A simplified Guide to Lorry types and Weight

 

If the driving axle, is not steering the axle has twin tyres and road-friendly suspension or each driving axle is fitted with twin tyres and the maximum weight for each axle does not exceed 8.55 tonnes.
** Distance between the rear axle of the motor vehicle and the front axle of the trailer is not less than 3 metres.
*** If the vehicle is being used for combined transport

(a)  5 axles or more artic and the 5 axles or more drawbar could alternatively have a 3 axle motor vehicle and a 2 axle trailer.
(b) Conditions:
- each vehicle must have at least 3 axles.
- drive axle has twin tyre and road-friendly suspension and a maximum of 10.5 tonnes or each driving axle is fitted with twin tyres and has a maximum of 8.5 tonnes
- trailer has a road-friendly suspension
(c) Conditions for operation on 5 axles:
- must have 3 axles on the tractor unit
- single container 40ft in length conforming to standards laid down by the International Standards Organisation being carried only
- vehicle being used for international journey.
(d) Powered by a low pollution engine.

A simplified Guide to Lorry types and Weight

OVERLOADING OF GOODS VEHICLES

Why does overloading matter so much?

  1. ROAD SAFETY. Lorries which are loaded beyond their design weight are less able to stop quickly in an emergency and the steering of the vehicle can be affected.
  2. ROAD WEAR AND TEAR. It is estimated that the overloading of good vehicles costs the community over £50M a year through additional wear and tear to roads and bridges. Heavy axles cause proportionately far more wear and tear, and overloading drive axles (legal limit 11.5 tonnes) are the biggest single cause of excessive wear and tear on roads.
  3. COMPETITION. Gross overloading is unfair to the majority of law-abiding operators who accept the constraints of the plated weight limits set by the law. An operator who persistently overloads a lorry can earn additional profits amounting to thousands of pounds per annul

SOME TECHNICAL TERMS EXPLAINED

AXLE WEIGHT:
GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT: 
TRAIN WEIGHT:
PLATED WEIGHT:
TRAILER:
DRAW-BAR TRAILER:
SEMI-TRAILER:
ARTICULATED VEHICLE:

The total weight transmitted to the road by all the wheels on one axle.
The weight of a vehicle and its load.
The weight of a vehicle, a trailer and its load.
Either the design weight limit is given on a manufacturer’s plate or the legal weight limit is given on the Department’s plate.
Any vehicle is drawn by a motor vehicle.
A trailer pulled by a rigid vehicle.
A trailer forming part of an articulated vehicle.
A tractor unit with a semi-trailer att

OVERLOADING

Goods vehicles are subject to U.K. weight limits. The weight limits are given on the manufacturer’s plate or the Department’s plate on each vehicle. They are determined by the technical specification of the vehicle and the need to protect U.K. roads and bridges from excessive wear and tear. Vehicles over 41 tonnes operate under special arrangements. 44 tonnes is allowed for combined (road to rail) transport.
A vehicle is overloaded if it exceeds the plated weight limits. A vehicle could be overloaded on all its axles, on its gross weight and on its train weight. Each of these would be separate offences, e.g. a 3 axle articulated which exceeded the plated weights on the 1st axle, 2nd axle and gross weight would make both the vehicle operator and driver liable to three separate offences.

A vehicle or vehicle combination from 1 January 1999 can operate under either The Authorised Weight Regulations 1998 or The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations (as amended). This leaflet has been produced by the Department for Transport, at the request of the Magistrate’s Association to give guidance to Magistrates in dealing with cases on overloading. It is not intended to be a fully authoritative statement of the law

 

Maximize the Hidden Storage Space in a Container and Save Money

Shipping items to Jamaica can feel like a daunting task, especially when trying to save space in a container. There are so many different elements, including container sizes, types, uses, modes of shipping, and pallet selection what can determine the cost. Of course, you’ll want to maximize the space in your container and make sure you are getting the best return on investment. Effective planning and the right organization are key elements in a cost-effective shipping strategy. The question is: How do you cut shipping costs and maximize the space in your container? Have a look at our tips below, where we focus on 20-foot and 40-foot containers.

The main concern of most people who get in touch with us comes down to weight. “Will I get charged extra if I add X item in my container?” or “My items weight X kilograms. Can I ship it?”

The surprising truth is that weight doesn’t matter. Whether you’re using a 40-foot container OR A 20-foot one, the same pricing rate will apply. So what are you charged for then? Volume. To simplify it, Space.

To save money and ship the most possible products, you need to focus on space utilization. In a few words, placing as many items to fill up the space of the container to its full potential. Weight shouldn’t be your concern and extra charges do not apply. 

Bear in mind that a 20-foot container can accommodate up to 25 cubic meters, while a 40-foot container can hold anywhere between 55 and 60 cubic meters.

How we calculate and charge the volume

The formula we're using for calculating the volume is Height x Width x Depth = Volume.

Shipping Cost = Volume x Shipping Rate (per cubic meter).

To measure your items accurately use a tape measure.

A very common question we get is "What if I mix up width or depth and I measure them wrong?".

Sometimes, it can get confusing. But here is the good news. It really doesn't matter. 

Whether you confuse depth for width or width for height, the final calculation cost will be the same.

Tape measure for items shipped to Jamaica

MEASURING A CHAIR

How to measure items for cargo container shipping
MEASURED YOUR ITEMS? GET A SHIPPING PRICE QUOTE

What is Flat Pack Furniture and why should you prefer it over others? 

Flat packs are ready-to-assemble furniture or else self-assembly furniture which are produced in flat parts and can be assembled when purchased with minimal effort and without the need for special tools, at least in most cases. They’re packed in flat-packed boxes, at the time, separately, with all the necessary bolts and nuts for their assembly and with an instruction manual. 

Based on the type of furniture, the components to assemble could be anywhere from 5 to 50. 

IKEA is quite popular for its flat-pack retailed and flat-pack furniture delivery. 

When shipping your furniture overseas, and planning to purchase furniture, we highly recommend going with the flat-pack version of them. Despite being affordable, it will save you plenty of space in the container and allow you to ship more items, saving on your total costs.

Flat Pack Furniture suitable for shipping overseas to Jamaica

Utilizing hidden space gaps to save space in a container

We’ve come across the same scenario numerous times. Customers shipping sofas, chairs, desks, tables, and other items that are not dismantled but yet again they have plenty of “empty space” in-between when wrapped and it is not utilized to its full potential.

Then, they try to reposition items, stack them in a different way, trying to release space to fit everything. While those adjustments can work, we believe you can create the same effect with just a few small changes.

 

Let’s have a look at the images below:

 

 

Measuring your vehicle before shipping to Jamaica
Measuring your vehicle before shipping to Jamaica
Measuring your vehicle before shipping to Jamaica
Measuring your vehicle before shipping to Jamaica
Available storage space when shipping sofas
Utilizing empty space when wrapping sofas and furniture to ship in containers
OUR 10 STEP GUIDE TO CARGO/BOXES BOOKING, COLLECTION, SHIPPING AND CLEARANCE

After removing the pillows from this sofa, there is plenty of space on it to attach other small packages or items, before shipping it to Jamaica. How about putting some stuff in boxes and attach them on top of it? So many alternatives to experiment with.  

The same applies to furniture like desks, chairs, beds, and sofas. 

Ideally, there is to be no empty space left in the container by the time you’ve loaded all your stuff. Of course, it's impossible to reach its full capacity but keeping those standards in mind will help you maximize the space you got. 

