Reliable International Sea Freight Services in the UK

ARC Forwarding provides dependable and cost-effective sea freight services in the UK, supporting businesses with international shipping solutions for large, heavy, or non-urgent cargo.

Whether you are importing or exporting, our experienced team manages the entire ocean freight process from booking to final delivery, ensuring your goods move safely, compliantly, and on schedule.

If you’re looking for a trusted UK sea freight forwarder, ARC Forwarding delivers practical solutions that keep your supply chain moving.

Sea freight is the most economical method of transporting goods internationally and is widely used for high-volume, heavy, or cost-sensitive shipments.

Why Choose Sea Freight for International Shipping?

Choosing sea freight allows businesses to:

●     Move large or bulky cargo efficiently

●     Reduce transportation costs compared to air freight

●     Ship full containers or share space through consolidation

●     Plan shipments for non-urgent or scheduled delivery windows

While transit times are longer than air freight, sea freight offers unmatched value for commercial shipments and global trade.

As an experienced sea freight company in the UK, ARC Forwarding works with a global network of shipping lines and overseas partners to secure reliable sailings, competitive rates, and smooth cargo movement worldwide.

A cargo ship carrying colorful shipping containers on the ocean, viewed from above.

Sea Freight Services We Offer

Comprehensive ocean freight solutions tailored to your business needs, from full containers to consolidated cargo.

  • Line drawing of a cargo ship with containers and a bridge tower.

    International Sea Freight

    Import and export sea freight services worldwide, with full coordination between shipping lines, ports, and customs authorities.

  • A delivery truck carrying a large shipping container, being lifted by a crane.

    Full Container Load (FCL)

    Dedicated containers for larger shipments, providing greater security, reduced handling, and predictable transit schedules.

    Learn about FCL

  • A digital illustration of various shipping containers stacked in different colors, including blue, green, and turquoise.

    Less than Container (LCL)

    Cost-effective solution for smaller shipments, where your cargo is consolidated with other consignments.

    Learn about LCL

  • Door with three stacked boxes beside it, each with a ribbon, representing package delivery or storage.

    Door-to-Door

    A fully managed service including collection, ocean freight, customs clearance, and final delivery.

  • A boat docked next to a crane, with a body of water beneath.

    Port-to-Port Shipping

    We manage the ocean freight movement while you arrange collection and delivery at origin and destination.

  • Icon of three overlapping documents with lines of text, some highlighted in blue.

    Customs Clearance & Documentation

    Full support with import and export customs declarations, documentation, and compliance requirements.

    Customs Services

Our Sea Freight Process

A streamlined approach from initial quote to final delivery, ensuring your cargo moves safely and on schedule.

1

Quote & Assessment

Review cargo details and provide tailored quotation.

2

Booking & Planning

Book space, confirm container and sailing schedule.

3

Documentation

Prepare all paperwork, Bills of Lading, and customs info.

4

Ocean Transport

Cargo loaded and shipped according to agreed schedule.

5

Clearance & Delivery

Customs clearance and final delivery to destination.

What Our Clients Say

Our clients choose ARC Forwarding for our reliability, clear communication, and hands-on approach. We pride ourselves on building long-term partnerships and delivering a freight forwarding service that businesses can depend on.

Paul, Managing Director

Sea Freight
★★★★★
"We have worked with Arc forwarding for a number of years now. Their team is extremely helpful with navigating the ever changing world of logistics. They are just a phone call away from an enquiry and ensure all container deliveries are received on time. Highly recommend."
Jessica

Andrew, Head of Commercial

For Air & Sea Freight
★★★★★
"Arc is a dependable and efficient freight forwarder who consistently goes above and beyond. Their service, communication, and attention to detail make them a trusted logistics partner for Sports Hub."
David & Amanda

Anna, Technical Manager

For Customs
★★★★★
"We have worked with ARC Forwarding for nearly six years, and our experience with them has been consistently exceptional. Their team is available around the clock and remains professional, efficient, and approachable when supporting us with any import or export enquiries. Their regular news bulletins keep us informed of relevant legislative changes, and they work closely with our company to ensure all updates are implemented smoothly and effectively."
Lisa

Damien, Head of Procurement

For Air & Sea Freight
★★★★★
"We consistently receive excellent service from the team at Arc Forwarding. The communication is always clear, timely, and proactive, ensuring smooth deliveries and reliable support throughout the process. A highly dependable partner for our supply chain"
Carlos & Maria

Jane, Director

Customs
★★★★★
“We have dealt with Arc Forwarding for over 5 years and they have always provided a very professional service. All members of their team are polite and helpful and are always willing to provide extra support and help when needed."

Request a Sea Freight Quote

If you’re looking for a trusted UK sea freight forwarder to manage your international shipments, ARC Forwarding is here to help. Speak to our team today to discuss your requirements or request a tailored sea freight quote.

Request a Quote