Import a Car to the UK
Whether you are importing from the USA, Japan, Europe, or anywhere else in the world, ShipMyCar handles every step of bringing your vehicle to UK roads.
How Does Car Importing Work?
Thinking about importing a car to the UK? Get an instant car transport quote to see your costs. We have been helping people import vehicles since 2006, handling thousands of imports from the USA, Japan, Germany, and beyond.
Whether you have bought a classic American muscle car, a JDM import from Japan, or a European luxury vehicle, our car shipping UK expertise will guide you through every step.
Calculate Your Import Costs
Complete UK Import Services
From shipping to registration, we offer everything you need to get your vehicle UK road-legal.
International Vehicle Shipping
Secure and reliable shipping for your car to the UK from anywhere in the world. We manage all logistics including collection, loading, and sea or air freight.
UK Customs Clearance
Expert handling of all UK customs procedures including import duty, VAT, and NOVA declarations, ensuring a smooth entry for your vehicle.
IVA Testing and Modifications
Comprehensive IVA testing and vehicle modification services to ensure your car meets all UK safety and environmental standards.
DVLA Registration
Complete DVLA registration service including V5C logbook application and obtaining UK number plates. Your imported vehicle, fully road-legal.
From Port to UK Roads
Once your vehicle arrives in the UK, here is what happens next.
Customs Clearance
HMRC paperwork, import duty and VAT payment, NOVA declaration submitted.
Vehicle Unloading
Container destuffing or RoRo collection at our Milton Keynes facility.
Testing and Mods
IVA testing, GB IVA Conversion, or MOT depending on vehicle age and origin.
DVLA Registration
V5C logbook and UK number plates. Your car is now fully road-legal.
Import Taxes and Duties
- Import Duty: 10% of vehicle value
Reduced to 5% for classic cars over 30 years old
- VAT: 20% on total value
Calculated on vehicle plus duty plus shipping costs
- Transfer of Residence exemption
Tax exemption may apply if relocating to the UK
Already Applied for Registration?
Waiting for your V5C logbook? Use our free VIN lookup to check if your vehicle is now registered with DVLA.
Check Registration StatusCommon Import Questions
What are the steps to import a car to the UK?
The main steps include: 1) Shipping the vehicle to the UK, 2) Customs clearance and paying import duties/VAT, 3) NOVA declaration, 4) IVA testing or MOT (depending on vehicle age), 5) Any necessary modifications for UK compliance, and 6) DVLA registration to get UK number plates.
How much does it cost to import a car to the UK?
Costs vary depending on the vehicle origin, value, and age. Main costs include shipping fees, import duty (typically 10%), VAT (20%), testing and modifications, and registration fees. Use our instant quote calculator for a detailed breakdown specific to your vehicle.
Do all imported cars need IVA testing?
Vehicles less than 10 years old from outside the EU typically require IVA testing. EU vehicles may need GB IVA Conversion (formerly Mutual Recognition). Cars over 10 years old usually only need an MOT test.
Can ShipMyCar handle the entire import process?
Yes, we offer comprehensive import packages covering everything from international collection to UK road-ready delivery. We can also provide individual services if you have already completed some steps yourself.
Recent UK Imports
A selection of vehicles we have recently imported and registered in the UK.
Ready to Import Your Car?
Get a complete quote for shipping, customs, testing, and registration. We handle everything so you do not have to.
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