How Long Does a Parcel Take from America to the UK?
Ordered something from the US? Here's how long it should take to reach you in the UK.
How long does a parcel take from America to the UK?
It depends on the shipping method. Express services can arrive in 3-5 business days, while standard shipping typically takes 7-21 business days. Economy options can take 4-8 weeks.
Quick answer
Express: 3-5 days. Priority: 6-10 days. Standard: 10-21 days. Economy: 4-8 weeks. Add 1-3 days for customs processing. Express carriers like FedEx and UPS include customs clearance in their service. Standard and economy shipments may sit in customs for several days.
Delivery times by shipping method
US to UK shipping times 0 / 5 checked
These are estimates. Customs processing, peak seasons, and weather can add time.
Comparing with other routes? Check how long parcels take from China or read about international shipping times generally.
Customs and potential delays
Tracking your US parcel
FedEx, UPS, and DHL provide real-time tracking from collection in the US to delivery in the UK. You can see exactly where your parcel is at every stage.
USPS tracking works well in the US but can become patchy once the parcel enters the UK postal system. Track on both usps.com and royalmail.com for the best visibility.
Economy and surface mail often have minimal tracking. Updates may stop once the parcel leaves the US. You won't get UK tracking until (or unless) it enters the Royal Mail system.
Ordering from specific US retailers? Check whether Target ships to the UK or find out if Walmart delivers to UK addresses.
Tips for faster delivery from the US
Shipping internationally?
Our cardboard boxes and protective packaging meet international shipping standards for safe delivery worldwide.
Browse cardboard boxesSending parcels abroad yourself? Learn how to send a parcel to India or check costs for sending to China.
Frequently asked questions
Express: 3-5 days. Priority: 6-10 days. Standard: 10-21 days. Economy: 4-8 weeks. Add 1-3 days for customs.
Orders over £135 attract 20% import VAT. The carrier collects customs charges on delivery, plus a handling fee.
Customs processing typically takes 1-3 days. During peak periods it can take longer. Express carriers handle customs faster than standard mail.
Express services offer full tracking. USPS Priority has good US tracking but can be patchy in the UK. Economy mail has limited tracking.
FedEx International Priority (2-3 days) or DHL/UPS Express (3-5 days). These include customs clearance in the service.
Part of our guide
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