When it comes to shipping to the UK there are certain items that are highly prohibited and restricted. This is especially noted when it comes to drugs and firearms. Controlled drugs such as opium, heroin, cocaine and cannabis are all prohibited from being imported into the UK and if you are caught trying to do so you will face serious consequences. Also firearms and weapons such as gas pistols, electric shock batons and more recently samurai swords are all prohibited from being shipped to the UK. This also includes explosives and fireworks.

The importation laws in the UK have become a lot more stringent, which is why it is important that you understand aspects that you can’t ship to the UK. Indecent/obscene video tapes, films, books, magazines and computer disks are not permitted to be shipped to the UK.

You are also prohibited from bringing certain bulbs and seeds as well as plant parts to the UK; you should check with Overs International to find out if your bulbs etc are prohibited or just subject to restrictions. Most animals and birds and articles derived from protected species are subject to strict restrictions and may not be allowed to be shipped to the UK at all.

With the Customs Regulations and shipping to the UK you are allowed to bring household items and personal effects to the UK free of customs duty and VAT as long as they have been in the owner’s use and possession for at least six months and they are solely for the owner’s use in the UK. Also the customs form C3 must be completed by the owner and then submitted together with a packing list in English. In the case of recent purchases or new items, invoices may be required by Customs and Excise. All wines, spirits, tobacco, cigars, perfumes and any goods which have been owned and used for less than six months must be declared and are subject to Customs duty and VAT.

If you would like more information please feel free to contact the friendly team here at Overs and we will be happy to help in anyway that we can.