You don’t necessarily have to fill the empty space in your container exclusively with freight. You can add dunnage, matting, wood, or other material that can fill small spaces between cracks and crevices, minimize the shifting of contents, and absorb movement/shock.

Securing items before shipping

It’s very important to secure the items placed within, below, or above your furniture/other items in the best possible way. If an item cannot be secured with dunnage, you need to find alternative methods that prevent its movement like lashing with anchoring, blocking, or tie-downs. It’s very important to take every measure needed to prevent the contents from moving during shipping, as much as possible. 

The shifting or tiling of freight, along with any lateral or longitudinal movement can not only put your container items in danger but also the people who interact with your container.

Preparing your items for the container

Before Caribshipping arrives to load and transport your items onto the cargo, you need to make sure you package it properly.

1 - Use only new boxes for packing. Household items like books can work well with a cardboard book carton, whereas for kitchen appliances and bedding you’ll need line cartons. 

2 - Use bubble wrap or even linens to cushion fragile items like photo frames etc.

3 - Make sure all items are well secured in their boxes and use strong adhesive tape to close them. Label each box with a number and its contents. Ex. Bathroom supplies, box 3 of 10. Keep a record of your items and box numbers. If anything gets lost or damaged, it will save you tons of time and money. 

4 - Couches, sofas, and recliners require a stretch wrap to protect them from damage and dust. For other fine furniture, you can use furniture pads and let them down a long furniture pad inside the container.

Wrapping up household items and fine furniture to ship to Jamaica in cargo and container
Wrapping up household items for shipping overseas to Jamaica from the UK

How to disassemble your furniture (if needed)

Let’s go through the most common furniture getting shipped which can be transformed to save additional space. 

Disassembling a sofa to save storage in a container

If you’re shipping your sofa, the first thing you need to do is try to remove its legs if possible. Essential when it comes to moving the furniture around, it’ll save you some time, effort, and scratches when trying to get it through doorways. Take off all the cushions and covers and pack them along with the legs on a separate box. 

Then you have two options: Either disassemble them or ship them as they are.

When shipping them as they are, you can use our guide above to save space by adding other items in the white space created when packing them.

If you want to proceed further and disassemble everything, begin with the frame. Turn the sofa on its back and use a Flathead screwdriver to remove the staples at the base. This will allow you to take off the upholstery, or at least, roll it back. Then, remove the bolts and screws that hold the arms. Remove the seat and the back of the sofa using a screwdriver or an Allen wrench. 

In the end, you’ll be left with pieces of wooden frames and screws and a pile of upholstery. A dismantled sofa is still prone to damage, so make sure everything is wrapped thoroughly and safely. If you’ll be the one who will reassemble the sofa, or a person who is not familiar with the process, make sure you take photos when disassembling so you can put back everything when your sofa arrives at its new home. 

Disassembling furniture when they arrive to Jamaica
Disassembling furniture when shipping them to Jamaica

Disassembling a desk chair to save storage in a container

Desk Chairs are quite easy to disassemble and reassemble. If you want to ship your desk as it is, then we won’t discourage you. It will save you time, and you can put extra boxes on top of it to fill the empty space.

In case you decide otherwise, start by removing the wheels (if any). After, there should be a knob on the bottom of the seat which needs to be loose enough to remove the seat, so turn it around until it’s removed. The same applies to the back of the chair. You’ll be left with just the chair’s main structure. Use bubble wrap to cover each part and box all of it up. If this approach doesn’t work, refer to the instruction manual that came with the desk/table.

Disassembling a desk/table to save storage in a container

Desks and tables can get shipped as they are and you can fit plenty of boxes or other items under them, saving time and effort.

Turning the table upside down and removing its legs, it will be an easy task to unscrew it but it might take a bit of elbow grease to get it done. Some table legs are attached with a “leg assembly”, a combination of braces and screws which can be detached with a screwdriver. 

Wrap the legs in a combination of bubble wrap and cardboard. Use a few sheets of corrugated cardboard and a thick blanket to protect the table. 

How will you package your goods?

To maximize your container’s space you need to determine your product's packaging before shipping. Loose cargo or palletized goods

The key is to choose the right pallet, thus reducing transportation costs, and handling your goods in an efficient way from the starting point to reaching the Jamaican wharf.  

Palletized Goods 

Select your pallets based on type and size. The most commonly used pallet types are Euro and Standard pallets. 

Standard Pallet

A standard pallet is larger than a euro one, reaching from 1 meter up to 1.2 meters, and comes in different sizes, full, half, and quarter. The ISO (International Organization for Standardisation approves up to six pallet dimensions, as detailed in ISO 6780.

Euro Pallets

A Euro pallet is about .8 by 1.2 meters and is used in many different industries. They’re not the best option for ISO shipping containers and for this type of pallet you’ll need slightly wider containers. The European Pallet Association (EPAL) is the one responsible for the pallet manufacturing regulations and construction materials. EPAL must authorize all manufacturers of EURO pallets.

 

Loose Cargo

Loose Cargo requires palletization. This way, you’ll keep your cargo safe and secure during transit. Your carrier has the right to deny your shipment if your product is not palletized and thus, at risk of getting damaged during transit, loading, or unloading. If you’re not familiar with the process, you can always rely on Caribshipping to take care of this part.

Cargo shipping in a container to Jamaica, types of cargo
Shipping containers to Jamaica

How Many Pallets Fit in a Container? 

The pallet type, how you arrange them, and the size of the container you’re loading will determine the number of them that can fit in a single container. 

Standard Pallets

A 20-foot container can take up to 9 or 10 on one tier, depending on how they are arranged, whereas a 40-foot container can take up to 20 or 21 pallets in one-tier. 

Euro Pallets

A 20-foot container can handle up to 11 pallets on one tier, and a 40-foot container can load 23 to 24, but it’s all about how they’re arranged. 

Container sizes and capacity shipping to Jamaica from the UK
Find the right container size for your needs

How to Prepare your Vehicle for Shipping to Jamaica

You may need to prepare your vehicle for shipping to Jamaica for a couple of reasons. You may be a person traveling around the world, a vacationer, or a member of the military moving to another base. Or you might just be moving to Jamaica for a new beginning. Whatever the case might be, you've planned to ship your car to your new home. 

Your vehicle, be it a car, a van, a track or a motorbike can easily be transported to Jamaica but before you ship it, you need to ensure that the vehicle will arrive safely with no damages or delays. Professional shipping companies like CaribShipping, can help you simplify the process, but you need to do your part too. Use our checklist below before you ship your vehicle and you will feel more than confident handling it to a company!

Measure your vehicle

In order to obtain a quote, you’ll need to check the dimensions of your vehicle. 

Measure the maximum dimensions of the vehicle in each direction:

A - Length [ from end to end]

B - Width [The widest section of the vehicle, including  wide tires or mirrors]

C - Height [this is the tallest part of the vehicle, i.e for trucks is the top exhaust]

D - Make and Model

E - Port of Discharge (Kingston/Montego bay)

Measuring your vehicle before shipping to Jamaica

NOTE: If measurements are not accurate there might be price changes in shipping cost or your vehicle might not be eligible for shipping. If you require us to measure the vehicle, Caribshipping does this for FREE if you visit our office.

Choose your shipping container

There are two methods to ship your vehicle.

1- A high volume metal container for most vehicle types.

Container shipping offers great protection, especially for vintage cars, and involves special ramps that ensure your vehicle remains secure. 

The containers come in two sizes, 20ft, and 40ft. To ship a single car you'd need a 20ft unit. For two cars, a 40ft unit would be the best deal.

