:

• Supplier sourcing and vetting

  • Identifying reputable UK and EU distributors, traders and manufacturers

  • Checking stock authenticity and traceability, especially for high-value ICs

• Commercial support

  • Negotiating prices, minimum order quantities and lead times

  • Combining orders from multiple suppliers into one export shipment

• Quality and authenticity checks

  • Working only with trusted channels to reduce counterfeit risk

  • Ensuring devices are new, original and within date where specified

• Export compliance and paperwork

  • Preparing or coordinating export declarations, licences and certificates

  • Aligning documentation with your local customs requirements

• End-to-end logistics

  • Arranging collection from multiple UK suppliers

  • Booking air freight or courier services

  • Managing tracking, delivery updates and problem resolution

Instead of dealing with several suppliers and forwarders separately, you work through a single point of contact. This reduces administrative workload and helps you control risk and total landed cost.

Step-by-step: buying and exporting integrated circuits with Wigmore Trading

To make the process straightforward, Wigmore Trading typically follows a clear workflow:

1. Requirements briefing
   Share part numbers, functional requirements, preferred brands, target price, monthly/annual volumes and destination country.

2. Sourcing and quotation
   Wigmore Trading approaches vetted suppliers, checks availability and lead times, and provides a consolidated quote including indicative freight options.

3. Sample or pilot order (optional but recommended)
   For new projects or critical components, a smaller test shipment allows your engineering or quality team to validate performance before committing to volume.

4. Order confirmation and payment terms
   Agree on Incoterms (e.g. FCA, FOB, CIF), payment method and delivery schedule to match your production or resale plans.

5. Packing, export and shipment
   Integrated circuits are packed to electronics standards, customs paperwork is completed, and the shipment is dispatched with tracking details shared.

6. After-sales support
   Support continues after delivery—whether you need repeat orders, alternative equivalents for hard-to-find parts, or help navigating future supply disruptions. Global semiconductor supply chains have experienced volatility and shortages in recent years, making this ongoing support especially valuable.

Why act now?

Demand for integrated circuits continues to grow across multiple sectors, and supply conditions can change quickly. Working with a specialist exporter in the UK helps you:

• Secure reliable sources before markets tighten

• Build relationships with trusted suppliers instead of spot-buying at premium prices

• Reduce compliance and logistics risks that can delay or block shipments

If you are planning to buy and export integrated circuits from the United Kingdom, Wigmore Trading can help you move from enquiry to delivered stock with confidence.