Mercator, UK based freight forwarder, was recently assigned an export sea freight shipment of a 40’ flat rack container for shipping to Canada.

Loading a Flat Rack for Export

Our UK based customer sold their goods on a CIF incoterm to their buyer in Canada.  CIF (Cost Insurance Freight) means that the exporter is responsible for loading the goods, transport to the export sea freight port, freight to the agreed port at destination and the insurance for the transport.

Flat Rack Container Loaded for export
Export Shipment Lashed for Sea Freight Shipping

George in our export team arranged for the loading and lashing of the goods onto a 40’ flat rack container.  The machinery for sea freight shipping was loaded on to a flat rack container because the pieces had to be lifted in to place by a crane.

Haulage to Port for UK Export

Once the flat rack was loaded, secured and covered, George arranged for one of our trusted haulage providers to collect the shipping container and transport it to the Port of Felixstowe for sea freight shipping to Canada.

Flat Rack Container for Export – Machinery Loaded
Export Machinery Loaded and Covered for Sea Freight to Canada

Sea Freight Shipping to Canada

Mercator handled the UK export customs clearance, VGM at the port and sea freight to Canada.  Once the shipment arrived in Canada, our MarcoPoloLine partner agent based in Vancouver acted as the main point of contact to enable the final delivery of the machinery to the importer’s door in Canada.

Although in this instance we did not arrange the marine insurance, this is something that we are able to offer our customers as part of our shipping service.

If you have either an export shipment to Canada, or a shipment which requires the use of a flat rack container, please get in touch with our team who will be able to provide you with a quotation for your shipping.  You can call our office on (+44) 02392 756 575, email sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk, or complete the form below and someone will be in touch with you shortly.

Request a Quote for Shipping to Canada

What is a Certificate of Origin?

A Certificate of Origin (CO) proves the origin of a product and acts as a declaration for customs or commercial reasons.  A CO confirms that a product has been wholly obtained, manufactured or processed in a certain country.

Why do you need a Certificate of Origin?

You may require a CO if you are exporting your UK manufactured product and you have been asked for one by your buyer.  They may request this document in order to take advantage of reduced tariffs on import customs clearance, subject to trade agreements between countries/regions – this is known as preferential.

A non-preferential CO may be used due to policy measures, which could be anti-dumping measures, trade embargoes or safety measures.

How do I obtain a Certificate of Origin for Export?

Your freight forwarder can handle the production of a Certificate of Origin for you.  Mercator liaises with our local office to apply for Certificates of Origin regularly on our clients’ behalf.  If we are handling your export shipment for you, then we can assist you with the production of the CO.

What documents do I need to provide for a Certificate of Origin?

To apply for a CO for export from the UK you will need to present these documents: commercial invoice, address of the manufacturer, packing list, letter of authority, proof of origin if goods are manufactured outside the UK.

How long does it take to get a Certificate of Origin?

Generally the process of obtaining a CO for export shipping from the UK is a couple of days.  If the request is urgent, we can expedite the process by personally attending the office producing the certificate.

My shipment has already sailed, can I still get a Certificate of Origin?

Yes.  Alongside the usual paperwork required for the CO, all your freight forwarder will need to provide to the office drawing up the certificate is a copy of the airway bill or bill of landing.  Make sure you appoint a reputable freight forwarder to handle your UK export shipment, they will advise you from the start what you require for your shipment and will have the capabilities to handle it all for you as well.

If you have an export shipment you need a quote for, please contact us, we will be pleased to assist you.  Our office is open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm: (+44) 02392 756 575; sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk; or complete the form below and we will be in touch.

Contact us for a UK Export Quote

Export Air Freight to India – A Case Study

Freight forwarder Mercator was asked to arrange the export air freight of 40 crates of engineering equipment. The export freight was collected from door in the UK and delivered to the airline at London Heathrow airport. Mercator also handled the export customs clearance, ensuring all paperwork was present and correct, and the customs clearance had completed ahead of the scheduled departure.

Export Air Freight

The goods were delivered to the airline, ready for screening and to be loaded onto the aircraft, in this instance the shipment was air freighted to Qatar on multiple passenger aircraft flights. Once in Qatar, the export air freight continued its journey to Mumbai on one single freighter aircraft.

Crated Engineering Equipment for Export
Export Air Freight to India

Exporting Engineering Equipment

The UK exports a significant amount of engineering equipment and machinery around the world. Whether you have a consignment which is time sensitive and needs to transit via air freight for speed, or you have an oversized, out of gauge piece of machinery which needs extra care and attention when arranging the export sea freight, Mercator’s team is well placed to handle the process for you. We have been arranging UK imports and exports since founding in 1991. Our freight forwarding services cover all modes (air, sea & road freight) and all industries. We can even handle dangerous goods.

Your Export Freight Partner

Contact our export freight team today for a quote or discuss your export shipping requirements, we will be glad to assist. Please email us Sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk or telephone: (+44) 02392 756 575. Alternatively complete the form below and someone will be in touch shortly.

Request an Export Shipping Quote

What is an EUR1 certificate?

