Exporting goods out of the UK: What you need to know

• Cash flow challenge: I want to start exporting goods, but I’m worried about the paperwork, international shipping, and the costs involved before I get paid.

• Perfect for: UK businesses looking to expand into international markets by selling products overseas.

Novuna helps UK exporters manage upfront costs and the cash flow gaps that come with shipping overseas. We compare providers and offer tailored finance solutions to keep your business running smoothly while you wait for payments.

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Key requirements for exporting goods

Before exporting, make sure you:

• Have a UK-issued EORI number for customs clearance

• Use the correct commodity codes to classify goods

• Check if export licences are required for your products

• Understand the customs requirements of the destination country

Duties, tariffs, and taxes

Export costs depend on:

• Trade agreements between the UK and the destination country

• Tariffs or duties imposed by the importing country

• Shipping costs and insurance

These costs should be factored into your pricing strategy and cash flow forecast.

Logistics and shipping

Choosing the right export method will depend on the volume, value, and urgency of goods:

• Air freight -  fast but expensive, ideal for smaller or high-value shipments

• Sea freight - cost-effective for bulk goods, though slower

• Courier services - useful for smaller or time-sensitive deliveries

Plan ahead to avoid delays at ports or airports, which can impact delivery times and customer satisfaction.

Cash flow pressures of exporting

Exporting often means covering production, shipping, and customs costs upfront while waiting for international clients to pay. This gap can put strain on working capital.

Solutions include:

• Invoice finance to release cash from international invoices

• Trade finance to cover supplier and logistics costs

• Working capital loans for ongoing cash flow support

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Common challenges when exporting

• Navigating complex customs paperwork

• Managing currency fluctuations

• Delays in international shipping

• Payment risk with overseas customers

How Novuna Business Cash Flow helps

Novuna supports UK exporters with flexible finance options to manage upfront costs, cover shipping expenses, and maintain cash flow until customers pay. With our help, you can expand confidently into international markets.