UK based freight forwarder, Mercator’s import team were recently tasked with a shipment via LCL from Canada to the UK. The customer purchased the goods on an EXW (ex-works) basis, meaning they were responsible for the full shipment journey, door to door.
In conjunction with our partner agent (thanks to our founding membership of MarcoPoloLine – the freight forwarder network), we arranged collection from the supplier in Canada, transport to the port and LCL from Canada to the UK. The goods were packed over 3 pallets, and due to the nature of the goods (empty whiskey barrels), were shipped as non-stack, meaning no goods were to be stacked on top of them on the journey to the UK.
LCL sea freight is calculated by per cubic metre, or by tonne, whichever is greater. This means if you have a pallet measuring 1m x 1m x 1m – 1CBM, it can be up to 1,000kg in weight and the sea freight will be calculated by 1CBM.
Our partner agent in Canada completed the collection of the pallets, delivery to port for export, and booked the space for LCL from Canada to the UK. The cargo routed from Montreal to Southampton, taking 14 days port to port. When calculating sea freight LCL transit times, it is best to add on about 1 week either side of departure and arrival for loading, customs, and unloading.
Once the container arrived in the UK and was unpacked, our team completed the customs clearance, settling any import VAT and duties with HMRC directly. As an AEO appointed company, Mercator has been audited by HMRC, proving certain standards in tax and customs compliance, customs record keeping, practical standards of competence, and financial security. On a practical note, customs clearing goods with an AEO accredited clearance agent, means you and your company can benefit from efficient and compliant customs controls and procedures for both imports and exports.
Once cleared at the port, we arranged delivery to the UK importer’s door on a vehicle with a tail lift as the importer did not have access to a forklift truck at the delivery site.
If you have a shipment for LCL from Canada to the UK, get in touch with our team who will be glad to provide you with a quote. Whether you have purchased on EXW, FOB or even CFR/CIF, our team can assist you with your shipment. To request a quote you can call our team (+44) 02392 756 575, email sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk or complete the form below and we will be in touch.
