Imagine you have an upcoming wedding and ordered a new dress from eBay that came with a hole. What now?
After Brexit, many consumers were afraid to shop from oversea online retailers due to the newly implemented changes that impacted import duty and VAT. Many UK shoppers were also unsure whether to order anything from the USA due to possible complications and costs of returning a parcel if something didn’t fit them.
To prove to you that there is no reason to be scared, we will cover:
- Different deals courier companies offer for shipping from the UK to the US
- Different couriers one can use when returning a parcel
- Import duty and VAT charges when returning a parcel to the US
- Documents you will need to send back the parcel
- How can you reclaim your duties once you return the parcel
So let’s not dwindle anymore and dive right in.
Different deals courier companies offer
International delivery services have never been more diverse regarding shipping than now. With express couriers offering amazing deals for smaller or larger packages, usually up to 30kg, how can one refuse to indulge in their services?
This section will cover express couriers who have become a staple in the delivery world.
What are express couriers?
They are couriers, such as FedEx, DHL, and UPS, who offer faster shipping. Depending on the time frame you need something to be returned, express couriers might be your best choice.
Express shipping is the fastest way to ship a parcel from a pickup point to a delivery point. Or, in this case, organise a return.
However, be mindful that in case you are using this service, the retailer is not under an obligation to cover the cost of the return if you choose the overnight or one-day shipping method. They can consider it, especially if you are in a time crunch and need the item replaced if it was faulty.
Most retailers have their return policy. This means that if the item were not faulty or damaged in any way, in most cases, you would need to pay for the return, and it can cost you a pretty penny.
What is the usual return time?
Each express courier company offers their own delivery time. If you need to pay for the return, you will have multiple options for a date range alongside the prices.
The following delivery times are available from UK express couriers to the US:
- Overnight (arrives next business day)
- 1-2 business days
- 3-5 business days
- 7-14 business days
With this in mind, the usual return time for most UK couriers to ship to the US is three to five business days.
The good thing is that the UK express couriers offer to cover all the customs charges (including import taxes and duties) for you if you need them to. So, when your package arrives in the US, it can pass through customs fast, without any delays.
What are the shipping costs to the US?
Imagine you ordered a fabulous pair of shoes. They came, however, the colour is nothing like it was in the picture, so you would like to return them.
Every retailer has its own return policy. For example, if you wish to return an item you bought from eBay, you should check their return policy, as they may differ for each seller. Sometimes you will need to pay for the return shipping if the item is not damaged.
So, how much will it cost you?
There are a couple of factors that can impact the shipping price of the package, which include:
- The weight and size of the parcel
- The time you wish the parcel to be delivered in
- Destination
- The express services you choose
So, for instance, if you choose Parcelforce, a 2 kg package will cost you anywhere between £32 to £70 depending on the delivery time. But with FedEx, it will cost you between £100 and £140.
Different couriers you can use to ship from the UK to the USA
When choosing an express delivery to return a parcel to the US, you do not have to use the same courier that delivered it. There are different shipping methods one can use, like sea freight or air freight, but those are mostly used for packages that are 30kg or more. Courier services make smaller shipments.
This is why today we will cover multiple couriers you can use when sending parcels to the US. We recommend you compare all the different shipping times and choose the one that suits you the best.
Please note that for today’s examples, all parcel prices listed are based on a package that weighs 2 kg.
DHL
It is no wonder DHL is one of the most popular courier services in the world. It has multiple shipping options for returning a parcel to the US. Also, price-wise, they are one of the most affordable couriers on the market.
When choosing delivery speeds, you have two options:
- Express shipping – 1 to 2 business days
- Standard shipping – 2 to 6 business days
If you choose express shipping, it will cost you anywhere between £40 and £72 for your parcel to be shipped. The cost varies based on the pick-up factor. What this means is that you can choose one of three options:
- to drop off the parcel at your nearest DHL Service Point
- to book a courier collection service online
- book a collection over the phone
If you are in no hurry and wish to proceed with standard shipping, the price will be around £45 regardless of how the package is picked up and delivered to DHL.
As advised on their website, the package will be delivered in approximately three business days unless there is a national holiday in the US.
FedEx
While being one of the most famous courier services in the world, FedEx is also considered one of the most expensive when comparing prices to other courier services.
Their parcel delivery can be tracked even when you send parcels to remote locations, and the shipping time is not bad. This being said, they do offer discounted rates from time to time.
They offer two main shipping services:
- Priority Shipping which includes FedEx International Priority Express, FedEx International Priority, FedEx International First
- Economy Shipping which includes the FedEx International Economy
FedEx Priority will cost you around £120 to £160 and will get your parcel delivered in 1 business day, not including the weekend.