An EUR1 is a document which allows reduced or zero duty rates when importing into certain countries due to a trade agreement between the UK and participating countries.

Which countries are covered by the EUR1 preferential trade agreement?

Currently the countries with a trade agreement that can utilize an EUR1 certificate are: Antigua and Barbuda; Barbados; Bahamas; Belize; Botswana; Chile; Colombia; Costa Rica; Dominica; Dominican Republic; Ecuador; Egypt; El Salvador; Faroe Islands; Eswatini; Fiji; Georgia; Grenada; Guatemala; Guyana; Honduras; Iceland; Israel; Ivory Coast; Jamaica; Jordan; Kenya; Kosovo; Lebanon; Lesotho; Liechtenstein; Mauritius; Mexico; Morocco; Mozambique; Namibia; Nicaragua; North Macedonia; Norway; Palestine; Panama; Papua New Guinea; Peru; Serbia; Seychelles; St Christopher and Nevis; St Lucia; St Vincent and The Grenadines; South Africa; Switzerland; Trinidad and Tobago; Tunisia; Ukraine; Vietnam; and Zimbabwe.

How do I know if my goods are covered by an EUR1?

In order to qualify for an EUR1 your goods must ‘originate’ in the UK for exports.  For UK imports, the goods must ‘originate’ from one of the countries listed above – the process of supplying an EUR1 will usually be the responsibility of the “shipper” (i.e. the exporter at origin).

Will my shipment qualify for zero or partial duty rates?

This is entirely dependent on the nature of the goods that you are exporting.  You can check your tariff code of the goods here

How do I get an EUR1?

For UK exports to an EUR1 country your freight forwarder will be able to handle the process of obtaining an EUR1 certificate.  A reputable freight forwarder such as Mercator will have the necessary contacts and ability to apply to create movement certificates.

How long does it take to get an EUR1?

Mercator can fast track your application and pick up the EUR1 from the local issuing office if it is an urgent request.  We have a good relationship with our local office that issues EUR1s, generally they are dispatched via post to us and we handle the process from then on.

What documents do I need to submit an EUR1?

Generally you will require a commercial invoice, packing list and a signed letter of authority to give permission for your freight forwarder to apply for an EUR1 on your behalf.  This is something that Mercator can assist you with.

My shipment has already sailed, what can I do?

It is possible in some circumstances to retrospectively apply for an EUR1, you will need to supply the documents showing the transit – i.e. a bill of lading or an airway bill.  It is best to make sure you have appointed a reputable freight forwarder to handle your export, they will make sure you are aware of any preferential agreements you can take advantage of such as EUR1s.

If you are looking for a freight forwarder to handle your UK exports and EUR1 certificates, contact Mercator for a quote and to find out how our services can benefit you and your business. We are contactable Monday-Friday 9am-5pm: +44 (0) 2392 756 575; sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk; or complete the form below and we will be in touch.

Contact us for an Export or EUR1 quote

Exporting Machinery From the UK – A Comprehensive Guide

Are you an exporter of machinery from the UK?  Exporting machinery to other countries can be a complex and time-consuming process.  However, with the right knowledge and expertise, it is possible to navigate your way through customs regulations and other paperwork.

At Mercator, we are here to provide guidance on all aspects of exporting machinery from the UK.  We have years of experience in this field and our team is ready to answer any questions you may have on the subject.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explain all the necessary steps you need to take in order to successfully export your machinery from the UK.  We will also provide helpful tips and advice that can make the process easier and more straightforward.  So if you’re looking for an expert guide on exporting machinery from the UK, then you’ve come to the right place!

The Basics of Exporting Machinery From the UK

Exporting machinery from the UK can be a complex process and requires careful planning.  Whether you are shipping large machines or smaller components, there are a number of factors to consider, from the cost of transport to the safety of your goods.

By understanding the basics of exporting machinery, you can ensure that your consignments reach their international destination as quickly and as safely as possible.  Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

Appointing a freight forwarder like Mercator to handle your machinery exports, can make this list less of a headache, we have the necessary experience here in the UK to export machinery, and also the relevant contacts around the world for your exports onward journey and customs clearance at destination.

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Understanding the Regulations and Requirements for Machinery Exports

When exporting machinery from the UK, it’s essential to understand the requirements in order to ensure the successful shipment of your products. These regulations are set by the UK government and must be adhered to in order to get your machinery across international borders.

It’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork in order before exporting your machinery.  This includes detailed product specifications and descriptions, as well as full records of testing and quality assurance certificates.  Additionally, all relevant transport documentation such as bills of lading must also be completed correctly before shipment takes place (typically handled by your freight forwarder).

Finally, exporters must also pay attention to country-specific requirements or restrictions when shipping their goods overseas.  Appointing a well connected freight forwarder with links across the globe can ease the difficulty of doing this by linking you directly with an agent at destination.

What Documentation Is Required for the Transportation of Machinery?

Transporting machinery from the UK requires various forms of documentation in order to be successful and compliant with local laws. Below are the documents you will typically need:

Export Documentation

This includes an export declaration form (C88) and commercial invoice. Your freight forwarder will generally handle the paperwork associated with exports, ensure you select one that has direct links with the ports and shipping lines such as Mercator.

