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:
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Non-perishable food (e.g. canned goods, dry goods)
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Toiletries and hygiene products
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Second-hand clothes and shoes
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Kitchenware and linens
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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:
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London (Tottenham, Brixton)
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Birmingham
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Manchester
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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:
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Door-to-door pickup
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Drop-off warehouse locations
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Online tracking
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Assistance with customs in Jamaica
3. Pack Your Barrel
Pack efficiently:
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Use liners and padding for fragile items
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Place heavier items at the bottom
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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:
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£60 – £100 per barrel
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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:
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4–6 weeks by sea
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Some premium options may offer air freight (much more expensive)
🇯🇲 When the Barrel Arrives in Jamaica
Your recipient must:
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Go to Kingston Wharves, Montego Bay Port, or the shipping depot
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Present the Bill of Lading and valid ID
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Provide their TRN (Tax Registration Number)
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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:
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Port handling fees: J$2,500 – J$4,000
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Customs duty (based on contents and value)
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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
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Double-check your item list before sealing
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Keep an inventory photo of packed items
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Label the barrel clearly and waterproof all documents
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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 🇯🇲