FedEx’s Economy delivery timeline is around five business days to deliver a parcel, and the usual cost is around £113.
Parcelforce (Royal Mail)
One of the most prominent courier companies in the UK, Parcelforce has exceeded everyone’s expectations regarding delivery service.
Among all the couriers we have listed today, they have one of the cheapest shipping prices and offer not one but three different options to ship a package.
Here are the services they offer:
- Global Express – the most expensive option with one to two-day delivery, costs between £64 to £70, depending on how the package is delivered to Parcelforce, whether through their pick-up or you drop it off at their depot or the Post Office.
- Global Priority – three-plus day delivery, which is perfect if you are not in a hurry. The prices range between £41 to £43.
- Global Value – This option will be perfect for you if you are on a tight budget. Usually takes five business days or more for the delivery to be completed. However, the price is magical at around £34.
So, if you want your parcel delivered without breaking the bank, Parcelforce will be a perfect choice.
UPS
One of the most versatile couriers on our list, UPS offers many different delivery options, alongside a very wide range of prices to go with them.
This being said, because of the numerous choices you can opt for, there is something for everyone.
While doing research for this article, we were given the following options:
- UPS Worldwide Express
- UPS Express Plus
- UPS Worldwide Expedited
- UPS Express
- UPS Express Saver
The prices ranged from £32 for the Express Saver to £107 for the Worldwide Express. Moreover, the transit times were oddly similar.
If sent on a Friday, the package would arrive on Monday with all the options except for Worldwide Expedited, which would take around five business days.
The good thing about UPS is that the prices for international shipping are as good as domestic, so you can sleep soundly and save money.
Packing tips when shipping a package to the USA
So why is packing important when you are returning the package? Because if the goods you received do not fit or even have a flaw shouldn’t be returned all mumbled-jumbled and get damaged in the process.
If something gets damaged, you will most likely miss the opportunity to get a refund. You can also save money on the packaging because the parcel size and weight will impact the cost.
Here are a few tips you can utilise when sending a parcel overseas:
- Make sure to check the price range for different package sizes and weights.
- Consider different options to fill your package and secure the contents. You can use bubble wrap, air pillows, or eco-friendly options such as corrugated bubble wrap, biodegradable packaging peanuts, or recycled paper and cardboard. These options are lightweight and will not cause a significant weight increase.
- Safety of the contents should be your number one priority. This is why using solid packaging is essential. Usually, boxes are the first to come to mind, but all courier services also offer poly bags or foil-sealed bags for extra protection against water.
- Avoid any extra fees by opting for 120 x 60 x 60 cm sized packages or smaller.
- Avoid delays or issues by attaching all the necessary customs documents to the package. It should be secure and visible. For extra protection, you can opt to put an overlay of plastic on top of the documents and seal it with tape.
- Make sure to write the address correctly.
What is the correct way to write a USA address when shipping from the UK to the US?
When writing the address on your package, the best way to guarantee the correct spelling and capitalisation of letters is to check on Google.
Why are we mentioning this? Because often there is missing information. For instance, there are over ten thousand 2nd streets in the USA, and if you do not type in the correct state, who knows where your package will end up!
You should write the address in a particular order, starting with the recipient’s name. Next would be the street’s number and name, followed by the state’s name. If you choose to abbreviate the state’s name, use all capital letters.
Pro tip: Placing the recipient’s email and phone number will allow the courier to contact the recipient if any delivery issues arise.
An example of what the US address should look like:
John Patterson
475 Park Ave
New York, NY 10022
USA
What customs documents do you need to return a package?
There is a big difference in what should be included when shipping and returning a package regarding customs documents.
When shipping a package, you need an airway bill and either CN22 or CN23. Clearly state on the CN22 that it is returned goods.
Also, when returning a package to the retailer, you need a return label. You can receive it in two ways. One is for the label to be already included when your parcel first arrives. The other is to request for the retailer to send it to you.
You are all set if the label is already provided to you. However, if you need to fill it out on your own, follow the address steps we laid out for you in the section above. Also, check whether the RMA (return merchandise authorisation) is provided.
The package will usually need to be opened up if the RMA is not provided. You can request this number from the retailer if you see it missing.
What should you know regarding import duty and VAT charges when sending a parcel back to the US?
Regarding customs charges, it is slightly different when returning goods to the US compared to the EU.
In most cases, goods made in the US and returned should not have additional duty or VAT charges.
When filling out the customs declaration form, simply tick the box that says “Returned goods”, and customs duties won’t be charged.
