If you are arranging the delivery own your goods yourself, then the information below outlines different aspects that can affect the cost. ukimports.org

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How to calculate your shipments size in cbm

The measurement of cubic metres is, according to one of the online dictionaries, a "metric unit of volume or capacity equal to 1000 litres". So you may ask yourself, why this is relevant when you are not importing any liquid into the UK.

Well, it is also the internationally recognised measurement of size when shipping goods. When getting quotes for shipping and delivery, the company will need to know the size in cubic metres (cbm), before they give you an accurate price.

The following is how this can be calculated - all original sizes must be in CM's:

Length (L) x Width / Depth (W) x Height (H) ÷ 1,000,000 = size in cbm

e.g. 30cm (L) x 30cm (W) x 40cm (H) = 0.036 cbm

To make things just a little bit simpler, you could always change your Centimetres in to Metres. How? Using the same measurements as above, its just like this:

30cms becomes 0.3 metres x 40 cms or 0.4 metres x 0.4 metres = 0.036 cbm

Please note: This measurement of cubic metres (cbm) is not to be confused with the Volumetric weight of an object, which is also used in the freight industry.

If the volumetric weight is what you are trying to calculate, then this is done as follows - again, using CM's:

Length (L) x Width / Depth (W) x Height (H) ÷ / divided by one of the following, depending on mode of transport:

Airfreight (Incl. Courier) ÷ 6000
Ocean / Sea Freight ÷ 1000
Road (TIR) ÷ 3000 (this can vary, check with your haulier) ukimports.org

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Seafreight - FCL or LCL delivery?

As you would expect most of the procedures are the same for both Full Container Loads (FCL) and Less than a Container Load (LCL), for example, the delivery is affected by size, urgency, distance and driver availability etc.

However the following is a brief guideline as to how these two types are different.

FCL
A seafreight container has to be returned to the port of arrival (or another designated point). This works in two ways, either you;
a: arrange for the driver to wait till it is unloaded.
A certain amount of allocated time can be incorporated in the cost, however, if the container takes longer than expected to unload, then you will be charged additional waiting time.
The other option is;
b: That you arrange for the container to be dropped off at your delivery point, and then you arrange the return of this container, on a different day. Be aware that containers are rented in advance, therefore, ensure that you ask the shipping line when this has to be returned. Penalty fees apply if not returned in time.

LCL
This is probably the easier option, although, as with the Full Container Load deliveries (FCL), you still need to ensure that everything is in place for when the driver collects and delivers otherwise the haulier / delivery company may charge a wasted journey fee.

Please ensure that all details are provided when requesting delivery quotes, as even the smallest detail that you may forget to mention could result in you being charged additional costs.

Please continue to read the other points mentioned on this subject and if you still have any questions, then email us.
ukimports.org

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Seafreight - Commercial Release

This is probably one of the most important things to know when arranging the delivery of your goods. The Commercial Release is authorisation for your goods to leave the port (FCL) or warehouse (LCL). This authorisation is confirmation that all charges have been paid, that all / any original documents surrendered and that the goods are Customs cleared. ukimports.org

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One or more of the following could not only have an affect on the cost of delivering your goods, but more importantly, it could affect the hauliers ability to deliver your goods. Ensure that you mention any of the following, should they apply to your goods:

 

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Hazardous Cargo

If your goods have been classified as 'Hazardous Cargo', then this affects not only the cost, but also limits the number of companies that are able to deliver your goods. All hazardous cargo has a 'UN' number and 'Class' number. You will need to quote these to the company delivering your goods. Also, you will need a Travel Emergency Document , known as a 'Tremcard' and a Dangerous Goods Certificate (or DG Cert.).

Contact us if you require more information regarding this subject, and we will try and assist you. ukimports.org

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Transit Time

A lot of companies use a certain haulier for certain areas, and a lot of these can be part of a pallet network. How does this affect you? Well, depending of course on distance, there is usually a set 2 or 3 day delivery. If these set transit times do not suit you, then you are more likely to pay for a dedicated vehicle to collect you goods, and deliver them directly to you delivery point. ukimports.org

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Personal Effects

People moving their home to the UK, or are returning after a long trip, or for whatever the reason, bringing your unaccompanied baggage or personal affects can have its own problems when it comes to delivery.

Firstly, its not usually palletised. Possessions can be all shapes and sizes and therefore can be too big for one person to carry, or awkward to hold, and doesn't stack on top of each other. Then there's the subject of the delivery address. These can be busy roads with no parking, small narrow lanes where big lorries and van have trouble accessing. It could be that the delivery is to a 4th floor flat and many other problems relating to private, residential properties.

If you mention to the haulier / delivery company that your goods are personal effects, they may not want to take on the work, and you may be referred to a company of professional movers / removals, or you may want to look at the possibility of collecting the goods yourself. ukimports.org

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2-man delivery

As with the subject of personal effects, certain deliveries may not have any unloading facilities and may require two delivery people. Ensure that you discuss the cost involved in this option if you think that this may be needed. Most deliveries are made with only the driver on board. ukimports.org

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Timed Delivery

As with the subject of Transit Times, above, if you require the driver to be at the delivery point at a certain time, then this will be additional cost. The most common times are: 9am, 10am, and 12 (noon).
Please note that certain factors could delay the driver, such as loading problems, vehicle mechanical problems, traffic road problems etc. If the driver is delayed, in most cases you will still have to pay the additional 'Timed Delivery' charge. ukimports.org

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Specialist Vehicle

Specialist vehicles could be: Low-Loader, Car Transporter, Curtain-sided, Tail-lift, HIAB, Flat-bed Trailer, to mention a few. If your delivery requires a certain type of vehicle to deliver your goods, then be prepared for this to cost you more. ukimports.org

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