Whether you’re sending food, clothes, or household supplies, shipping a barrel from the UK to Jamaica remains one of the most cost-effective ways to support your family or prepare for travel. This 2025 guide explains how to ship barrels to Jamaica from the UK — including freight options, customs duties, and collection in Jamaica.
📦 What Can You Ship in a Barrel?
UK-based Jamaicans typically send:
Non-perishable food (e.g. canned goods, dry goods)
Toiletries and hygiene products
Second-hand clothes and shoes
Kitchenware and linens
Baby items, school supplies, and small electronics
❌ Avoid packing: perishables, flammable liquids, cash, illegal substances, or anything restricted by UK or Jamaican customs.
📍 Steps: Shipping a Barrel to Jamaica from the UK
1. Purchase a Barrel in the UK
You can buy 55-gallon plastic barrels from Caribbean shipping outlets in:
London (Tottenham, Brixton)
Birmingham
Manchester
Leeds
Average cost: £20 – £35
Some companies also rent barrels or include them with your shipping package.
2. Choose a UK-to-Jamaica Shipping Company
Here are some reliable UK shipping providers:
| Company | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Berth Logistics | London, Birmingham | berthlogistics.com |
| Econocaribe UK | Nationwide | econocaribe.co.uk |
| Laparkan UK | London | laparkan.com |
| Transpakship | London | transpakship.com |
Ask if they provide:
Door-to-door pickup
Drop-off warehouse locations
Online tracking
Assistance with customs in Jamaica
3. Pack Your Barrel
Pack efficiently:
Use liners and padding for fragile items
Place heavier items at the bottom
Secure the barrel with rope, zip ties, or metal seals
Label clearly with the recipient’s full name, TRN, and Jamaican address.
4. Pay for Shipping & Get a Bill of Lading
Average sea freight cost:
£60 – £100 per barrel
Additional charges may apply for door pickup or oversized loads
You’ll receive a Bill of Lading — keep this safe. Your recipient needs it to collect the barrel in Jamaica.
5. Track the Shipment
Transit time from the UK to Jamaica typically takes:
4–6 weeks by sea
Some premium options may offer air freight (much more expensive)
🇯🇲 When the Barrel Arrives in Jamaica
Your recipient must:
Go to Kingston Wharves, Montego Bay Port, or the shipping depot
Present the Bill of Lading and valid ID
Provide their TRN (Tax Registration Number)
Pay customs and port fees
Some UK shippers partner with local agents in Jamaica to help you clear the barrel.
🧾 Customs & Duties
Typical charges include:
Port handling fees: J$2,500 – J$4,000
Customs duty (based on contents and value)
Environmental Levy and GCT if applicable
✅ Food and personal-use items often attract little to no duty — especially if shipping under the Barrel Concession programme, usually offered during the Christmas holidays.
💡 Tips for Smooth Shipping
Double-check your item list before sealing
Keep an inventory photo of packed items
Label the barrel clearly and waterproof all documents
Choose a shipper with Jamaica-based clearance support
🔗 Related Guides
✅ Final Thoughts
Shipping barrels to Jamaica from the UK is a reliable and practical option for supporting family or preparing for travel. With the right packing, a trusted shipping agent, and clear customs documentation, your items should arrive safely and without delays.
For more help with Jamaican services, shipping tips, and TRN or customs info, visit HowToJA.com — your trusted guide 🇯🇲
