Shipping Wedding Leis To The Uk: Is It Possible?

Wedding leis are a beautiful tradition and a symbol of love and respect. If you're planning a wedding in the UK and want to include this Hawaiian custom, you may be wondering if it's possible to ship fresh leis to your wedding location. The answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your leis arrive in pristine condition.

Shipping costs

Flower Leis:

Flower Leis, a company based in Hawaii, offers shipping services for leis to the mainland, including the UK. Their estimated shipping and handling rates for the US mainland are as follows:

• The first lei starts at $38.50 for 2nd Day Air, and each additional lei is approximately $3 or more, depending on the shipping method.
• Priority Next Day Air is estimated to cost $50 for the first lei and $6 for each additional lei.

Buy Hawaiian Lei:

Buy Hawaiian Lei offers free shipping within the US for orders over $50. For international shipping to the UK, additional charges may apply. The exact shipping cost will depend on the quantity of leis ordered.

General Shipping Costs to the UK:

When shipping items to the UK, the recipient is usually responsible for import duty and taxes. These charges can vary depending on the value of the goods and the type of items being shipped. It is essential to consider these additional costs when calculating the total shipping expense.

To obtain an accurate shipping quote for wedding leis to the UK, it is recommended to contact the lei vendors directly, as they can provide specific information regarding their shipping rates and methods.

Packaging

When shipping wedding leis to the UK, it is important to ensure that they are packaged properly to guarantee that they arrive fresh and in good condition. Here are some key considerations for packaging:

Use insulated packaging to maintain a cool temperature. This could include insulated boxes or coolers. Additionally, gel ice packs can be included to keep the leis fresh during their journey.

Timing

Prepare the leis for shipping right before the pickup to ensure maximum freshness. Leis are perishable, so it is crucial to minimise the time between preparation and shipping.

Placement

Place the leis on top in your luggage or package to make them easily accessible for inspection by customs officials. This will help facilitate a smoother process when passing through customs.

Protection

Wrap the leis in tissue paper or plastic to provide a layer of protection and ensure they are not squashed during transit. This will help maintain the shape and integrity of the leis.

Storage Instructions

Include care instructions on a packing slip for the recipient. Advise them to store the leis in a sealed container or bag and refrigerate at approximately 54°F (12°C) before the wedding. Alternatively, they can use a cooler with ice, being careful to keep the leis dry and avoid direct contact with the ice.

Shipping Method

Choose a reputable shipping company that offers priority overnight shipping. This will ensure the leis spend the least amount of time in transit, reducing the risk of deterioration.

Import fees

To ship wedding leis to the UK, you will need to follow certain procedures and incur associated costs. Here is a detailed overview of the import fees you can expect:

Documentary Check:

This involves the examination of official certifications, attestations, and commercial documents accompanying the consignment. A fee is charged for each phytosanitary certificate or other relevant document included under the CHED PP (Common Health Entry Document for Plants, Plant Products, and Other Objects).

Identity Check:

This is a visual inspection to verify that the contents of the consignment match the information provided in the accompanying documentation. A fee is charged for each 'Commodity Group' per CHED PP, ensuring that the contents correspond to the declared plant, plant product, or object description.

Physical Check:

This entails checking the goods to ensure compliance with the phytosanitary import requirements of the destination country, including inspections of the consignment's packaging and transport. The fee for this check is directly related to the time taken for the inspection. For example, inspecting bulbs takes longer and incurs a higher fee than inspecting cuttings.

Sampling and Laboratory Testing:

If there is a suspected presence of controlled plant pests or diseases, samples may be taken for laboratory testing or diagnosis. A separate fee is charged for each sample tested, which can be costly.

Pre-Notification:

Consignments of plants, plant products, and certain objects from the EU may require pre-notification through the IPAFFS (Intra-Union Trade and Movement and Compliance System) before customs clearance in Great Britain. Charges are based on the CHED PP number, and pre-notification helps ensure minimal delays when the goods reach the UK.

