Shipping from Australia to the UK in 2025: Simplified guide for businesses

To ship goods from Australia to the UK, businesses must understand customs requirements, prepare the correct documentation, and choose a reliable international shipping service. As Australia’s eighth largest goods trading partner¹, the UK presents significant opportunities across key sectors such as fashion, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, and specialised industrial equipment².

Knowing how to ship to the UK from Australia unlocks business opportunities in one of the world’s most developed and digitally connected markets. For smaller e-commerce ventures and larger import and export businesses alike, gaining a foothold in the UK market means tapping into a customer base that values high-quality Australian products and boasts strong purchasing power.

This article serves as a comprehensive guide to help you navigate seamless shipping from Australia to the UK. We’ll break down the regulations, paperwork requirements, cover free trade agreements that reduce shipping costs, and provide step-by-step instructions. 

Whether you’re new to international shipping or looking to streamline your processes, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to expand your business confidently into the UK market.

Why ship to the UK from Australia

According to Trading Economics, Australian exports to the UK reached US$6.27 billion in 20242, underscoring the strength of this relationship. The range of products shipped spans diverse and specialised sectors, including high-value items like precious stones and metals, advanced machinery, aerospace technology, as well as popular consumer goods such as beverages and food products. 

This diversity reflects the UK market’s demand for quality and innovation, making it an ideal destination for Australian businesses looking to expand into foreign markets. 

How much is shipping from Australia (AUS) to the UK?

The cost of shipping from Australia to the UK depends on factors like size, weight, type of goods, and chosen shipping method. Larger shipments will cost more, certain goods may be subject to customs duties, and faster delivery options will invariably come with higher fees. You can use our online quote tool for an estimate for your shipment.

Often the cheapest ways to send items internationally include slower transit times, limited tracking, and less flexible delivery schedules, which may not suit exporters needing reliable and timely deliveries to maintain customer satisfaction. 

While the price of sending parcels from Australia to the UK may be higher than other destinations, the potential rewards of accessing a sophisticated market with strong consumer spending often make it a worthwhile investment. 

For businesses seeking speed, reliability, and complete visibility, DHL Express offers tailored solutions designed to meet your needs. With our extensive global network, express delivery options, and real-time tracking, you can ensure your shipments from Australia to the UK arrive on schedule every single time.

What are the UK customs duties and import taxes?

In the UK, most imported goods are subject to three types of import charges imposed by the UK customs department:

• Value Added Tax (VAT)
• Customs Import Duty
• Excise Goods Tax (for specific products like alcohol or tobacco)

Import duty and value-added tax (VAT) are normally payable as the goods enter the UK. The import duty is determined from the value of the goods on the commercial invoice, insurance and cost of freight, whereas the VAT is charged on the total including import duty. The standard VAT rate in the UK is 20%, with reduced rates of 5% and 0% for specific goods³. 

Relief may apply in special cases, but most business transactions involving goods and services are subject to VAT and apply equally to locally produced and imported products. As the importer of record, your UK customer is typically responsible for paying these charges. To avoid confusion or negative delivery experiences when sending parcels from Australia, make sure your checkout process or shipping terms clearly explain this.

What is the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement (A-UKFTA)?

The Australia–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UKFTA) is a trade deal designed to reduce or eliminate tariffs on Australian goods exported to the UK.

While most goods entering the UK are subject to import duties and VAT, the A-UKFTA aims to ease this burden for Australian exporters. The agreement is set to eliminate tariffs on over 99% of Australian exports to the UK, making it more cost-effective for businesses to ship a wide range of goods. 

Some items—like wine and Australian chocolate—will see immediate tariff removal, while others such as beef and various food products will benefit from phased reductions over the next 8 to 10 years. 

Although not yet fully in force, the Australia–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement marks a major step forward in creating more competitive and accessible trade between both countries. With removals in tariffs, cheap shipping between Australia and the UK may become more achievable, eliminating a major hurdle for exporters. 

What documents do I need when shipping to the UK?

To ship goods from Australia to the UK smoothly, you need to prepare the following key documents:

• Commercial Invoice: A mandatory document that details the contents, value, and purpose of the shipment. It must include accurate Harmonized System (HS) codes and clearly state the country of origin of each item.
• Packing List: Lists each item in the shipment along with its quantity, weight, and dimensions. This helps customs officials verify the physical contents against the commercial invoice.
• Air Waybill (AWB): A shipping document issued by the carrier that acts as a receipt and contract of carriage. It includes tracking information and delivery terms.
• Certificate of Origin: Confirms the country in which the goods were manufactured. This is especially important for determining eligibility for tariff exemptions under free trade agreements like the A-UKFTA.
• Import Licences or Permits: Required for restricted or controlled items such as certain food products, chemicals, or high-value goods.
• Additional documentation for regulated goods: If you're shipping hazardous materials, perishables, or items subject to health and safety checks (like cosmetics or food), additional declarations or certifications may be required.

Taking the time to prepare accurate and complete documentation helps ensure your shipment clears UK customs without unnecessary delays.

Step-by-step instructions for shipping to the UK from Australia

. Here’s a quick overview to guide your shipping journey from Australia to the UK:

1. Assess your products: Check your goods against the UK’s list of prohibited and restricted items to ensure compliance with both Australian export laws and UK import regulations.
2. Estimate costs and duties: Estimate beforehand how much it will cost to send your shipment from Australia to the UK—including freight charges, import duties, and VAT. Use our online quote tool for a tailored assessment based on your shipment or parcel.
3. Prepare essential documents: Gather all required paperwork, including the commercial invoice with accurate HS codes and country of origin details, packing list, air waybill, and any relevant certificates or permits.
4. Choose your DHL Express service: Select a delivery service that fits your speed and budget requirements. Whether you need express delivery or a more economical option, explore our range of international shipping services.
5. Set up your DHL Express business account: Open a business account to unlock exclusive rates, powerful shipping tools, and streamlined management for regular exports. Set up your account here.
6. Book and track your shipment: Book your shipment through our online portal and monitor its journey in real time using DHL Express’ advanced tracking system—for complete peace of mind from pickup to delivery.

Ship to the UK with DHL Express today

Expanding your business to the UK starts with choosing the right logistics partner. DHL Express offers fast, reliable international delivery from Australia to the UK—backed by decades of worldwide experience and an unmatched commitment to service.

Navigating UK customs can be complex, but DHL Express simplifies the process, reducing delays and stress for your business. We provide complete transparency, control, and expert global logistics advice, giving peace of mind to both you and your customers.

Whether you’re new to cross-border shipping or scaling your e-commerce operations, our dedicated team is ready to support your business growth. Partner with DHL Express today to streamline your international shipping and deliver a seamless experience to your UK customers.

Any regulatory information contained herein is for informational purposes only and DHL assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information. DHL does not provide specific regulatory or legal advice to the public and you are encouraged to seek your own legal or compliance counsel.