Import from Spain to the UK
Data from the Bank of Spain revealed the UK is Spain’s fifth-largest trading partner and accounts for around 7% of total Spanish sales abroad. The UK and Spain’s diplomatic ties stretch back over 500 years, with imports increasing by 7.2% in 2024.
To encourage trade, the two countries signed the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) that allows duty-free trade.
To encourage trade, the two countries signed the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) that allows duty-free trade.
Why import from Spain to the UK?
Competitive prices
Import from Spain to the UK, and you can source high-quality goods at competitive prices. Spain’s infrastructure offers shipping from major ports like Algeciras, Barcelona, and Valencia, which are strategically located.
Wide range of goods
Spanish manufacturers produce speciality olive oils, worked slate, and citrus fruits. Exporters from around the world consult Spanish suppliers for these goods, with Valencian ceramics and Barcelona’s textiles in high demand.
High-quality
The Spanish Standards Association and Certification Associations are responsible for checking exports comply with EU regulations. Trade standards are rigorous, and full quality assurance systems are in place for goods imported from Spain.
The Best Rate For Your Freight
Access real-time quotes from leading freight providers. Choose the best ocean and air shipping option for your business.
What products are commonly imported from Spain?
In 2024, Spain was the UK’s seventh-largest trading partner: the total trade in goods and services between the two countries came to £62.4 billion. Imports accounted for £42.7 billion of this trade.
The following five goods make up the highest percentage of shipping from Spain to the UK:
Any international import from Spain must be cleared through their customs control before making its way to the UK.
The following five goods make up the highest percentage of shipping from Spain to the UK:
- Cars (£3.3 billion)
- Vegetables & fruit (£2.4 billion)
- Medicinal & pharmaceutical products (£2 billion)
- Mechanical power generators (intermediate) (£1.2 billion)
- Road vehicles other than cars (capital) (£857.7 million)
Any international import from Spain must be cleared through their customs control before making its way to the UK.
How to prepare for customs
Efficient shipping from Spain can be completed if the importer has arranged the correct customs paperwork. You can employ a customs agent or freight forwarder to do this on your behalf.
Marking and labelling
To sell imports from Spain on the UK market, goods such as footwear, precious metals, children’s products, and food and drink must follow product labelling laws.
EORI number
All imports travelling from Spain to the UK must, first, be assigned an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number. It allows UK authorities to track goods as they move across borders.
Commodity code
Commodity codes determine the customs duties, VAT, and any applicable import restrictions. Composed of ten digits unique to the shipment, it helps customs classify goods accurately.
Pay duty & VAT
Import charges from Spain to the UK will depend on what kinds of products you’re bringing into the country and their declared value. These charges must be settled before the goods can be cleared through customs.
Inspection (if necessary)
Some goods will require an import licence, including:
- High-risk foods
- Waste shipments
- Animals and animal products
- Tissues and cells for human application
- Weapons and goods that could be used for torture or capital punishment
Find the Lowest Freight Rates Today
Compare shipping quotes from trusted providers. Get the best deals for ocean or air freight.
How do I ship goods from Spain to the UK?
Most imports from Spain arrive in the UK by air or sea.
Sea freight
Shipping your goods via sea freight from Spain can be more cost-efficient for bulk shipments. This process can take anywhere from 2 to 10 days, but transit times could be extended if the ship must stop at multiple ports.
Air freight
Suited to valuable, time-sensitive deliveries, air freight from Spain to the UK can take 1–3 days for express shipments. Without this, the average is 5–10 days.
Does the UK have a free trade agreement with Spain?
No, the UK does not have an FTA with Spain, but it does benefit from other agreements, such as the UK—EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
It means importers can access tariff-free and quota-free trade on goods that meet the rules of origin requirements.
While customs procedures now apply to goods imported from Spain to the UK, businesses can benefit from reduced charges if they can prove that their products originate in the EU.
It means importers can access tariff-free and quota-free trade on goods that meet the rules of origin requirements.
While customs procedures now apply to goods imported from Spain to the UK, businesses can benefit from reduced charges if they can prove that their products originate in the EU.
Compare Freight Shipping Rates in Seconds
Get instant quotes from leading ocean and air freight providers. Find the best rates for your shipping needs in one place.