Shipping Costs from UK to China: Royal Mail vs. Couriers

Sending a parcel from the UK to China: prices vary by weight, speed, tracking, and carrier.

Royal Mail (Most Accessible)

• International Standard (untracked): From £6.40 (≤1 kg). No liability. 3–4 weeks.
• International Tracked & Signed: From £9.05 (≤1 kg). Tracked, signature, £50 compensation. 5–7 working days.
• International Tracked: From £8.15 (≤1 kg). Tracked, no signature, £50 comp. 5–7 days.

Max weight: 2 kg (Standard), 5 kg (Tracked). Size limits: 90 cm max dimension, 2 m length+girth.

Couriers (Faster, Reliable, Pricier)

• DHL Express: £25–45 (≤1 kg), 2–3 days, customs handling included
• UPS Express Saver: £30–50, 2–3 days
• FedEx International Connect: £20–40, 3–5 days (economy)
• Parcelforce Global Priority: £35–55, 3–5 days (Royal Mail partner)

Money-Saving Tips

• Compare on Parcel2Go, ParcelMonkey, Interparcel
• Consolidate multiple items into one shipment
• Use own packaging (courier boxes cost extra)
• Declare value accurately—underdeclaring risks seizure
• Consider economy services (DHL eCommerce, FedEx Connect) for non-urgent

Customs

CN22 (≤£270) or CN23 (>£270) form required. China thresholds: ¥5,000 (~£550) duty-free for personal imports. Commercial shipments need HS codes, invoices, possibly licenses.