First thing’s first, you’ll need to tell the pesky tax man you’re importing a vehicle by making an Import Declaration to HMRC (CARS Europe can do this for you):
- HMRC will let you know if you’re required to pay TAX or duty. How much you pay depends on the type of vehicle and the reason for importing.
- You’ll then need to apply for Vehicle Approval.
- After that you’ll be required to Register and Tax the vehicle with the DVLA as per usual.
Are the rules different for importing classics?
- Vehicles over 30 years old are automatically eligible for duty relief and reduced VAT. Yay!
- If the vehicle is more than ten years old, you may not need to get vehicle approval before registering and taxing with the DVLA.
- If the vehicle has been rebuilt or modified the DVLA may give it a new VIN, a ‘Q’ registration number and will mention the modifications on the vehicle logbook (V5C).
What paperwork do I need to import a vehicle to the UK?
For an import declaration:
- C88/E2 customs documents (unless you’re travelling via the Channel Tunnel or ferry).
- Invoice or bill of sale for the vehicle. The seller of the vehicle will need to produce an invoice if required for importing a vehicle. Car & Classic are also able to provide a bill of sale if needed, or provide a template for an invoice. Alternatively, you can draft your own here.
- An official document which confirms the VIN or chassis number of the vehicle (such as the original vehicle registration document or Certificate of Conformity available from the original manufacturer).
For vehicle approval:
- European Certificate of Conformity from the original manufacturer (if it’s registered in the EU).
- Certificate of GB conversion Individual Vehicle Approval (if it’s left-hand drive or registered outside the EU).
For registering and taxing your vehicle:
- Your vehicle approval certificate.
- A document showing the date the vehicle was collected.
- The original foreign registration certificate to show when the vehicle was manufactured.
You can also read more here.
Don’t forget, CARS Europe is here to help and can arrange everything for you. Learn more at https://www.carseurope.net