[donsrno1]

I'm currently speaking to a manufacturer in the zhejiang province of china about buying some items. However, I would be purchasing quite a large quantity so would probably be sending by container shipping. This is something I know very little about so if anyone could answer some of my questions it would be much appreciated.

The supplier provided me with a rough shipping cost of 1225USD for a 20ft container. I assume this would cover the costs of getting the container to the appropriate UK port but what costs would I face there after?

I know I would have to pay VAT and import duties, but would there be any other fees to pay and what sort of costs would be involved in getting the good taken to my business storage address? I know there are many variable to consider but any rough examples would be greatly appreciated.

The other option I have is to send a smaller amount though I would not have my own container which I am aware can potentially be a problem. If I were to do this again what costs would I be likely to incur at this end? e.g. If I were to order a quantity where I could collect the items myself within days of their landing could I go along, unload the container at the port and not face any fees other than my VAT and import duties?

Finally, are 40ft and 20ft containers the only real options? Or can you use 8ft or 10ft containers? as they would allow me to order my ideal amount, but I am not sure if they are commonly used if at all. Also, what sort of prices (rough estimate) would I be looking at in terms of shipping costs to get them to my door from china if I had for example a 20ft container?

As I have said I know there are many variable to consider but any rough examples of the price you have paid would be a big help. I will contact my supplier about some of these questions but feel I should try and learn more about the whole process before I do that.

Thanks in advance.