Read this guide all about Removals to China from the UK or any worldwide location.
Advance Moves can save you time and money when it comes to Removals to China. We can give you an instant online quick quote for a move to any worldwide location, which is then backed up by up to 5 free quotes from moving companies specially selected from our list of agents and partners to cover your area and requirements. You then have the choice of selecting the mover and quotation that is best for you, saving both time and money in obtaining a competitive removals quotation.
Planning a removal to China from the UK is one of the most exciting — and complex — relocation journeys you can take. Whether you’re moving for work, study, family, or retirement, China offers a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. But moving internationally also involves big decisions: choosing the right shipping method, navigating customs, securing a visa, and adjusting to a new culture.
At Advance Moves, we make the process simpler. With our unique Quick Quote system, you can enter your basic removal details and instantly receive a guideline price and volume estimate. From there, your details are matched with the top 5 international removal companies, who contact you directly with tailored quotes. It’s fast, simple, and saves you both time and money.
This page provides a complete guide to removals to China from the UK, including shipping, visas, expat life, and everything you need to prepare for your new adventure.
China is one of the world’s most influential nations — a powerhouse of culture, business, and innovation. For UK nationals, China offers:
🌆 Dynamic cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen with endless opportunities.
📈 Growing industries in finance, technology, education, and trade.
🎓 World-class education, both in local universities and international schools.
🍜 A rich cultural experience, from cuisine and festivals to language and history.
💰 Lower cost of living in many regions compared to London and other UK cities.
British expats in China enjoy the chance to be part of a rapidly developing country while experiencing an entirely new way of life.
Moving internationally can feel overwhelming. That’s why we created the Advance Moves Quick Quote system — designed to make your life easier.
Here’s how it works:
Enter your details – Tell us your basic moving information: where you’re moving from in the UK, your destination in China, and an idea of what you’re shipping.
Instant guideline price – The system instantly calculates a guideline volume and price estimate for your move.
Matched with movers – We match your details to the best 5 international removal companies experienced with UK–China relocations.
Receive tailored quotes – Each company contacts you directly with competitive quotes.
Compare & save – You choose the mover that suits your needs and budget.
👉 No endless forms. No chasing multiple companies. Just fast, reliable results.
Sea Freight – The most cost-effective method for large household moves.
Full Container Load (FCL): Exclusive use of a 20ft or 40ft container.
Less than Container Load (LCL): Share space with other shipments, ideal for smaller moves.
Air Freight – Faster but more expensive. Suitable for urgent or smaller shipments.
Sea freight UK to China: 4–8 weeks, depending on port and service.
Air freight UK to China: 7–14 days, depending on customs clearance.
When shipping to China, customs clearance is essential. Documents usually required include:
Valid passport and visa.
Work or residence permit.
Detailed packing inventory in English and Chinese.
Bill of lading or air waybill.
Printed materials or media considered politically sensitive.
Weapons, ammunition, and explosives.
Certain types of electronics and telecommunications equipment.
Fresh produce, meat, or dairy.
Controlled medicines or chemicals.
📌 Pets can be imported but may face quarantine regulations, depending on the city.
To live and work in China as a British national, you’ll need the right visa and permits.
Z Visa – For those with a confirmed job offer in China. Requires sponsorship from a Chinese employer.
X Visa – Student visa for those enrolled at a Chinese university.
Q Visa – For family reunification, allowing expats to join relatives already living in China.
S Visa – For dependents of foreigners working or studying in China.
M Visa – For short-term business activities.
After entering China with a visa, you usually need to apply for a Residence Permit within 30 days. This permit allows long-term stay and multiple entries.
China is vast, with major cities offering very different lifestyles for expats.
Financial hub and China’s most cosmopolitan city.
International schools and expat communities are well-established.
High cost of living but excellent infrastructure.
The cultural and political capital of China.
Rich history: temples, palaces, and traditional hutongs.
Good for professionals in government, education, and technology.
Known as China’s “Silicon Valley.”
Great for those in tech, startups, and innovation.
Warm climate and a younger expat scene.
Major trading and manufacturing hub.
Strong Cantonese culture and cuisine.
Lower living costs than Beijing or Shanghai.
Famous for pandas and laid-back lifestyle.
Growing expat presence.
Affordable housing and slower pace of life.
Known for scenic beauty and rapid economic growth.
Strong tech industry presence (home of Alibaba).
Excellent balance of modern living and tradition.
Beijing/Shanghai: Comparable to London rents.
Smaller cities: Much cheaper, with apartments starting around £300–£500/month.
Eating out is far cheaper than in the UK — a restaurant meal can cost as little as £3–£10.
Imported groceries can be expensive.
Public transport is modern, efficient, and affordable.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps are much cheaper than in the UK.
Public healthcare is low-cost but may have long wait times.
Many expats use private hospitals or international insurance.
Living in China as a British expat comes with both challenges and rewards:
Large expat communities for support and networking.
Exciting opportunities for career and personal growth.
Affordable daily life compared to UK cities.
Language barrier — Mandarin is essential for deeper integration.
Bureaucracy can be complex, especially with visas.
Pollution in some major cities.
Despite challenges, most British expats find China to be an enriching and life-changing experience.
🌍 Instant Quick Quotes for removals to China from the UK.
📦 Matched with the top 5 international movers.
💰 Save time and money by comparing multiple quotes.
🚛 Experience with complex shipping and customs into China.
👨👩👧 Supporting thousands of families, individuals, and businesses relocating worldwide.
👉 Click the yellow Quick Quote buttons at the top or bottom of this page to get your instant removal estimate today.
A move from the UK to China is a major life step — but with the right planning, support, and expert movers, it can be smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or adventure, Advance Moves helps you every step of the way.
Start your journey now with a Quick Quote for removals to China from UK, and take the first step toward your new life in the Middle Kingdom.
Email: info@advancemoves.com
Address: Parcela 9, calle rio mula, pol ind marimingo, bullas, Murcia, 30180, Spain
Tel: +34968654667
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