Have you been eyeing that fashionable UK-exclusive trench coat or a pair of sneakers with designs that never make it across the Atlantic? You’re not alone. The trend of buying from UK stores and shipping to the US has been growing, thanks to better deals, unique items, and the charm of UK brands. This guide lays out everything you need to know, from why people shop UK to how to make cross-country shopping seamless.
Why Buy IN UK SHIP TO US ?
Many US shoppers and expats are drawn to UK stores because they offer something special. Here’s why the UK is a shopping hotspot:
- Unique Products: UK-exclusive items are often hard to find or unavailable in the US. Brands like Primark and Marks & Spencer carry unique collections that American stores haven’t replicated.
- Better Prices: Exchange rates can make popular UK products surprisingly affordable when compared to similar items sold in the US market.
- Renowned Brands: UK-based luxury brands like Burberry, Barbour, and Liberty London have international appeal, while casual brands like ASOS or Next are staples for style-conscious shoppers.
- Variety in Niche Products: From gourmet British snacks like Cadbury chocolates to niche fitness gear, UK stores offer items that cater to specific tastes and hobbies.
How to Buy from UK Stores and Ship to the US
Some UK retailers have international shipping policies, while others don’t. Here’s a quick list of popular UK stores and whether they BUY IN UK ship to US directly:
- ASOS – Great news! They ship to the US with ease.
- Marks & Spencer – Offers international shipping at competitive rates.
- Harrods – Ships some items to the US, though restrictions on certain goods may apply.
- Next – One of the most U.S.-friendly UK retailers, offering seamless shipping to North America.
- Primark – Unfortunately, no direct shipping to the US, but forwarding services can help you out.
- John Lewis – Limited international shipping, often requiring third-party facilitation.
Customs and Import Duties
The US has customs regulations for goods imported from another country, especially if the total value exceeds $800. Here’s what to keep in mind WHILE BUY IN UK SHIP TO US
- Plan for Duties: Goods over $800 may incur customs duties upon arrival. Use calculators like SimplyDuty to estimate costs.
- Required Documentation: Make sure your seller or forwarding service includes the necessary customs forms.
- Restricted Items: Certain products may not be allowed into the US, such as alcohol or specific types of food. Always review US Customs regulations before purchasing.
Cross Border ECOMMERCE
Cross-border shopping isn’t without its potential pitfalls.BUY IN UK SHIP TO US OR WHEREVER, Be aware of the following issues:
- Returns: Returning an item overseas can be costly and time-consuming. Look for stores with clear US-friendly return policies.
- Warranties: UK-purchased electronics may not have warranties valid in the US due to regional restrictions.
- Damaged Goods: Use shipping services that offer insurance to protect your purchases.
Tips for a Seamless Buying Experience
Here are a few pro tips to make sure your BUY IN UK SHIP TO US shopping experience is smooth sailing:
- Research Before Buying: Read reviews and double-check return policies before shopping online.
- Wait for Sales: UK brands often have big sales for Boxing Day (December 26), Black Friday, and summer clearances. Get the best deals on these dates!
- Join UK Store Newsletters: Sign up for retailer newsletters to be notified about discounts exclusively for subscribers.
- Package Consolidation: If buying from multiple UK retailers, consolidate packages with your forwarding service to save on shipping fees.
Shop UK TO USA with PARCEL FORWARDING SERVICE
When a store doesn’t offer US shipping (like Primark),Or you want to buy in uk ship to US you can enlist the help of forwarding services. Companies likE Deliveringparcel provide UK addresses for you to send your orders to. Once your parcel arrives at their facility, they forward it to your US address for an additional fee.
Which UK Stores Don’t Ship Internationally?
Despite their global popularity, some well-known UK stores don’t cater to international shoppers when it comes to shipping. Here are a few examples:
1. Primark
Known for its trendy yet affordable fashion, Primark is adored by bargain hunters in the UK. Unfortunately, the store doesn’t offer online shipping at all—their products can only be purchased in-store.
2. John Lewis
John Lewis is a go-to destination for home décor, electronics, and high-quality clothing. While they have an online presence, international shipping options can be limited.
3. Harrods
The iconic luxury department store Harrods offers shipping to some international locations, but there are notable exclusions depending on the product (such as food and alcohol). For broader access to their exceptional items, you might face hurdles.