You can use the shipping container to move household items abroad, by adding them to the same unit as your car.

 

Shipping vehicles in containers to Jamaica

2 - A Flat Rack system is used for larger vehicles such as trucks.

Flat racks are used mostly to ship oversized vehicles such as trucks, JCB Plant, box vans, and machinery.

 

Flat racks are being built in such a way that they can take harsh weather conditions and very heavy loads up to 40 tonnes

Flat racks can be stacked on a ship once the cargo is within the specified size restrictions and interlock.

Shipping your containers to Jamaica doesn’t have to be a daunting task. When you work with Carib Shipping to handle your London to Jamaica shipping, you can sit back, relax, and watch us tackle the hard work.

Flat rack cargo illustration
Find the right container size for your needs

Declare the duration of the export

The duration you’ll be exporting will determine what documents you’ll need and is required to be declared to the overseas customs and the UK authorities when preparing your vehicle from shipping to Jamaica. 

For vehicles exported for under 12 months, you must apply for a Registration Document (V5) / Certificate (V5C) at a DVLA Local Office using a V62 form and take it with you. If it’s a permanent export for 12 months or more, you must inform the DVLA. 

Research Jamaica’s duties, vehicle tax, and regulations

When your vehicle arrives in Jamaica, it will go through customs and will be inspected before release. This includes custom feed and import duties that need to be paid so ensure you do your research to avoid unexpected costs. That's why when you prepare your vehicle for shipping, is essential to make thorough research on Jamaica's regulations. , In Caribshipping we’re always happy to help with any questions, so feel free to contact us

Have your documentation ready

Before you ship your vehicle to Jamaica you need to put all necessary documents together. You’ll need at least a proof of ownership and your vehicle’s V5 document. In addition, you might as well need a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), valid driving license, photo identification and possibly an export certificate of your vehicle’s history for customs to check if there are any outstanding payments on file. 

 

Having documentation ready when shipping a vehicle to Jamaica

Specifically, these are the documents you need to acquire to be able to ship your vehicle to Jamaica:

1 - The V5 registration document (to ensure the vehicle is not reported stolen and is free of finance, a Police and HPI check will take place).

2 - A car key that will accompany them during transit.

3 - An import license (unless a registered dealer will clear your vehicle)

You will need to obtain a Tax Compliance Certification from the Main Tax office in Jamaica in order to acquire an import license. This is needed to verify whether the person clearing the vehicle has its Tax status up-to-date, with NHW and NIS contributions paid up-to-date. 

4 - Certificate of pre-shipment inspection for the vehicle. 

The Trade Board Ltd will no longer issue import licenses for used vehicles that are imported without a valid pre-exportation inspection certificate by individuals or businesses. As of February 1, 2018 (PSIC).

The PSIC/DDC aims to change the Used Motor Vehicle by guaranteeing the high quality and standard of vehicles imported for use on the roads of Jamaica.

Read more about all the necessary documents here. 

 

And these are the documents that need to be acquired to clear your vehicle when it arrives in Jamaica:

1 - For all motor vehicles or motorcycles, a supplier's invoice in your name is needed.

2 - Bill of Sight. This is a paper that documents descriptions of the car or motorcycles to be imported. It is prepared and signed by a customs broker and is approved by the customs authority.

3 - Simplified Administrative Document (eSad): An electronic document with all the descriptions of the vehicle, the name of the importer, the customs duties, and shipping information. This document must be completed by a licensed customs broker and sent to the customs authority. 

 

Cleaning your vehicle and checking for cosmetic flaws and mechanical faults.

It’s very important to check your vehicle and record any problems when you prepare the vehicle for shipping. If there are any cosmetic flaws or mechanical faults, they could cost you extra money on exporting/importing and the shipping service itself, especially if they’re not reported timely to your shipping company.  

The process of spotting any problems can start from washing the exterior of your vehicle and then proceed with a visual inspection. This will help bring to your attention any cosmetic flaws and faults or even personal items left behind. When your car is clean, walk around the exterior of the vehicle searching for any scratches, discolorations, dents,  or paint chips, and take a photograph of it for your records. It was important to clean your car before the inspection, as dust, dirt, and grime might mask these marks. Do not forget to check the undercarriage for any unexpected leaks.

Cleaning vehicles before shipping them in a container to Jamaica from the UK

Remove everything that’s not essential from the inside. By removing personal items, you are decreasing the risk of loss, damage, and theft. Things like your stereo, any portable equipment, and your GPS can be shipped separately. 

Your vehicle will be lighter and any threat of theft or damage will be minimized.  

Avoiding any damage

Make sure all security systems have been disabled. If you’re shipping a car or van, the aerial and antennas must be removed and the wing mirrors must be folded back, to minimize damage.

Unnecessary items that could be removed are also bike, luggage, and ski racks. It's best to do that when preparing the vehicle for shipping rather than at the last minute. 

Convertible cars need to be secured on the top to avoid any damage from air, debris, or moisture, otherwise, add a wind-resistant tarp. Do not forget to inflate your tires, fully charge the battery, and secure it to its mounting bracket. 

Although all personal belongings should be removed for insurance and safety purposes, certain items may be kept in your car. These include an emergency kit, spare tires, hand and jack tools. It is important to remember that you keep your license plate on your car.

Keeping the automatic parking passes or toll tags activated, you may collect unnecessary fees you could easily avoid by removing them. 

These steps may seem unnecessary tedious now but in the long run, they can save you both time and money

 

Double-check your fluids 

Ensure that the fluids in your vehicle, including water, oil, hydraulic, power steering, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and anti-freeze fluid are all above the minimum level, otherwise, make sure you top them up.

Don’t forget to fully charge the battery and check the tire pressure (tires shouldn’t be under-inflated or over-inflated).

When using a shipping container, your tank should be nearly empty to ¼ to ⅛ full of fuel to save weight. 

Refilling Car Fluids when shipping a vehicle to Jamaica from the UK

Provide instructions for the shipping company and make any special notes for the driver like any special quirks or mechanical problems with your vehicle.

After checking your vehicle, provide instructions to your shipping company for handling the vehicle.

Caribshipping ships a variety of vehicles to Jamaica, and have been doing so for many years. Our expert team will deliver your vehicles safely to Kingston or Montego Bay wharf! 

Need to ship your vehicle to Jamaica? Get a quote!

Moving to Jamaica – Work Permit & Visa [2021 UPDATED]

Finding a Job in Jamaica

Moving to Jamaica is an exciting decision. Jamaica is a developing country with a diverse economic system; that is, the private sector and the state lead the economy. The primary industries are tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and insurance and financial services. Currently, the average monthly salary after taxes is $ 1,000. In addition, English is a widely spoken language in Jamaica.

Employment opportunities for foreigners in Jamaica are somewhat limited, as local residents are theoretically given priority in the workplace to ensure that unemployment does not rise too high. That said, for specialized tasks with complex skills, you’re likely to have better luck. The employer should ask you for a work permit, then you should wait and hope that the Labor and Social Security Department feels generosity. Economic development projects are underway in the Kingston Harbor area, which will also increase employment opportunities.

Construction is also expanding, although most jobs in this sector are being taken by locals. However, if you have specialized skills in this field, you may want to look into employment opportunities.

Working Hours and Benefits in Jamaica

Seven days a week, including Sunday, are now considered working days. The workweek is limited to 40 hours, and you can work up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. You will get overtime if you work outside of these hours.

