Import from China to UK is now a core strategy for many UK-based importers, wholesalers and FMCG distributors. Competitive pricing, huge product ranges and established supply chains make China an attractive sourcing hub. At the same time, UK customs requirements, shipping choices and risk management must be handled carefully if you want profits to be predictable rather than a surprise.

Wigmore Trading works with companies across the UK and wider Africa–UK trade lanes, helping them source, ship and clear goods efficiently. This guide explains what you need to know when you import from China to UK and how a partner like Wigmore Trading can simplify each step.

Understanding the end-to-end import from China to UK

When you import from China to UK, it helps to think in stages rather than a single transaction.

First comes product sourcing and supplier selection. You may find manufacturers on B2B platforms or through trade fairs and networks, but the real work lies in verifying reliability, negotiating prices and confirming who is responsible for quality control. Many businesses use an experienced trading company like Wigmore Trading to handle supplier vetting and on-the-ground checks, reducing the risk of delays or substandard goods.

Next is contracting and Incoterms. Common terms for importing from China to the UK include FOB (Free On Board), CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) and EXW (Ex Works). These define who pays for transport, who arranges insurance and at what point risk transfers from seller to buyer. Choosing the wrong Incoterm can leave you with unexpected inland charges in China or the UK. Wigmore Trading can help you interpret the options and structure terms that match your logistics capabilities and cash flow.

Key costs when you import from China to UK

To protect margins, you need a clear view of all landed costs, not only the factory price.

There is the product cost, which should include packaging and any customisation agreed with the supplier. Then come freight and handling charges for sea or air freight, export handling at the Chinese port or airport, UK port charges and inland haulage to your warehouse.

You must also budget for customs duties and import VAT in the UK. Duty rates depend on the product’s commodity (HS) code and its customs value. Misclassifying goods can result in fines or back-payments, so correct tariff classification is critical. Once goods are cleared, import VAT is usually payable, although many VAT-registered businesses can reclaim this later.

By consolidating shipments, planning container loads and checking tariff codes before you place orders, Wigmore Trading helps clients build an accurate landed cost structure, which supports stronger pricing decisions in wholesale and retail markets.

Shipping options from China to UK

How you ship when you import from China to UK depends on your timelines, order volumes and product type.

Sea freight is the most common option for bulk commodities and FMCG goods. Full container loads (FCL) generally offer the best per-unit cost, while less-than-container loads (LCL) can suit smaller volumes but involve extra handling. Sea freight lead times are longer, so planning inventory and cash flow around sailing schedules is essential.

Air freight is faster, often used for high-value, time-sensitive or lightweight goods. It significantly increases your landed cost but may be justified for urgent replenishment or product launches.

There are also multimodal and rail options that combine sea, rail and road, sometimes offering a middle ground between cost and speed. Wigmore Trading can compare these routes for your product mix and recommend the best solution, balancing urgency, budget and risk.

Compliance and Documentation Requirements

Compliance is a central component of any import from China to UK. Incomplete or inaccurate documentation can result in customs delays, storage fees and reputational risk.

Standard documentation typically includes:

• Commercial invoice detailing product description, value and Incoterms

• Packing list outlining quantities and weights

• Bill of lading or airway bill issued by the carrier

• Any product-specific certificates or conformity documents required under UK regulations

Certain product categories such as food products, cosmetics, electronics and toys may require additional regulatory approvals or testing documentation. Businesses must also hold a valid EORI number to import goods into the UK.

Wigmore Trading assists clients in reviewing documentation before shipment, coordinating with suppliers and freight forwarders to minimise compliance risk. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of unexpected delays at UK ports.

Managing Risk and Quality Control

Risk management is essential when you import from China to UK, particularly for established brands and distributors operating in competitive markets.

Quality control procedures such as factory audits, production monitoring and pre-shipment inspections provide an added layer of protection. Clear contracts and agreed product specifications help prevent disputes and ensure goods meet UK standards.

External risks, including freight rate fluctuations, currency movements and global supply chain disruption, must also be considered. Diversifying suppliers and planning inventory buffers can mitigate exposure. Wigmore Trading supports businesses by coordinating quality checks and advising on practical supply chain safeguards.

Building a Sustainable Import Strategy

Long-term success when importing from China to the UK depends on building structured systems rather than relying on one-off transactions. Businesses benefit from documented procedures covering supplier approval, pricing analysis, compliance checks and logistics planning.

Wigmore Trading integrates sourcing expertise with freight coordination and customs clearance, creating a streamlined framework for repeat imports. This joined-up approach reduces administrative burden while improving reliability and transparency.

For wholesalers, FMCG distributors and international traders, aligning China sourcing with UK market demand is critical. By forecasting volumes accurately and consolidating shipments strategically, businesses can optimise working capital and storage capacity. Wigmore Trading can help design a practical import framework tailored to your industry and product category.

Conclusion

Import from China to UK offers significant commercial opportunity, but only when supported by structured planning, regulatory compliance and accurate cost forecasting. Businesses that approach the process strategically are better positioned to protect margins and maintain supply continuity.

Wigmore Trading can help you manage sourcing, shipping and customs clearance efficiently.

Contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your sourcing and build a resilient China–UK supply chain.