4. ASDA
ASDA’s affordable groceries, fashion, and household items are incredibly appealing, but their online store doesn’t offer international delivery.
5. Argos
Argos, famous for electronics, toys, and home goods, operates exclusively within the UK and Ireland. They don’t ship products overseas, which can frustrate non-UK shoppers after a great deal.
Why Do Some UK Stores Avoid International Shipping?
While international shipping feels like a basic offering in today’s world, several reasons might explain why UK stores choose not to ship abroad:
- Logistics Challenges: International shipping requires meticulous handling to ensure products arrive intact. For some retailers, this process is simply too complex.
- Higher Costs: International shipping can involve customs duties, taxes, and shipping fees that small businesses or budget-conscious retailers like Primark would prefer to avoid.
- Product Limitations: Certain items like perishables, alcohol, or high-tech electronics are subject to strict export regulations, making global shipping more complicated.
- Focus on Brick-and-Mortar Sales: Stores like Primark prioritize their physical retail presence over e-commerce, keeping their business model simple.
What Can International Shoppers Do?
If you’re someone living in the U.S., Canada, Australia, Asia, or beyond and have your heart set on products from one of these UK stores, don’t worry. There are several ways you can BUY IN UK SHIP TO US from them without living in the UK.
1. Use a Package Forwarding Service
Package forwarding services are perhaps the easiest and most popular solution for international shoppers. Here’s how it works:
- Sign up with a UK-based package forwarding service like Deliveringparcel.com
- You’ll be given a UK address to use when placing orders with UK stores.
- Once the package is delivered to this address, the service will forward it to your international location for a fee.
Pros:
- Access nearly any UK store.
- Customizable shipping options based on speed and cost.
Cons:
- Costs can add up, especially for heavy items.
- Potential customs delays or additional duties.
2. Explore Shop-and-Ship Services
Some international courier companies, such as Deliveringparcel ShopxShip.com, offer special services for bringing UK purchases to your location. These services act as a middleman, handling purchases and shipping logistics for a smooth experience.
Pros:
- Streamlined service that combines shopping and shipping.
- Reduces hassle for buyers unfamiliar with the process.
Cons:
- Service fees may be higher than package forwarding operations.
- Limited to locations where the courier operates.
3. Contact the Store Directly
While many stores list their shipping policies clearly on their site, contacting the store directly can sometimes yield surprises. Reach out to customer service and ask:
- If they can make an exception for international shipping.
- If they have regional partnerships or distributors that can fulfill your order.
Pros:
- Direct communication may provide options not mentioned on their website.
- Potential discounts or shipping solutions might be offered.
Cons:
- May require multiple follow-ups with customer support teams.
- Some stores may still decline.
4. Find the Product on Global Marketplaces
Before assuming you’re out of options, check whether the product you want is available on global e-commerce platforms such as:
- Amazon (many international Amazon sites, like Amazon U.S. or Amazon DE, carry UK-origin items).
- eBay, where sellers often offer worldwide shipping.
This solution not only widens your access but also allows you to compare prices and shipping times.
Pros:
- Widely used platforms with buyer protection policies.
- Faster shipping in many cases.
Cons:
- Some items may be marked up significantly.
- Limited to goods listed by marketplace sellers.
Pros and Cons of Shopping Across Borders
Pros
- Access to Unique Products: Whether it’s Primark fashion or John Lewis homeware, shopping across borders can provide access to styles and goods unavailable locally.
- Better Prices: Even with international shipping fees, some UK sales or clearance deals may still be cheaper than local options.
- Cultural Connection: UK expats and international shoppers can stay connected to British culture through iconic brands.
Cons
- Hidden Costs: Customs fees and taxes can sometimes make international purchases unexpectedly expensive.
- Longer Waiting Times: International deliveries usually take longer than domestic shipments.
- Limited Customer Support: Resolving shipment issues internationally can be more challenging.
Final Thoughts
BUY IN UK Ship to US stores that don’t offer international shipping might seem like a dead end at first. However, with tools like package forwarding services, shop-and-ship couriers, and global marketplaces, it’s entirely possible to access the best the UK has to offer.
If you’re new to these solutions, start small—perhaps with a single item or a trial run from a forwarding service. This way, you can balance costs, shipping times, and convenience to find what works best for you.
Are there UK goodies you’ve been eyeing but can’t seem to access? Give package forwarding or shop-and-ship services a try—and bring the best of British shopping to your doorstep!