The minimum wage is 7,000 JMD ($ 52) for a 40-hour workweek.

You are entitled to a maximum of 2 weeks' sickness benefit but the amount depends on how long you work for your employer. If you are pregnant, you are also entitled to 12 weeks of maternity leave if you have worked for your employer for one year but you will be only paid for 8 weeks.

Find a job in Jamaica as a UK expat
Find a job in Jamaica as a UK expat

Annual leave is complex and depends on the length of your work, but on average you are entitled to 2 weeks of leave per year.

Your spouse does not need a work permit if you are a Jamaican citizen, but if you are not, they can’t work on a visa and will need a separate permit if he/she is moving to Jamaica with you. If you are a citizen of the Commonwealth, your dependents (over the age of 18) can apply for a work permit upon arrival in Jamaica.

Requirements to Start Working in Jamaica as an Expat

When moving to Jamaica, without a work permit, you cannot legally work there but you must have a job offer before you can apply to the Labor and Social Security Administration (MLSS). You may apply for a permit at the time of your arrival in the country if you are a citizen of the Commonwealth.  U.S. citizens who are not Commonwealth citizens should ensure that they obtain a work permit before applying for a work visa at the Jamaican Embassy or Consulate.

The requirements mean that your employer will make most of the requests for you, but you will still need to provide:

  • work permit application (you must complete the first part and the employer must do the rest)
  • a letter from the employer describing the nature of the job and the reason why the Jamaican candidate could not be hired
  • your CV (s)
  • your qualifications (you must obtain apostille certificates or diplomas)
  • Updated police inspection
  • 2 photos
  • 2 copies of your passport
  • a complete tax registration request in the form of a tax certificate

You will have to pay an application fee, the amount of which depends on your profession - you can check this with the MLSS.

If you are self-employed, you can apply for a work permit through the MLSS. You will need the following documents:

  • nature and duration of the work
  • certified copies of your credentials
  • 2 passport photos
  • your CV (s)
  • Updated Police Authority File

You will need to pay a non-refundable processing fee of JMD$14,400 (US$109) but you will then need to pay for the permit itself (the duration of the permit determines the cost of it).

Besides your work permit, you'll also need an entry visa: certain countries have mutual visa arrangements with Jamaica, and before you formalize your arrangements you will be allowed to stay on the island for a limited period.

If you have a specialization or other qualifications and experience in the music or mining sectors, you might want to consider Jamaica as an option. Tourism in Jamaica continues to be a booming area: the Tourism Minister has projected that the tourism sector will provide 41,000 new jobs on the island by 2022.

Work permit application Jamaica
Moving to Jamaica? Get your belongings shipped in Barrels safely!

Apply For A Visa/Permit when Moving to Jamaica

If you are planning on visiting, working, or moving to Jamaica, you will need to apply for a visa. Read more about this process below.

Visas

If you are a British citizen, you do not need a visa to visit Jamaica and you are generally entitled to entry for up to 90 days. The date you must leave Jamaica will be stamped on your passport. If you wish to continue your stay after that date, you will have to apply to the Jamaican immigration authorities, but the government says Commonwealth citizens can be granted a maximum period of one year.
If you are a U.S. citizen, you will not need a visa for up to the first six months on the island, and you can request an extension from the immigration authorities.
If you are visiting the island on a cruise, you do not need a visa, although you will need to bring your passport/travel documents.
The Embassy of Jamaica, the High Commission, the Consulate General, or the local consulate is responsible for issuing your Visa for entry.
Only if you have applied for a residence permit you can apply for a long-stay visa. You need to submit your application in person for this kind of visa, and even children under the age of 18 must apply in person.

The following documents are required to apply for a Jamaica Visa:

• Photograph
• Passport (a valid one)
• Your return ticket/itinerary with a re-entry visa for the ones who are not citizens of the current country of residence or an extension ticket to another destination.
• The last statement of your bank account (to provide that you have sufficient funds for your visit).
• Hotel reservation confirmation or any kind of proof that proves you have the appropriate accommodation during your stay in the country.

From the UK, a visa costs £ 25 and an additional £ 7 for return. This must be paid in cash if you apply in person or by postal orders. Currently no personal checks or card payments are accepted.

Admission is $ 100 if you arrive without a visa and need it.

But people arriving at the point of entry without a required visa may be subject to a $ 350 fine.

The cost if you want to extend your stay after the visa waiver period is 50,000 JM ($ 357).

Requests submitted in person must be processed for at least three working days. If your visa application has been returned to the Jamaican authorities for approval or posted, allow processing to take 2-3 weeks.

Work Permits 

You cannot legally work when moving to Jamaica without a work permit, and you must have a job offer before you can apply for it through the Department of Labor and Social Security (MLSS). Please note that if you are a citizen of the Commonwealth, you can apply for a permit upon arrival in the country. If you are a U.S. citizen, you must obtain a work permit before applying at the Jamaican Embassy or Consulate for a work visa.

The requirements mean that your employer will make most of the application for you, but you will need to provide:

You will need to pay an application fee, the amount of which will depend on your profession. The Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MLSS) should verify this. 

You can apply through the MLSS for a work permit if you are a self-employed person. You will need the following documentation:

  • A work permit application (your employer wants to complete the first part, and the remainder)
  • A letter from your employer detailing the nature of the job and the reason why a Jamaican applicant could not be hired
  • Your CV/resume
  • Your qualifications (you will need to get any certificates or diplomas apostilled)
  • An up-to-date police clearance check
  • Two photographs
  • Two copies of your passport
  • A well-completed taxpayer registration application in the form of a tax compliance certificate

You will have to pay a non-refundable processing fee of JMD 14,400 (USD 109) as well as a fee for the permit itself, the price of which depends on the duration of the permit.

Moving to Jamaica? Get your belongings shipped in Boxes safely!

What to Pack in a Barrel

A question we’re getting very often is “What can I pack in my barrels/drums?” or “What items are eligible to be shipped in a barrel to Jamaica?”.

The answer is, pretty much anything. Yes, that’s right. You’re allowed to ship barrels to Jamaica containing all different types of items and goods, as long as they’re not listed in the prohibited items list.

The most important thing to remember is to only pack ready-made products with a long lifespan.

Shipping by the sea can take up to two months, so always be considerate of the type of stuff you’re putting in your barrels.

What to Pack in a Barrel

 

Kitchenware

What to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Kitchenware dishes, utensils, cutlery, cups, pots and pans, jars, tupperware and plastic food containers.

Dishes, utensils, cutlery, cups, pots and pans, jars, tupperware and plastic food containers.

Kitchen Essentials

What to pack in a barrel: Kitchen essentials; food bags, plastic wrap, foil, and food clips

Food bags, plastic wrap, foil, and food clips.

Dried Food

What to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Dried food; dried pasta, noodles, tea bags, dried beans and legumes, rice, couscous, cold and hot drink powders (especially with sugar and milk inside), breakfast cereal, popping corn, biscuits, snacks, health foods and any type of protein powders.

Dried pasta, noodles, tea bags, dried beans and legumes, rice, couscous, cold and hot drink powders (especially with sugar and milk inside), breakfast cereal, popping corn, biscuits, snacks, health foods and any type of protein powders.

Tinned Food

What to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - tinned vegetables and fruits, meat, fish, baked beans, soups, milk and desserts.

Tinned vegetables and fruits, meat, fish, baked beans, soups, milk and desserts.

Jars and Bottle Food

What to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Jars and Bottle Food; Peanut butter, spreads, jams, cooking oil, sauces, condiments, pickles, olives and coffee.

