Whether it’s snacks for family, a birthday gift, sending a package from Hong Kong to the UK doesn’t have to be stressful.
This guide will cover how to send a parcel to the UK and address some frequently asked questions about sending packages to the UK. We’ll also cover customs duties, restricted items, timelines, and costs so you can plan your shipment effectively and avoid unexpected issues. Additionally, we’ll explore how international couriers like DHL Express can help facilitate your shipments to ensure a smooth, efficient, and hassle-free experience.
Providing the accurate HS code can ease the customs clearance process for items that are commonly shipped from Hong Kong to the UK, such as:
| Category | Examples | Important Considerations |
|---|---|---|
Fashion & Accessories |
| Check if items contain animal skin or fur, or material subject to CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). |
Electronics Gadgets |
| Generally, it is acceptable to have a notebook computer containing one lithium-ion battery with a capacity of no more than 100Wh, provided the shipment weight does not exceed 5kg. If you are sending a parcel with a battery from any of our Service Points, check out our guide on shipping batteries to ensure your shipment complies with all safety regulations and avoids delays. There are also specific guidelines to follow when shipping hearing aids and Bluetooth earbuds, as these contain batteries. Please contact our specialists for more information. |
Food & Dried Goods |
| Typically, personal shippers cannot send fresh items, liquids, or perishables that require temperature control. However, if you need to ship these items that require special handling, it is best to consult our DHL Express experts. Before sending food to the UK, please contact DHL Express HK for pre-approval. Be aware of potential import restrictions on certain food types (e.g., meat, dairy, or specific plant products) due to health and safety regulations. Ensure all food items are commercially packaged and sealed. |
Gifts & Household Items |
| Generally straightforward, but always ensure proper labeling and packaging for fragile items. |
Medicine classified under “pharmaceutical products” or “drugs” is under license control and prohibited from shipments sent by private individuals. Only manufacturers with valid export licenses issued by the drug office are allowed to send medication by post to the UK.
Shipping vitamins and supplements from Hong Kong to the UK is generally allowed unless the products fall into the classifications. To find out more about which classifications may restrict or prohibit your shipment, you can refer to this overview of Hong Kong’s health supplement regulations. . If in doubt, please approach the DHL Express team for assistance.
It's important to understand the intricacies of customs duties when shipping to the UK from Hong Kong. The UK charges VAT (Value Added Tax) and customs duties on parcels with a declared value over £135 (approximately HKD 1,350), and for gifts over £391.
As the sender, you must accurately declare product descriptions and values on your customs forms.If you are unsure about the requirements or need assistance with documentation, DHL Express offers dedicated support for customs paperwork and compliance, helping to prevent unexpected delays and charges associated with international shipping.
Proper package preparation is crucial to ensure your items arrive safely and efficiently. The basics of preparing your package for international shipping include using strong outer packaging and proper internal cushioning to protect contents from movement and impact during transit. However, do not seal the package as Service Point staff will need to conduct a security check before final sealing.
Adhering to these packing basics helps ensure a smooth shipping experience. For more detailed packing information, refer to our packaging guide.
The time it takes to send a parcel from Hong Kong to the UK may vary depending on your choice of courier and transportation. Sea shipments are generally slower and may take up to a few months to arrive, while air shipments typically take a few days.
If your shipment is urgent we recommend sending your parcel by air, which will take about 1-3 days via DHL Express. You may check the specific lead time for your shipment on MyDHL+.
When looking for a reliable courier service to the UK, DHL Express makes shipping internationally as seamless as possible with our:
DHL Express offers exceptional speed with express options that can get your parcel from Hong Kong to the UK in as little as 1–3 working days. We also offer Time Definite Services, such as Express 9:00, Express 10:30, and Express 12:00, which are ideal for urgent shipments or for businesses prioritizing quick delivery for customer satisfaction. These services provide reliable door-to-door delivery on the next possible business day, precisely by your chosen time.
For added convenience, DHL Express provides free packaging at its ServicePoints when you use the Express Easy service. This simplifies the packing basics for your shipment, ensuring your items are well-protected for international shipping.
With On-Demand Delivery (ODD), recipients in the UK can manage their delivery options flexibly. This includes choosing to reschedule, redirect to a different address, or arrange for pick-up, enhancing the recipient's convenience and satisfaction.
Navigating UK customs duties and regulations can be complex, but DHL Express provides expert customs support, guiding you through the necessary paperwork and compliance requirements to minimize delays and ensure smooth clearance for your parcel.
DHL Express offers comprehensive, real-time tracking from the moment you prepare your package until it reaches its final destination. This transparent tracking gives both senders and recipients complete visibility and peace of mind throughout the entire shipping journey. For even greater control and detailed insights, DHL ShipNow also provides robust tracking features and other helpful tools to manage your shipments efficiently.
If you are a personal shipper looking for an economical international shipping option from Hong Kong to the UK, consider visiting DHL Express ServicePoints to use Express Easy — a one-stop international delivery service that includes free and easy-to-use packaging for shipments between 0.5kg and 25kg.
If you have a Business Registration Number, you may sign up for a DHL Express Business Account and enjoy offers on regular shipping.
Certain items, such as illegal goods, firearms, and some animal products (e.g., ivory), are strictly prohibited. Restricted items, such as certain electronic devices containing lithium batteries or specific food products, may require special documentation or pre-approval. Always check with our customer service team or Service Pto confirm specific restrictions before attempting to send a package with these items to the UK.
When sending a parcel from Hong Kong to the UK, you typically need a commercial invoice that accurately describes the goods, their value, and the country of origin. An Air Waybill (AWB) is also essential, serving as a contract of carriage and providing shipment details. Depending on the item, additional licenses or certificates might be required. Providing accurate documentation is crucial for the smooth clearance of UK customs duties.
Yes. If your gift is worth £39 or less, you will not have to pay VAT or customs duty. If it’s worth over £39 but no more than £135, you will need to pay VAT but no customs duty. If the gift’s value exceeds £135, both customs duty and other import taxes may apply. It’s crucial to declare the item as a gift and state its accurate value to avoid any issues. For the latest and most comprehensive information on gift import rules and customs charges, it's best to refer to the official UK government guidelines.
1 - GOV.UK, Accessed 1 July
Share
