Freight forwarding policy

How to use a UK freight forwarder to receive an order overseas — what we do, what we don't.

Forwarding a UK order overseas

We don't ship outside the United Kingdom directly. If you live abroad or are buying for an overseas address, you can have your order delivered to a UK-based freight forwarder, who will then handle the international leg. Here is how to make that go smoothly.

What we can do

• Deliver to any UK mainland address, including forwarders' warehouses.
• Palletise large items and consolidate multiple parcels onto one pallet.
• Provide a packing list and weight schedule for export documentation.
• Issue a VAT invoice that the forwarder can use to apply for VAT relief on export (subject to HMRC rules).

What we can't do

• Handle the international shipping leg ourselves.
• Refund VAT directly at point of sale (it's reclaimed at the export stage by the forwarder).
• Take responsibility for damage that occurs after the goods leave the UK leg.

The process

1. Tell us at the time of order that this is a forwarding arrangement, and give us the forwarder's name and address.
2. We palletise and clearly label.
3. The forwarder takes title at handover and arranges international shipping with you.
4. For a VAT refund, the forwarder presents export documentation to HMRC.

Insurance

Our standard delivery insurance covers the UK leg. International shipping insurance is between you and your forwarder. We strongly recommend signing for the goods at the forwarder's warehouse with photographs.

Customs and duties

Import duties, customs charges and overseas VAT are the responsibility of the importer of record (you or the forwarder). We can't advise on these — speak to your forwarder or a customs broker.

Recommended forwarders

We don't formally endorse a specific forwarder, but we've had positive experiences with several large UK-based names. Your insurance and customs broker may already use one.

Last updated 2026-05-26 · J & M McEwen, Kirkwall