Peanut butter, spreads, jams, cooking oil, sauces, condiments, pickles, olives and coffee.

Household Items

What to pack in a barrel shipping to Jamaica - Household items: sewing kits, washing line, clothes hangers, clothes pins, and hangers.

Sewing kits, washing line, clothes hangers, clothes pins, and hangers.

 

Toiletries

What to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Toiletries; shampoo, shower gel, liquid soap, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, face cream, body lotion, face scrub / wash, deodorant, suntan lotion, cotton wool, earbuds, and razors.

Shampoo, shower gel, liquid soap, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, face cream, body lotion, face scrub / wash, deodorant, suntan lotion, cotton wool, earbuds, and razors.

Cleaning Materials

What to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Cleaning materials and detergents; washing up liquid, washing detergent for clothing, bleach, sponges, cloths, pot scrubbers and any other cleaning material.

Washing up liquid, washing detergent for clothing, bleach, sponges, cloths, pot scrubbers and any other cleaning material.

First Aid

What to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - First aid; plasters (band-aids) bandages, antiseptic cream, allergy relief, tape, muscle rub, pain pills, flu/cold remedies, vitamins, bite relief, insect repellent, sickness relief, and rehydration salts.

Plasters (band-aids) bandages, antiseptic cream, allergy relief, tape, muscle rub, pain pills, flu/cold remedies, vitamins, bite relief, insect repellent, sickness relief, and rehydration salts.

 

Clothing & Soft Furnishing

What to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Soft Furnishing; blankets, covers, bed sheets, shower curtains, curtains, towels, and bath mats.

Any type of clothing and apparel, as well as soft furnishing, from blankets, covers, bed sheets, shower curtains, curtains, to towels and bath mats.

 

School Supplies

School Supplies: pens, pencils, colored pencils, pencil cases, backpacks, notebooks, craft supplies, sketch pad, books, educational aids, other school supplies.

Pens, pencils, colored pencils, pencil cases, backpacks, notebooks, craft supplies, sketch pad, books, educational aids, other school supplies.

 

Hurricane Supplies

What to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Hurricane supplies: flash light, candles, rope, tarpaulin, umbrella, rain poncho, water boots, batteries, vessels to hold water, and counter-top gas plate (WARNING: DO NOT include the GAS cylinder!)

Flash light, candles, rope, tarpaulin, umbrella, rain poncho, water boots, batteries, vessels to hold water, and counter-top gas plate (WARNING: DO NOT include the GAS cylinder!)

That was a brief list of plausible items to pack in a barrel. Of course, there are many more items and goods that can be shipped. If you have any doubts regarding your items eligibility you can contact us.

Looking to Buy Quality Barrels for your Items?

What NOT to Pack in a Barrel

 

Food that Needs Refrigeration

What NOT to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Do not pack any items that need to be refrigerated, such as meat, fish, cheese, or other dairy products

Do not pack any items that need to be refrigerated, such as meat, fish, cheese, or other dairy products.

 

Fresh Food / Plants / Live Animals

What NOT to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Do not pack any fresh vegetables or fruits, flowers or plants, any forms of live animals; including birds (iand eggs) / sea life / reptiles / insects or other organisms!

Do not pack any fresh vegetables or fruits, flowers or plants, any forms of live animals; including birds (iand eggs) / sea life / reptiles / insects or other organisms!

Baked Goods / Microwave Food

What NOT to pack in a barrel - Do not pack any freshly prepared products, or partialy cooked foods, such as breads and baked goods, pizza and pastry items, microwave and oven meals, and fast food

Do not pack any freshly prepared products, or partialy cooked foods, such as breads and baked goods, pizza and pastry items, microwave and oven meals, and fast food.

Flammables and Explosives

What NOT to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Do not pack anything that is flammable, corrosive, explosive or dangerous in any way!

Do not pack anything that is flammable, corrosive, explosive or dangerous in any way!

Matches/ Wet Batteries / Fireworks

What NOT to pack in a Barrel to Jamaica - Do not pack lighters, matches, gas cylinders of any kind, wet batteries (vehicle batteries) and fireworks.

Do not pack lighters, matches, gas cylinders of any kind, wet batteries (vehicle batteries) and fireworks.

Other commonly prohibited items include:

 

  • Plants
  • Perishable items
  • Drugs
  • Intoxicating beverages
  • Meat products
  • Tobacco
  • Firearms
  • Animals

Full list here.

Ready to Ship your Items to Jamaica?

Jamaican Language and Common Phrases

What languages are spoken in Jamaica?

The most commonly spoken language is Jamaican English, and then Jamaican Patois.

Jamaican English is the official language of Jamaica and is widely used in media, education, government, and business. The English used in Jamaica has mostly British grammar and spelling in its colonial history, but American English has also changed it over the years.

The majority of Jamaicans do not speak English as a mother language but learn it as a second language in school, the first being Jamaican Patois.

The most widely spoken language in the country is Jamaican Patois (also known as Patwa and Jamaican Creole).  While Jamaica is the official language, many Jamaicans speak Patois in their day-to-day casual conversations. Compared to 50,000 English-speaking Jamaicans, 2.7 million speak Jamaican, a kind of Creole English born during the slave trade. 

The Jamaican Patois is a blend of African languages, English, Arawak (the original Jamaican language), Portuguese, French, Irish, Chinese, Spanish, and Scottish. It was considered to be the worst language in its history but it has since been regarded as the language of liberty and independence in Jamaican history.

In addition to English and Jamaican Patois, what language do the Jamaicans speak, if anything? Arawakan, spoken by the indigenous people known as Taino, is Jamaica's only living indigenous language.

Jamaican boy with green eyes - Burning the culture barriers
Learning Jamaican language concept. Young woman standing with the Jamaica flag in the background. Teacher holding books, orange blank book cover.

Learning the Jamaican Language

 

It is good to learn a couple of phrases and words Jamaicans use in their everyday conversations when planning a vacation in Jamaica or start doing business there.

The official language of Jamaica is English, which means that tourists to Jamaica who speak English have no trouble interacting entirely with the local population. But learning more about Jamaican ducks can help you connect with the local people and make your journey or business a more positive experience.

It's not about mastering the local language to speak it fluently. To the local people you meet and communicate with on your journey, attempts to respect the local style of speech should be courteous.

If you take the time to listen to it you can easily understand the dialect. When the speaker is excited, words normally emerge fairly rapidly, but when there is a general conversation, the words come out much more slowly and are easier to understand.

"Patois" from Jamaica is conveyed as much by gesture and drama as by rhythm and sound. This is how people exchange thoughts and emotions with very passionate people. The language appeared as the voice of a special and proud people, far more than a means of communication.

Common Phrases in the Jamaican Language

Some common Jamaican phrases you might come across or find useful:

 

  • ‘Small up yuhself’

A good phrase to know when using crowded buses or taxis. It simply means making space.

Notice how similar it looks to the English phrase “Small up yourself”. 

 

  • ‘Weh Yuh Ah Seh’

The translation of the word to English is equal to "What are you saying?" or otherwise "How are you doing?" The sentence can also be spelled as' weh yaw seh.'

 

  • ‘Inna di morrows’

Used for saying goodbye.    "Tomorrow" will be the literal version, which means "see you later."

 

  • ‘Boonoonoonoos’

Boonoonoonoos is a word for love in the Jamaican language. In Engish, this means "special person". When visiting Jamaica, if you have a loved one with you, we suggest calling them a  "boonoonoonoos friend" to share your feelings. It is often used to denote things or objects that are also pleasant.

