Japan → Felixstowe: service and transit time
Felixstowe is the largest container port in the UK and the distribution point for London and the country as a whole. It is called from Japan on the Europe services via the Suez Canal. Transit is around 45–60 days, varying by carrier, schedule and season. Delays can occur due to weather, port congestion or omitted calls.
The trunk service via the Suez Canal is the basis, but depending on conditions it can be switched to the Cape of Good Hope routing, which extends the transit considerably. Using a transhipment service at a nearby hub increases the number of sailings and makes space easier to secure. We will propose to suit your required delivery date.
| Port of loading | Main Japanese ports (Yokohama, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka/Kobe and others) |
|---|---|
| Port of discharge | Felixstowe (GBFXT) / UK, Europe |
| Transit time (guide) | 45–60 daysDelays can occur |
| Containers | 40HCFCLSOC |
Transit times are a guide for representative services and are not guaranteed. They differ by carrier and service, and delays can occur due to weather, port congestion or omitted calls. Confirmed schedules are provided with your quote.
40HC ocean freight rates to Felixstowe and what moves them
UK rates reflect both the Suez situation and the post-Brexit customs regime. Documentary requirements differ from the EU, so clearance costs sit as a separate line. Compare on the total including UK-side customs charges rather than ocean freight alone.
We compare rates from multiple carriers side by side and present the best available at that moment. Card payment is supported, so you can book without straining your cash flow.
Ports, customs and inland transport for UK
Since leaving the EU, the UK has its own customs regime separate from the EU. Documents must be prepared to UK requirements.
We will guide you through the required documents and deadlines, so please ask even if this is your first shipment to the UK. For inland destinations, confirming drayage and onward transport in advance makes the schedule easier to plan.
SOC container also available
Equipment turns over well in Europe, so carrier-owned containers (COC) normally work. Consider SOC where the final destination is a landlocked country with tight return conditions.
Other routes in Europe
We also handle other routes to Europe. If the destination is not yet fixed, we will compare options on the all-in cost including the inland leg.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Japan to Felixstowe take?
45–60 days is the guide. It varies with carrier schedules and peak-season congestion, and delays can occur due to weather, port congestion or omitted calls. Confirmed schedules are provided with your quote.
Is customs clearance the same as for the EU?
No. Since leaving the EU the UK has a separate customs regime. Documents must be prepared to UK requirements.
Can you deliver to the London area?
Yes. Felixstowe is the largest container port in the UK with distribution networks to London and the rest of the country. We will include the inland cost in the quote.
Could I discharge at Rotterdam and forward to the UK?
It is possible, but customs clearance happens twice and cross-channel transport costs are added. If the UK is the final destination we recommend discharging at a UK port.
What is the maximum payload of a 40HC?
Internal capacity is roughly 76 cubic metres and the maximum payload is up to 26.5 tonnes (this can differ by carrier and equipment). Send us your cargo details and we will advise the right container and an estimate.
Are quotes free? How can I pay?
Quotes are free. We accept credit cards (VISA / Mastercard / American Express / JCB). Once you have an account you can quote, book and manage shipments from My Page.
Japan to Felixstowe 40HC, at today’s best rate
Rates compared across carriers, quote to booking online. Creating an account is free.
Create a free account / get a quote