There are several reasons for wanting to import a car from the US to the UK. Perhaps it's a desire for unique or classic models unavailable in the UK, better pricing options, nostalgia (especially if you used to live in the US), or for business reasons, such as reselling rare models for a profit. Whatever your reason, it is important to understand the intricacies involved in the import process to avoid potential, and usually very frustrating, problems down the line. From import regulations, taxes, and duties to necessary vehicle modifications, several hurdles have to be crossed before you can actually drive your American car in England.
Research and Verify Import Regulations
The first step to take before importing a car from America is to thoroughly research the necessary import regulations. When you import a vehicle into the UK, you must notify His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) within 14 days; failure to do so can result in fines. However, cars with a 48cc engine or less (or 7.2kw or less for electric vehicles) can be imported and registered without telling HMRC first. The process for notifying HMRC varies depending on what part of the UK you are importing the car to and whether you're a VAT-registered business.
If you're importing into Great Britain or Northern Ireland, you must make an import declaration using the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) and notify HMRC through the Notification of Vehicle Arrivals (NOVA) service. VAT-registered businesses must use the NOVA to notify HMRC, while private individuals and non-VAT-registered companies can have HMRC or an agent handle the NOVA application. If you previously owned the vehicle in the UK or are transferring your residence, you may be eligible for reduced import duties and VAT.
It is important to note that the UK has specific requirements for vehicles that may be allowed into the country, especially regarding emissions and safety features. As such, you must confirm that the car you intend to import meets these standards, bearing in mind that the UK follows strict EU emissions regulations, which differ from those obtainable in the US. Determining whether the car requires modifications for compliance with UK standards is another crucial aspect to consider when importing a car from America; if the vehicle does not initially comply, modifications may be necessary.
You should consider consulting with a professional who specializes in shipping cars from the US to the UK to help you navigate these requirements effectively.
Obtain Necessary Documentation
The next step to take when importing a car into the UK is gathering the necessary documentation, which is crucial for compliance with US and UK laws. Some important documents required to import cars from the US to the UK include:
- The car’s title - this proves ownership of the vehicle
- An invoice, bill of sale, or any other acceptable proof of purchase
- Import/customs declaration
- The car’s original foreign registration certificate – this document provides key details about the car, like its make, model, and year of manufacture. A letter from the manufacturer may be used if the original foreign registration certificate is unavailable.
- Bill of lading or equivalent shipping documentation - this is issued by the company that ships the car from the US to the UK.
- Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) – this shows that the car meets necessary UK safety and environmental standards.
- Form V267 – this is only required for new vehicles
- Any additional documentation showing the car's history, such as service records and prior import/export papers (where applicable)
Note that while you may also need to obtain an import license to ship cars from the US to the UK, this is not generally required for personal vehicles. Nevertheless, you must still notify HMRC within 14 days of the vehicle’s arrival, regardless of whether or not an import license is required. It is advisable to check with UK customs before the car is shipped to ensure that you have all the required documentation; doing this goes a long way in facilitating a smooth clearing process when your car arrives in the UK.
Arrange Shipping and Transportation
Arranging adequate shipping and transportation services is a crucial step when importing cars from America to the UK; as such, it requires careful planning and consideration of available options. There are three main ways to ship cars from the US to the UK – container, roll-on/roll-off, and air freight:
- Container Shipping: with this method, you can either place your car in a consolidated 40-foot container with several other vehicles or in an individual 20-foot container. The consolidated option is more cost-effective and is usually recommended by most shipping agents because it reduces transportation and unloading fees. On the other hand, the individual container option offers faster transit times and also gives you the option to ship other items, such as household goods, along with the car. Container shipping is generally preferred for high-value or classic cars.
- Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping: only vehicles that are in good running condition can be shipped through this method, as the car has to be driven directly into the hull of the shipping vessel. RoRo shipping is usually less expensive than container shipping (depending on the departure and arrival ports used). However, nothing can be stored in the car, and shipping times may be longer. Note that this method offers less protection than container shipping.
- Air Freight Shipping: this is the fastest but most expensive option for shipping cars from the US to the UK and is ideal for individuals with tight timelines who need their vehicles to arrive quickly.
When deciding on the company to handle the shipping of your vehicle, it is essential to select a reputable one with ample experience transporting vehicles internationally, especially when it comes to importing cars from America. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Get recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues.
- Check the company's credentials. Ensure they are insured, bonded, and duly registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Be sure to confirm what their insurance covers and consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary.
- Get and compare quotes from multiple shippers. Be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than the others; this usually indicates subpar services and possible fraudulent activities.
- Look up reviews and ratings on the company via platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google. You should also pay attention to how the company handles consumer complaints and resolves these issues.