Jamaican man walking on the coast holding the Jamaican flag
  • ‘Mi Soon Come’

Literally, the Jamaican word means: I am there. But don't be mistaken if you’re told to come soon. The island's weather is much more slow and sluggish than the rest of the planet, so this expression could be interpreted from a few hours to a few days.

 

  • ‘Wah Gwaan’

If you heard the speech of former US President Barack Obama when he visited Jamaica ahead of his second term, you might have heard him greet his audience using this phrase. It is an informal welcome which means “How are you?” or “What’s up?”.

 

  • ‘Kick Up Rumpus’

Kick-up rumpus means getting a nice riotous time. It was also the title of Colourman and Jackie Knockshot's hit 1985 album.

 

  • ‘Lickkle more’

In other words, ‘see you later’ or ‘goodbye’. For example, mi see yuh likkle more den – means I’ll see you later then.

 

  • ‘Irie’

To say "all is well," the Jamaican proverb "Irie" is also used. Be conscious that to greet others, Jamaica has several varieties. When someone asks "How are you?", "My Irie" would be a reasonable response.

 

  • ‘Ya Mon’

"Man" is an important word in the Jamaican language for the locals and is often used when you speak to someone, whether it is a child or adult. "No problem" or "yes" is the English version of the Jamaican word "ya mon". For instance, if someone suggests to you a rum runner, you may want to say "Ya, mi!"

 

  • ‘Chaka-Chaka’

Chaka-chaka is used when something is being perceived as low performing, disorganized, and messy.

 

Jamaican Currency and Exchange Rate to British Pounds

Jamaican Currency (J$ or JA$)

Jamaican Currency and Jamaican Dollars

The official currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar (J $ or JA $). Jamaican banknotes have a face value of $ 100, $ 500, $ 1,000 and $ 5,000. Jamaican coins have a face value of $ 1, $ 5, $ 10, and $ 20 (older coins that currently have no real value but are still legal are denominated in 1, 10, and 25 Jamaican cents).

Most Jamaican places, even in remote areas of the island related to the tourism industry, accept Jamaican dollars and US dollars.

Places that are far from the main tourist areas, far from Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, etc., and that are not related to the tourism industry, usually use only Jamaican dollars.

 

Exchanging British Pound to Jamaican Dollars

Jamaican dollars are available from banks, stock exchanges and hotels. However, because each merchant can set their own exchange rate, places located outside tourist areas usually offer very low exchange rates for all foreign currencies if they usually price their goods and services in Jamaican dollars.  Also, be careful with airport exchange rates. Credit and debit cards are accepted in major tourist areas, and Jamaican dollars can be withdrawn from ATMs.

However, holding cash British pounds still requires conversion. The British Pound is a highly convertible currency. The same goes for the Euro and the Canadian dollar. If you have pounds, you have two options.

You can only convert them to U.S. dollars if you plan to use this currency first, but we recommend that you convert them directly to Jamaican dollars. The use of Jamaican dollars is often cheaper in smaller guest houses, local shops, and restaurants because of local exchange rates.

What to be aware of when exchanging Jamaican currency

Exchanging British Pounds to Jamaican Currency

You should also exchange Jamaican coins back to your local currency, if possible, before leaving Jamaica, as they won’t have any when you return home. We recommend that you convert only the amount you need to avoid charging two exchange fees (fees for converting currency into Jamaican dollars or US dollars and then back to British pounds).

Also, do not Convert British Pounds to US Dollars in your home country, and then Convert US Dollars to Jamaican Dollars in Jamaica. Avoid additional conversion fees by converting only from British Pounds to Jamaican Dollars or US Dollars, and preferably do the conversion in Jamaica.

Note: The Scottish Pound is not considered a highly convertible currency in Jamaica. They need to be converted to British Pounds in the UK if you plan to bring pound banknotes to Jamaica if you move there or on holiday.

What are the Parishes in Jamaica to Ship Barrels to? 

Wondering what are the parishes in Jamaica to ship barrels to? The island is divided into three counties – Cornwall, Middlesex, and Surrey – which are divided into 14 parishes.Located in the extreme southeast of the island, Kingston is Jamaica's capital, Kingston is Jamaica's largest city and capital, and an important commercial port. Each parish has a capital city, typically the center of commerce, and two parish capitals, Montego Bay in St. James and Kingston, have city status. Here is a list with all 14 parishes and their capitals, along with the price to ship a barrel door to door to each one of them. 

Surrey

Surrey County in Jamaica Map

Parish: Kingston, Capital: Kingston 

Parish: St. Andrew, Capital: Half Way Tree

Parish: Portland, Capital: Port Antonio 

Parish: St. Thomas, Capital: Morant Bay 

Middlesex

Middlesex County in Jamaica Map

Parish: St. Catherine, Capital: Spanish Town

Parish: Manchester, Capital: Mandeville

Parish: St Mary, Capital: Port Maria

Parish: St. Ann, Capital: St. Ann’s Bay

Parish: Clarendon, Capital: May Pen

Cornwall

Cornwall County in Jamaica Map

Parish: Trelawny, Capital: Falmouth

Parish: St. James, Capital: Montego Bay

Parish: Hanover, Capital: Lucea

Parish: Westmoreland, Capital: Savanna-La-Mar

Parish: St. Elizabeth, Capital: Black River

 

JAMAICA CLEARING AGENTS & RELEASING COSTS CALCULATOR

Detailed Jamaican Map

Jamaican Parishes Map
Check our Door to Door Shipping Service to any Jamaican Parish!

Kingston Parish in Jamaica

Kingston, Jamaica - Wikipedia

The capital of Jamaica, Kingston, is the smallest but most populous city on the island. It is in front of the world’s seventh-largest natural harbor, protected by the Palisadoes, a long sandy spit that connects the city of Port Royal and Norman Manley International Airport to other islands.

Colonel Barryn Hog ​​Crawle founded Kingston on July 22, 1692, as a refuge from the June 7 earthquake that destroyed two-thirds of Port Royal. Before the earthquake, Port Royal was home to English buccaneers and was known as the “worst” city in the world for the unbridled lives of the townspeople, including the private Sir Henry Morgan. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to Kingston Parish in Jamaica from £220 

St.Andrew Parish in Jamaica

St. Andrew was one of the first congregations in Jamaica to be established by law in 1867. Before its founding, it was known as "Liguanea," which was the word for the iguana Taino. St.Andrew is north, west, and east of Kingston. As Kingston's popularity grew, wealthy Kingston residents began buying an old "pen" from St.Andrew's. Corral "Originally a farm where cattle were raised, and until recently there were still many areas in St.Andrew called corals." "Plume" was soon considered a derogatory term for people's residences, and many of these enclosures were renamed "gardens". Ship a Barrel Door to Door to St. Andrew Parish in Jamaica from £220

 

Portland Parish in Jamaica

Portland Parish 2020: Best of Portland Parish, Jamaica Tourism - Tripadvisor

Portland is a parish that’s located on the northeast coast of Jamaica. It is located north of St. Thomas and east of St. Mary. The parish is known for its natural scenery, beautiful beaches, lush trees, numerous caves and rivers, and the top of the Blue Mountains.

