GilbertLinkShipping · Useful Info

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about shipping barrels, boxes, containers, vehicles and personal effects from the UK to the Caribbean.

Can’t find your answer? Cargo requirements vary by destination and item type. Contact us before packing anything unusual, valuable, powered by a battery or potentially restricted.

Prices, bookings and collection

How much does it cost to ship my cargo?

The cost depends on the destination, type of service and size of the cargo. Boxes and irregular items are normally priced using their volume, while barrels and other services may have set destination rates. Use our instant quotation calculator or contact us for a confirmed price.

How do I measure a box for a quotation?

Measure the length, width and height at the widest points. Use metres when calculating the cubic volume: length × width × height. Enter the measurements and destination into our quotation calculator. We may remeasure cargo before shipment and adjust the final price if the supplied measurements are different.

Do you collect from anywhere in the UK?

Yes. We offer nationwide collection. A fixed local collection fee may apply to eligible addresses within the M25. Collections outside the M25 are quoted according to the postcode, cargo and collection arrangements.

Can I drop my cargo off?

Drop-off may be available by appointment. Please contact us before travelling so we can confirm the location, opening time and the information that must be attached to every item.

How do I book?

You can request a quotation online, contact our team or complete the relevant shipping form. We will confirm the service, collection arrangements, required documents and payment details.

What payment methods do you accept?

Available payment methods will be shown on your quotation or invoice. Payment must be made by the agreed deadline so your cargo can be processed for shipment.

Services and destinations

Which Caribbean destinations do you serve?

We ship to Grenada, Jamaica, Trinidad, Guyana, Barbados, St Lucia, Dominica, Antigua, St Vincent, St Kitts and Montserrat. Service frequency and delivery options vary by destination.

What types of cargo can you ship?

We handle barrels, boxes, cartons, personal effects, household goods, pallets, appliances, furniture, containers, vehicles and motorcycles, subject to size, carrier and destination restrictions. Contact us for machinery or unusual cargo.

Do you provide door-to-door shipping?

Door-to-door service is available on selected routes and locations, including services for Jamaica and Grenada. Availability and charges depend on the collection and delivery addresses, so please request confirmation before booking.

Can you ship a full container?

Yes. We can arrange container shipping for household goods, commercial cargo and other suitable loads. See our Container Sizes Guide and contact us to discuss the most suitable container and loading arrangements.

Can you ship cars, vans and motorcycles?

Yes, subject to carrier acceptance and destination import rules. We will need vehicle details and supporting ownership documents, such as the V5C/logbook where applicable. Vehicles may also be checked before shipment. The customer must confirm import eligibility, duties and registration requirements at the destination.

Packing, documents and restricted items

Who is responsible for packing and labelling the cargo?

The sender is responsible for packing cargo securely and providing an accurate contents list. Every barrel, box or package must be clearly labelled with the sender and consignee details. Read our How to Pack a Shipping Barrel guide before collection.

Do you sell barrels and boxes?

Yes. Packaging products may be purchased through our Shop, subject to availability. We offer different barrel and carton sizes. Our Barrel Size Guide can help you choose the right option.

Do you offer a packing service?

Packaging materials are available, and packing assistance may be possible for certain larger or specialist shipments by prior arrangement. Ask our team before booking if you need help with packing or wrapping.

What documents do I need?

Requirements depend on the cargo and destination. You will normally need accurate sender and consignee details, a contents list and values. Vehicles and commercial cargo require additional documentation. Complete the relevant shipping forms and provide any permits, invoices or proof of ownership requested.

What items are prohibited or restricted?

Explosives, flammable fuels, dangerous chemicals, illegal goods, live animals and many other hazardous items cannot be placed in ordinary personal-effects cargo. Batteries, medicines, food, plants, alcohol, vehicles and machinery may need checks or permits. Review our Prohibited Items guide and ask us before packing anything uncertain.

Sailing, arrival and insurance

Are sailing and arrival dates guaranteed?

No. Departure and arrival dates are estimates and can change because of weather, port congestion, vessel changes, customs or other circumstances outside our control. If your cargo is needed by a particular date, ship early and allow extra time, especially during busy periods.

Where can I find the latest shipping dates?

Visit our Sailing Schedule for current closing, departure and estimated arrival dates. Please check the latest schedule before arranging collection.

Will the recipient have charges to pay at the destination?

Destination charges, customs duties, taxes, storage, examination and agent fees may be payable by the consignee unless your quotation specifically states that they are included. Charges and import rules vary by destination and cargo type.

Is cargo insurance available?

Insurance options depend on the cargo, value, packing method and destination. Cover is not automatic. Valuable items should be declared before collection with invoices or other proof of value. Please contact us for the available terms, exclusions and cost before shipping.

How will I receive shipment updates?

We provide booking and shipment information using the contact details supplied by the customer. Please ensure your telephone number and email address are correct, and keep your reference or invoice details available when contacting us.

What should I do if there is a problem with my cargo?

Contact us as soon as possible with your reference number, photographs and full details. Do not dispose of packaging or supporting documents. Any claim is subject to the applicable service and insurance terms.

Still have a question?

Tell us what you are shipping, its measurements, the collection postcode and the Caribbean destination. Our team will advise you on the correct service and next steps.