Trade Routes
Shipping from India to the UK: Ocean & Air Freight Guide
6 min read
The UK remains a strong market for Indian goods. Cargo routes via the Suez Canal to UK container ports, with air freight available for urgent shipments.
Routes and ports
Exports typically depart Nhava Sheva or Mundra for UK gateways such as Felixstowe, Southampton or London Gateway. Onward distribution is by road across Great Britain.
Typical transit times
- Ocean FCL: approximately 18 to 30 days, depending on routing and transhipment.
- Air freight: generally 2 to 5 days to London or other UK airports.
UK import requirements
- The UK importer needs an EORI number (GB EORI).
- Customs declarations are required post-Brexit; UKCA or CE marking may apply to certain goods.
- ISPM-15 treated wood packaging is required.
- Standard commercial documents and certificate of origin where applicable.