Ship a Barrel Door to Door to Portland Parish in Jamaica from £230

 

St. Thomas Parish in Jamaica

Descending from the peaceful heights of the Blue Mountains to the pristine coast of southeastern Jamaica, St. Thomas Parish is one of the most beautiful on the island. It is bordered on the west by St. Andrew, on the north by Portland, and on the south by the Caribbean Sea. St. Thomas is bordered on the west by St. Andrew, on the north by Portland, and on the south by the Caribbean Sea. The land of St. Thomas stretches from the peaks of the Blue Mountains and Mount John Crow to sea level. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to St. Thomas in Jamaica from £220

 

St. Catherine Parish in Jamaica

The parish of St. Catherine is located on the south coast east of the parishes of San Andrew, to the west between Clarendon and the north between St. Ana and St. María.

St. Catherine was founded in 1867 when four small congregations came together and elected Queen Katherine (Catherine) of Charles II.

The parish has long been a center of population. There lived the pre-Columbian Tainos, followed by the Spaniards who built their capital, San Jago de la Vega (now a Spanish city). Today, Sainte-Catherine is the second most populous and fastest-growing congregation with a large industrial and agricultural industry. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to St. Catherine in Jamaica from £220

 

St. Manchester Parish in Jamaica

Manchester is located in the south of Jamaica. To the east is Clarendon Parish, while St. Elizabeth to the west and Trelawny to the north. 

On November 29, 1814, in the early 19th century, farmers at Clarendon Cafes, St. Elizabeth, and the hills of the then Blood Parish to form a separate parish.

In the days before the abolition of slavery, the population of Manchester was never as large as the surrounding parishes, because the mountainous terrain was unsuitable for growing sugar, which was the most profitable crop on the island at that time.

In 1942, Manchester was found to be one of the largest bauxite reserves in the country. Bauxite is a red mineral that is processed to produce alumina and finally aluminum. This discovery contributed to the growth and creation of the bauxite and aluminum industries in Manchester, which encouraged the rapid development of the church and, in particular, of Mandeville.

Today, Manchester's economy is deeply rooted in both bauxite and agriculture. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to Manchester in Jamaica from £230

 

St. Mary Parish in Jamaica

St. Mary borders Portland to the east, St. Anne to the west, and parts of St. Catherine and St. Andrew to the south.

St. Mary is known as one of the first parts of the island to be occupied by the Spaniards.

In 1760, around Port Maria, the most significant rebellion in Jamaican history erupted and ultimately spread to most of the island.

At the beginning of the 19th century, the parish had 63 sugar factories, but just three at the end of the century.

As sugar fell, banana cultivation came to a standstill. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to St. Mary in Jamaica from £220

 

St. Ann in JamaicaElevation of Saint Ann Parish, Jamaica - Topographic Map - Altitude Map

St. Ann, II. It is named after the wife of King James of England and is the largest of all parishes. It is known as the "Garden Parish" for its bauxite production, agriculture, and animal husbandry, and especially for its tourist attractions.

The parish is the oldest city in Taino / Arawak, Jamaica. When Christopher Columbus first arrived in Jamaica in 1494, he named the place where he first landed at Horseshoe Bay because of the peculiar shape of the land.

Located on the north coast of the island, St. Ann is bordered by the parish of St. Mary on the east and the parish of Trelawny on the west. Its southern boundaries are shared between the parishes of St. Catherine and Clarendon. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to St. Ann in Jamaica from £230

 

Clarendon

Named after the Lord Chancellor, Clarendon Earl Edward Hyde. and one of the youngest congregations in Jamaica, Clarendon was formed from a combination of three congregations: St. Dorothy's, Vere, and Clarendon's Old Parish. Before the merger, its capital was Chapelton. Clarendon is also home to the largest agricultural fair in the Caribbean - the Denbigh Agricultural Show.

Clarendon is located about halfway between the eastern and western ends of the island, in southern Jamaica. Its neighbors are St. Ann in the north, Manchester in the west, St. Catherine in the east, and the Caribbean Sea in the south. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to Clarendon in Jamaica from £230

 

Trelawny Parish in JamaicaTrelawny Parish 2020: Best of Trelawny Parish, Jamaica Tourism - Tripadvisor

Trelawny is bordered on the east by St Ann, on the west by St James, and the south by the parishes of St Elizabeth and Manchester.

The congregation, founded in 1770, was named after former Jamaican governor William Trelawny.

Trelawny has the indigenous peoples of the parish. The southern part of Trelawny is part of the Cockpit Land and is uninhabited. Therefore, it is a natural reserve of flora and fauna

With new attractions such as Falmouth Cruise Pier and a multi-purpose resort, Trelawny gets a well-deserved announcement among the benefits of tourism as it is one of the most attractive places in a highly competitive industry. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to Trelawny in Jamaica from £230

 

St. James Parish in Jamaica

Located in the extreme northwest of Jamaica, St. James is a suburban parish bordered by Trelawny to the east, To the south, St. Elizabeth, and to the west, Hanover and Westmoreland.

St. James was one of the congregational groups founded in Jamaica and is said to have been called Sir Thomas Modyford around 1655 by the Duke of York (who later became the ruling ruler of James II).

Also, the capital of the parish, Montego Bay, saw the last act of slave revolt on the island before it was released. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to St. James in Jamaica from £265

 

Hanover Parish in Jamaica

Hanover is moving around the extreme northwest of the island. It is situated to the west of St. James and the north of Westmoreland. The capital Lucea is situated in a beautiful harbor 25 miles west of the Bay of Montego and between the Halfway between the Bay of Montego and Negril.

The second smallest congregation in Jamaica, Hanover, was established in 1725 and named after George I, the reigning ruler of the British throne, who had come from the Hanoverian house in Germany.

Hanover often gets no recognition for its elegance and charm, and the nearby Montego Bay tourist destination is also overshadowed. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to Hanover in Jamaica from £265

 

Westmoreland Parish in Jamaica Negril Photos - Featured Images of Negril, Westmoreland Parish - Tripadvisor

Located on the west end of the island, Westmoreland is bordered to the north by the parish of Hannover and to the east by St. Elizabeth and St. Jacob.

The settlers called this parish Westmoreland in 1703 when the English captured the island from Spanish rule in 1665; it was probably named the westernmost point of the island. The capital, Savanna-la-Mar, became a port from which sugar was exported and dates from 1730.

The parish has dry and fertile land and a shallow relief that is well suited to sugar cane.

The wetlands, which are common to Westmoreland Parish, serve as a natural sanctuary for Jamaica's wildlife. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to Westmoreland in Jamaica from £265

 

St. Elizabeth Parish in Jamaica

St. Elizabeth is located in the extreme southwestern part of Jamaica, bounded on the north by James and Trelawny, the Caribbean Sea to the south, Westmoreland Parish to the west, and Manchester to the east.

St.Elizabeth is one of the oldest congregations in Jamaica. Originally containing much of the western part of the island, it was divided into parts of Westmoreland and Manchester in 1703 and 1814, respectively. Saint Elizabeth was named in honor of Lady Lady Modyford, wife of Jamaican Governor Sir Thomas Modyford from 1664 to 1671.

This small Black River town, now the parish capital, boasts its popularity in the 19th and early 20th centuries as a venue for fishing, colorful dances, and celebrations, often held at the ‘Court-House’ and its annual circus. which attracted visitors from afar.

The Black River, one of the oldest towns on the island, is the first to receive electricity.

Although the social situation has changed significantly, the parish has made progress in agricultural production, which provides most of Jamaica’s fruit and vegetable supplies. Ship a Barrel Door to Door to St. Elizabeth in jamaica from £265

 

Do you have any questions regarding the parishes in Jamaica to ship your barrels to? Feel free to contact us.