Transport Documentation

You will need to provide the correct information to your freight forwarder, such as details relating to packing, palletisation and loading/unloading positions on both ends of the journey. A detailed bill of lading also needs to be created to confirm receipt of goods by all parties involved, this will be handled by your freight forwarder.

Additional Documents

You may need additional documents depending on your location, such as an ATA Carnet for temporary imports or a Certificate of Origin for certain preferential trade agreements between countries.  If you are unsure about any requirements, it is important to contact a knowledgeable freight forwarder such as Mercator who can help you navigate all necessary paperwork.

What Shipping Methods Are Preferred for Exporting Machinery?

When you are exporting machinery from the UK, there are three main shipping methods to consider – air freight, sea freight and road freight.

Air Freight

Air freight is the fastest option of the three, but it is also the most expensive. It is ideal when you need to transport your machinery within a short period of time or when it is a valuable item that needs speedy delivery.

Sea Freight

Sea freight offers cost-efficient transportation of large and heavy items. It will take longer than air freight, but you will benefit from lower shipping costs and the ability to ship multiple items at once.

Road Freight

Road freight is a third option if your export is to mainland Europe.  Similar to sea freight, it can be cost-efficient for larger pieces of machinery, or if you have multiple items to ship at once.

The right shipping method depends on your individual needs – contact us at Mercator and we can provide guidance on which method will work best for you.

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How Can Mercator Help With Exporting Machinery From the UK?

If you’re looking for an experienced team of professionals to guide you through the process of exporting machinery from the UK, look no further than Mercator. As a UK-based freight forwarder we can help you navigate the complex steps associated with international shipping and ensure your move is completed safely and efficiently.

Mercator provides customised solutions that take into consideration your individual needs when it comes to exporting machinery from the UK.  Our team will handle paperwork, make the bookings with the hauliers, shipping lines, air freight carriers, connections to the agents in the destination country, as well as all shipping details such as insurance, customs clearance and transit times.

In addition to offering comprehensive services for exporters, Mercator specialises in providing local knowledge that is essential for successful international trade.  Our experienced staff leverages their deep understanding of global markets—including common trade routes—to ensure that your cargo reaches its destination safely and on time.  With decades of experience transporting goods around the world, Mercator can provide you with unbeatable service when it comes to exporting machinery from the UK.

Get in touch

Exporting machinery from the UK can be a complex process.  Therefore, it is essential that exporters consult with a logistics service provider with extensive experience in international trade such as Mercator, as well as an expert in the industry, to ensure a successful and smooth transportation of goods.

At Mercator, we offer our clients years of experience and industry-leading services to ensure streamlined exporting of machinery from the UK. Contact us today to get started.

Get a Quote for Exporting Machinery from the UK

If you’re a UK based manufacturer, you may have recently seen an increase in the demand for your goods overseas. Perhaps you haven’t exported your goods before, or have only done it a few times. It will seem like a daunting task, but that’s why it is a good idea to appoint a Freight Forwarder to handle your export shipment for you.

Mercator Cargo is a UK based Freight Forwarder, we have been running for over 20 years, and are still managed and run by the same family. We are a small team of experts in international shipping. Our dedicated export department can assist you in exporting your goods to almost anywhere in the world.

The Government has been saying for some time that international trade (particularly exports) will help the UK economy grow. Now is the perfect time to take that first step into the international trade arena and start exporting your UK manufactured goods. International trade can massively boost a small to medium sized company.

The UK has had a few exposed years in terms of media coverage, what with the London 2012 Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the Royal Wedding and so on. As such, there is a greater demand in the world marketplace for UK branded goods.

According to the Office of National Statistics, the export market for the UK for the second quarter of 2013 has been the highest on record (at £78.4bn). If you think your company would like a slice of this huge potential, then perhaps it is time to seriously consider exporting your goods worldwide.

If you are in the stage of arranging some international sales, then it is always a good idea to also tempt your buyers by offering freight included (this can be seen as favourable as it would reduce their workload).  We can offer a range of services, from just freight, to a full door to door service.

Give one of our sales team a call today to get a quote for your shipment – Tel. 02392 756 575. Email: sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk.

 

Request a Quote for Exporting from the UK

Mercator Cargo handle regular air freight and sea freight shipments as exports to South Africa.  The most common export goods are technical products such as precision engineered machinery, accessories and various hazardous chemicals.

As an independent freight forwarder, Mercator also sees seasonal exports, such as Gliders during the southern hemisphere summer period.  These are usually shipped from Europe to South Africa under temporary export to take advantage of the good weather.

In order to import goods into South Africa, either yourself, or the end user must be registered with South African customs.

As part of a global network of freight forwarders, we have a very reliable and solid partner in South Africa who is able to give guidance on customs procedures.  Our freight forwarding services range from delivery to door in South Africa, assistance with customs clearance, unpacking and other procedures.

So if you’re looking for an experienced freight forwarder to manage your export shipment to South Africa, email or call us – Tel. 02392 756 575. Email: sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk.

 

Request a Quote for Shipping to South Africa