Customs Clearance:

To import flowers into the UK, you must gain clearance from DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) and UK Customs. This involves registering for the DEFRA 'PEACH' (Plant and Plant Product Health) computer system and providing the necessary shipping documents, including a phytosanitary certificate. Additional charges may apply for urgent clearance and perishable goods.

Import Duty and VAT:

Import duty and VAT (Value Added Tax) are calculated based on the commodity classification code for fresh cut flowers, which falls under Chapter 06 of the Customs Tariff. The duty rate, VAT rate, licences, documentation, and restrictions are determined by this code. The exact fees will depend on the type and value of the goods being imported.

Courier Service Costs:

The cost of shipping wedding leis to the UK will depend on the courier service used, the weight of the package, the shipping method, and the delivery speed. It is recommended to use a sturdy box that fits the leis snugly to reduce shipping costs and minimise movement during transit.

Insurance:

It is highly recommended to purchase insurance when shipping wedding leis internationally. This will protect you financially if the leis are damaged or lost during transit. The cost of insurance is typically based on the declared value of the goods.

Other Potential Fees:

There may be additional fees, such as priority or overnight shipping charges, signature waiver options, or special handling fees imposed by the courier service. These fees can vary depending on the courier company and the specific circumstances of the shipment.

Please note that the information provided is general, and for detailed calculations and the most up-to-date information regarding import fees and procedures for shipping wedding leis to the UK, it is advisable to consult official government sources and local customs regulations.

Shipping times

When shipping leis to the UK, it is important to consider the time needed for customs clearance and potential delays due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. It is recommended to add a few extra days to the estimated delivery time to account for any potential delays.

The type of shipping service selected will also impact the delivery time. For example, FedEx 2nd Day will take two days for delivery, but leis can only arrive Monday through Saturday and cannot arrive on Tuesdays.

To ensure that your wedding leis arrive on time, it is advisable to place your order at least a week or two before your wedding, as some intricate leis may have order delays. You can also schedule your delivery date to ensure fresh leis arrive right before your wedding.

Additionally, when shipping leis internationally, it is important to check the regulations and restrictions of the destination country. Some countries may have specific rules regarding the import of flowers and plants, which can impact the shipping time and feasibility.

Customs

When shipping wedding leis to the UK, it is important to be aware of the customs regulations and requirements. Here are some key points to consider:

• Plant and Fruit Restrictions: The UK has strict regulations regarding the import of plants and fruits to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Make sure your leis do not contain any prohibited items such as citrus plants or flowers, diseased plant material, or fruits like pandanus. Check the UK government website for specific information on restricted items.
• Inspection and Declaration: Immigration inspectors will carefully examine your leis to ensure they do not contain any prohibited materials. Always declare your leis to customs officials, who will inspect them for any restricted items or the presence of bugs or plant diseases.
• Packaging and Transportation: Proper packaging is crucial to ensure the freshness and integrity of your leis during transportation. Use gel ice packs and insulation to keep the leis fresh, and consider using tissue paper or plastic to wrap them for added protection. Choose a reputable courier service that offers express delivery to minimise the time in transit.
• Import Duties and Taxes: When shipping leis to the UK, import duties and taxes may apply. These charges are typically calculated based on the value and type of the goods being imported. As the recipient, you will be responsible for paying these additional costs, so be sure to factor them into your overall budget.
• Customs Declaration: When filling out the customs declaration form, be sure to accurately describe the contents of your shipment. Provide detailed information about the leis, including the type of flowers or materials used, the quantity, and the value. This information will help customs officials assess the appropriate duties and taxes.
• Quarantine and Inspection: In some cases, your leis may be subject to quarantine or further inspection by UK customs or agricultural authorities. This process helps protect the UK's agriculture and ecosystems from potentially harmful pests or diseases. Be prepared for possible delays and have the necessary documentation ready to facilitate the process.

Frequently asked questions