This being said, most goods under $800 can be exempt from customs duties and taxes and will not need a customs declaration. However, this will depend on the customs authorities who receive your parcel.
However, there is a catch. The goods must be returned up to 3 years after the purchase.
Whether or not you will be charged for the duty and taxes depends on the attached customs paperwork.
How can you calculate your parcel’s import duty and VAT charges when you receive it? Glad you asked!
Import Duty and VAT charges – what are they, and how to calculate them?
Import duty is a tax levied on most goods entering the country. The tax rate will vary based on the type of goods you receive, their value, and country of origin.
Import VAT is a value-added tax charged based on the total value of the goods alongside any handling fees and is always 20% of the total cost.
So how can you calculate how much you would need to pay?
That’s easy. There are a couple of options you can opt for, and those include:
- Using the services of a freight forwarder
- Using an online duty calculator
- Using our simplified and client-friendly Duty Refunds customs duty calculator
Our calculator also includes the cost of handling fees for most known parcel delivery companies. What is important to note is that the handling and shipping fees will always be non-refundable, so keep that in mind.
When you calculate your customs charges, it will be easier to know how much you will need to pay for your parcel when the customs officials clear it.
How can you reclaim import duties if you return a package to the US?
This process is usually tiresome for many and can prove very complicated, so you must keep a watchful eye on the forms you will need to fill out.
You can pick between CHIEF and CDS claim, depending on your chosen route. At the core, they are very similar.
You will need to fill out the C285 form, and we have a step-by-step guide on how to do so.
The C285 has six pages you must fill out very carefully – might we add. Otherwise, HMRC can decline your request if they notice even the slightest mistake. And the worst part? They probably won’t even notify you.
Is the entire process of reclaiming your duties confusing? Duty Refunds will come to your rescue!
Many UK customers usually give up on reclaiming their customs charges due to the complicated and longsome process. From customs fees you first need to pay, even if your parcel is cheap, and it probably isn’t, to all the customs documents you need to go through to file a claim, it isn’t easy.
However, we are here to help!
Duty Refunds has had an extensive and fantastic track record in helping clients reclaim their duties.
To begin the process, you will need to return your parcel. When your goods arrive in the US, and you have been issued a refund, we will need you to fill out our simple form on the website.
If you qualify, we will need your tracking number. We will request all your paperwork from the courier service, and you can sit back and relax while you wait for your funds to be returned to you.
Reclaim your duties with Duty Refunds
We have made the entire reclaiming process so easy – in just a few clicks, you are set. Duty Refunds is on a mission to help as many customers as we can get their funds back fuss-free.
Don’t believe us? Check out the many testimonials our happy clients have left after the service we have provided them.
Initiate your claim today, and we will ensure you receive your funds in 3 to 6 weeks!
FAQs regarding shipping from the UK to the US
How much does shipping a parcel from the UK to the US cost?
This greatly depends on the package size, the weight and the courier service you choose.
Why is shipping from the UK to the US so expensive?
The average shipping cost when sending a package from the UK to the US is £35 to £45. Considering that the package has to cross the entire ocean, it could be far worse.
How long does Parcelforce take to ship a package to the USA?
They offer multiple choices, depending on how much you are willing to spend and whether you need your parcel to arrive quickly or have time. They offer to ship from 1 day with Express shipping to 5+ days with Global Value.
How long does DHL shipping take from the UK to the USA?
DHL currently offers two options to ship from the UK to the US. Express shipping usually takes one to two business days, whereas Standard can take anywhere from two to six business days. This doesn’t include Holidays.
Why is my package from the UK taking so long to arrive in the US?
After Brexit, a package you send must go through customs. In return, the package may take longer to arrive than you expected. This especially happens if you don’t include all the documentation and information for customs clearance.
How can I reclaim customs charges on returned goods?
You can reclaim customs charges by either submitting the claim to HMRC on your own or using a third-party agency.
If you decide to go through the process independently, ensure you have gathered all the relevant documents. Then fill out the C285 claim online, print it, and mail it along with the rest of the documentation.
Keep in mind that HMRC takes quite a long time to reply to claims. You might not receive an answer if it has been denied.
Claims mostly get denied due to incorrect information. However, it’s quite difficult to figure out what you filled out incorrectly.
That’s why we recommend claiming customs charges through Duty Refunds. Our experts are familiar with the ins and outs of the refund process.
We will fill and file the claim on your behalf while you can just sit back and relax.
Can I reclaim import duty if I returned just one item from my package but decided to keep the rest?
Yes! If you are unsatisfied with just one item from your order, you can still submit a claim and get a partial refund.