Sea Freight Services to the USA
Transatlantic Shipping: UK to the United States
The UK-US trade lane is one of the world’s busiest and most regulated. Whether you are exporting machinery to the Midwest or consumer goods to the East Coast, you need a logistics partner who understands the strict compliance requirements of the US market. Errors in documentation, such as a late ISF filing, result in immediate and heavy fines from CBP.
Shipping International provides direct Sea Freight services to all major US ports. We manage the entire process, from securing slot space on Transatlantic vessels to arranging the final inland delivery via US rail or truck.
Routes and Transit Times: East Coast vs. West Coast
The US is vast. Choosing the correct port of discharge significantly impacts your transit time and inland haulage costs.
East Coast and Gulf (USEC/USGC)
This is the fastest route from the UK.
- Key Ports: New York/New Jersey (NY/NJ), Norfolk, Savannah, Charleston, Houston.
- Transit Time: Approximately 12 to 18 days port-to-port.
- Best For: Delivery to the Eastern Seaboard, the Midwest (via rail from NY or Norfolk), and the Southern States.
West Coast (USWC)
Shipping to California or the Pacific Northwest takes longer due to the distance.
- All-Water Service: Vessels transit via the Panama Canal. Transit time is approximately 28 to 35 days.
- Landbridge Service: Cargo is discharged on the East Coast and railed across the continent. This is faster (approx. 20-25 days) but more expensive.
- Key Ports: Los Angeles, Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle.
Mandatory US Customs Compliance
The US enforces security protocols strictly. We handle these data submissions to ensure your cargo is not flagged or penalised.
ISF 10+2 (Importer Security Filing)
You must submit the ISF to US Customs at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel in the UK. This filing includes 10 data points from the importer and 2 from the carrier.
Risk: Failure to file on time results in a minimum $5,000 fine and a "Do Not Load" order. We manage this submission on your behalf.
Automated Manifest System (AMS)
We submit the cargo manifest details to CBP prior to sailing. This allows US authorities to screen the shipment for security risks while it is still at sea.
Customs Bonds
Every commercial shipment entering the US requires a Customs Bond to guarantee payment of duties and taxes.
- Single Entry Bond: For one-off shipments.
- Continuous Bond: Cost-effective for regular importers (typically more than 3 shipments per year).
Service Scope: FCL and LCL Solutions
We tailor the shipping method to your inventory needs.
Full Container Load (FCL)
We offer 20ft, 40ft, and 40ft High Cube containers. We negotiate contracts with major alliances (2M, Ocean Alliance) to secure space during peak seasons. For heavy industrial goods, we provide Open Top and Flat Rack equipment for Out-of-Gauge (OOG) transport.
Less-than-Container Load (LCL)
For smaller shipments, we run weekly consolidation services to major hubs like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Your cargo shares space with other goods, reducing your cost. We handle the deconsolidation at the destination warehouse.
Specialised Cargo: FDA and Hazardous Goods
Certain commodities face additional regulatory hurdles.
FDA Prior Notice
If you ship food, beverages, or pharmaceuticals, you must file "Prior Notice" with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before arrival. We coordinate this filing to prevent goods from being held at the port for inspection.
Dangerous Goods (DG)
We ship hazardous materials in compliance with the IMDG Code and US Title 49 CFR. We ensure all labelling and placarding meet US Department of Transportation standards before the container leaves the UK.
Expand your business into the US market with confidence. Shipping International ensures your ISF filings are accurate and your cargo moves efficiently across the Atlantic. Contact us today for a reliable shipping quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ISF 10+2 filing?
The Importer Security Filing (ISF) is a US Customs requirement. Importers must electronically submit 10 specific data elements (such as buyer, seller, manufacturer, and ship-to party) 24 hours before the vessel loads at the port of origin. Failure to do so leads to heavy fines.
Do I need a US Customs Bond?
Yes. A Customs Bond is mandatory for all commercial sea freight imports to the US valued over $2,500. It guarantees that duties and fees will be paid. We can help you secure a Single Entry Bond or a Continuous Bond, depending on your volume.
How long does shipping take from the UK to New York?
The transit time from UK base ports (Felixstowe, Southampton, Liverpool) to New York is typically 12 to 15 days port-to-port. Door-to-door times depend on customs clearance and the final delivery location.
Can you handle DDP shipments to the USA?
Yes, but DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) to the US can be complex. The UK seller effectively becomes the "Importer of Record" and may need a foreign importer bond. We often recommend DAP (Delivered at Place), where the US buyer handles the import formalities, but we can manage DDP if required.
What is a "Landbridge" service?
Landbridge involves shipping cargo by sea to the US East Coast and then transporting it by rail to the West Coast. This is often faster than the "All Water" route through the Panama Canal, though it can be more expensive.
