Shipping from United Kingdom to Spain: times, customs & tracking
How long parcels take, what customs expects, and how to track every step of the journey.
Typical delivery times
| Service | Working days |
|---|---|
| Postal (Royal Mail → Correos) | 4–12 |
| Express (DHL, DPD, UPS) | 2–5 |
| Parcel networks | 5–10 |
| Heavy / freight | 6–15 |
Customs & duties
Post-Brexit, parcels from the UK to Spain are imports: 21% VAT applies (IOSS covers platforms like Etsy/eBay when used), plus duties above €150. Royal Mail hands over to Correos after customs clearance.
Tracking tips
"Langley HWDC" means your parcel left the UK sorting hub — after that, expect 2–6 days before a Correos scan in Spain.
FAQs — United Kingdom to Spain
How long do UK parcels take to Spain after Brexit?
Postal 4–12 days (customs is the variable step), express 2–5 days.
Do UK orders pay customs to Spain?
Yes: 21% VAT always (unless prepaid via IOSS) and duties above €150.
Who delivers after customs?
Correos for postal mail; DHL/DPD/UPS for express consignments.
Why does my tracking stop at the UK border?
Export scans end at the departure hub; the next update comes from the Spanish side after customs entry.