 

Looking to Ship your Items to Jamaica Affordably?

How much tax do I have to pay?

How much tax do I have to pay?

When shipping your barrels from the UK to Jamaica, there is a variety of different taxes needed to be paid before the shipment makes it to the final destination.

Every order is different. Every barrel is unique and comes with its own set of circumstances and pricing associated with it.  Therefore, we cannot give you a clear answer of the final amount as there are so many different variables that determine the final cost.

To save you confusion and headaches we’ve started delivering Door to Door from the UK to Jamaica, we’re clearing the items at the wharf and pre-paying all the fees and taxes on your behalf. Have a look here.

1. Import Duty/Customs Duty

This is the tax payable on imported goods. The rates of duty are published in the Jamaica Customs Tariff, which can be purchased from Jamaica Printing Services at 77 ½ Duke Street, Kingston, Telephone (876) 967-2250; www.jps1992@cwjamaica.com.

2. Stamp Duty

Postage Stamps amounting to the value of Jamaican Five Dollars ($5) must be affixed to receipts with a Cost Insurance and Freight (c.i.f.) value of Five Thousand Five Hundred Jamaican Dollars (J$5,500) and less. For receipts with values above this range, One Hundred Dollars ($100) worth of stamps must be affixed.

3. Additional Stamp Duty (ASD)

Additional stamp duty is payable on certain items e.g., chicken and most chicken parts, pork and some pork products, beef and some beef products; some aluminum products, alcoholic beverages, and cigarettes.

4. General Consumption Tax (GCT) and Special Consumption Tax (SCT)

The General Consumption Tax Act provides for two main types of taxes

These are the General Consumption Tax (GCT) and Special Consumption Tax (SCT).

Since October 22, 1991, the General Consumption Tax (GCT) and Special Consumption Tax (SCT) have replaced several duties and taxes, e.g., Excise Duty, CARICOM Duty, Consumption Duty, Entertainment Duty, Retail Sales Tax, Hotel Accommodation Tax and Telephone Service Tax.

GCT is paid on goods and services except for those items that are zero-rated and those that are exempted from GCT. Zero-rated items are items that attract 0% GCT. Exempted items are items that do not attract GCT.

SCT is payable on a few items. These are alcoholic beverages, most tobacco products, and some petroleum products.

Most items attract only GCT, while some attract both GCT and SCT.

5. Standard Compliance Fee (SCF)

This is a fee of 0.3% collected on behalf of the Bureau of Standards. SCF is calculated on the CIF value.

6. Customs Administrative Fee (CAF)

The Customs Administrative Fee is payable on the processing of documents, the examination of goods, and on specific imported commodities.

7. Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF)

Cost: This is the total cost of the goods abroad including ex-factory price, commission, mark-up, and inland freight but excluding sales tax and interest. The cost of the goods is sometimes expressed as FOB (Free on Board) or FOA (Free on Air)

Insurance: This is the insurance charge which is payable to transport the goods to Jamaica in order to ensure that some compensation will be available to you in the event of the loss or damage of the goods.

If you have not paid any insurance charges when freighting your goods to Jamaica, an insurance charge is still applicable for valuation purposes. For goods arriving by sea, the insurance charge is 1.5% of the total Cost and Freight(c. & f.), that is, if the goods cost US$100 and the freight charge is US$50, then C&F would be US$100 + US$50 = US$150. 1.5% of US$150, i.e. 150 x 3/200 = US$2.25.

Total c.i.f. therefore is $100 + $50 + $2.25 = US$152.25.

For shipments arriving by air, the insurance applicable is 1% of the Total Cost and Freight. The insurance rate of 1.5% is applicable to marine cargo.

Freight: This is the amount of money paid or payable to the shipping agent or the airlines for the goods to be shipped or transported to Jamaica, including inland freight, packaging and handling charges.

8. Environmental Levy

0.5% of the CIF value of all imports

Note: If you’re shipping cargo and it’s at Berth 5 or 6 Warehouses, you will need to pay the KWL charges at the Kingsport Building.
_______________________________
In a brief;  The fees involved may include Landing Fees, which are paid to the clearing local Agent. Expect to pay about JA $3,700.00.
Handling and Storage Fees, paid to Kingston Wharf, maybe about JA $4,630.00.
Import Fees, such as customs duties, paid to Kingston Wharf might run around JA $6,500.00 .
Barrels containing “Personal Effects” or “Non-commercial” items attract a flat rate charge of JMD $6,500.00 (rate is subject to change). This roughly currently equates to about 38 Pound sterling.
Too much hassle? Try our “Door to Door” shipping service from the UK to Jamaica, and get your barrels delivered to your recipient’s door without paying extra for taxes. We cover ALL taxes for you. 

Contact us for more useful information related to taxes and customs to clear in Jamaica using one of our social links below.

How to Read the Sailing Schedule when Shipping from UK to Jamaica

At Caribshipping, we offer fast, efficient shipping to Jamaica, with shipments sent out on a fortnightly basis. We require all barrels to be collected at least two days before the shipment is due to leave, to avoid any delays and ensure that the shipment is ready to depart on the UK sailing date.

There is a traditional trade route between the UK and Jamaica – Kingston and Montego Bay, making it possible to ship all types of cargo, including large container shipments for  furniture and vehicles or barrel shipments for toiletries and food. Find out more about the shipment services we offer in Caribshipping .

The sailing schedule from UK to Jamaica can be found here.

But how do I navigate all these different cells, you’ll ask. Let’s go through the different columns on the table:

Closing Date: This is the first thing you should consider before shipping. That means that your goods need need to be with us at our depot prior to the closing date. There is a closing day every 7 days. If the current day is 17/02 and the next closing day is 17/02, there is little time for placing an order, and getting your barrels/cargo collected for shipping. We highly recommend having your barrels ready for shipment and the collection date arranged at least 2 days before the closing date.
In this case, the next available closing day at 24/02 would be ideal.

Make sure you calculate the actual amount of time needed for your items to be collected.

Reading the Sailing Schedule from UK to Jamaica

UK Sailing Date:  This is the date your barrels/cargo will leave the UK and sail to Jamaica.  So you have to work out your dates in reverse.

If you want your goods to be available by, eg, 05/04/21 (if shipping to Montego Bay), you would have to book a collection with us no later than 21/02/21 to ensure we can have your goods at our depot before the closing date of 24/02/20. We will then load your goods into a shipping container. Your goods will leave the UK wharf on 03/03/21.

Estimated Arrival to Kingston: This is an estimated arrival day of your goods to Kingston wharf. The actual arrival day might differ based on circumstances or special events. It usually takes about a month.

Earliest pick up date Kingston: After your goods arrive at Kingston wharf, allow further and sufficient time for goods to be out turned and cleared before you’re able to pick them up. That usually takes 6 days. From the date listed and afterwards, feel free to visit the wharf to pick up your stuff.

Estimated arrival to Montego Bay: This is an estimated arrival day of your goods to Montego Bay wharf. The actual arrival day might differ based on circumstances or special events. It usually takes about a month.

Earliest pick up date Montego Bay: After your goods arrive to Montego Bay, allow further and sufficient time for goods to be out turned and cleared before you’re able to pick them up. That usually takes 6 days. From the date listed and afterwards, feel free to visit the wharf to pick up your stuff.

If there are empty fields on estimated arrivals, that means the specific shipment is destined for only one of the wharfs, either Kingston or Montego Bay.

For any questions regarding the Sailing Schedule from UK to Jamaica. feel free to contact us.