- Understand the kind and scope of services that the shipping company offers. For example, some shippers may require you to transport the car from your location to the shipping port in the US, while some may assume this responsibility. As such, thoroughly read any contract you are offered and make sure you understand its terms and conditions, including cancellation policies and any potential additional fees, before signing.
Pay Import Duties and Taxes
Your car will typically be subject to import duties and taxes, which must be calculated and paid before it can be released from customs. It is important to understand these costs beforehand to avoid unpleasant surprises. Customs duty is the primary cost associated with importing cars from America – this is usually calculated as a percentage of the car’s value (including shipping costs and insurance fees). You may also have to pay a Value Added Tax (VAT), which is about 20% of the car’s total cost (including any accessories, delivery charges, and duty).
HMRC will usually inform you if you need to pay duty or VAT when you ship your car from the US to the UK. If you are moving to the UK with the vehicle, returning an exported one, or temporarily visiting the UK (with it), you may be exempt from duty and VAT. However, you must pay the VAT and duty at the UK border if you are importing a car from America for any other reason. Many shipping companies handle this (and include it in their fees); VAT-registered businesses can also claim the VAT on their next return.
Remember that it is essential to pre-register the car with HMRC before it arrives and complete the Notification of Vehicle Arrival (NOVA) process within 14 days of its arrival; otherwise, you may be subject to fines and delays in clearing it. Note that cars deemed "seriously damaged" cannot be registered, and you won't be refunded VAT or duty if you attempt to register one.
Modify the Vehicle for UK Standards
Ensuring that the car meets UK road standards is another step to take when importing cars from the US to the UK. This can be done before or after the car has cleared customs and typically involves checking that it aligns with UK standards and making specific modifications to comply with local regulations. These typically include:
- Adjusting or replacing the headlights to ensure they dip to the left instead of the right
- Fitting a rear fog light
- Installing amber turn signals if the car has red ones integrated with the brake lights
- Recalibrating the speedometer to display miles per hour (MPH) instead of kilometers per hour (some cars may display both)
For used vehicles, replacing worn components like brake pads, tires, or other critical parts may also be necessary to pass Ministry of Transport (MOT) tests. When importing a new car, it’s wise to pre-order any parts needed for modification, ensuring a smoother compliance process upon arrival.
Note that, depending on the car's age and model, additional emissions modifications may be required to ensure it meets the UK's stringent safety and environmental requirements. The car may also be required to pass separate Ministry of Transport and Individual Vehicle Approval tests to ensure the modifications are up to par.
Register the Vehicle in the UK
The final step to take when importing cars from America is to register the vehicle with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). To do this, you’ll need to submit all the relevant documents, including the vehicle’s title, proof of customs duty payment, and the MOT or IVA test certificate, and obtain vehicle approval to show that the car meets the UK’s environmental and safety standards. Vehicles first registered or manufactured more than 10 years ago might not need this approval. However, if the car was registered on or after the 1st of March, 2001, with an EU-type approval and is either a light goods vehicle or a light passenger vehicle (a car or minibus with eight seats or less), you'll need the vehicle approval. Likewise, if the car has never been registered in the EU, you must apply for Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA). Vehicles previously registered in the EU will need a European Certificate of Conformity from the manufacturer; left-hand drive vehicles will also require a certificate of GB conversion IVA.
To initiate the registration process, you must first take the following actions:
- Notify HMRC of the import and get confirmation that your NOVA application is processed
- Pay the required duty and VAT
- Obtain proof of vehicle approval
Once you have done these, you must send original copies of the following documents to the DVLA:
- Form V55/4 (for new vehicles) or Form V55/5 (for used vehicles)
- Proof of your identity (preferably a driver’s license)
- Proof of vehicle approval (usually required for vehicles less than 10 years old)
- Form V267 (only required for new vehicles)
- Evidence showing the date the car was collected (this may be the supplier’s invoice or any equivalent documents)
- The car’s original foreign registration certificate (this is not typically returned). If you do not have this certificate, the DVLA may accept other proof of the vehicle’s manufacture date, like a letter from the manufacturer or a vehicle enthusiast club
Be aware that additional documentation may be required, depending on your specific circumstances.
It can take up to 6 weeks to receive your V5C registration certificate, which is required to get UK license plates. If your vehicle has been damaged, rebuilt, or modified in another country, the DVLA may take several actions when you try to register it in the UK. This can include assigning a Q registration number, issuing a new vehicle identification number (VIN), placing a marker on the V5C registration certificate indicating it has been altered, or requiring you to obtain Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA). However, If the car is considered 'seriously damaged,' it cannot be registered in the UK, and you won't be refunded for any VAT, duty, or vehicle approval fees paid. Serious damage typically means the car is beyond repair – these kinds of cars are often labeled as ‘statutory write-off’ or ‘non-repairable’ on the registration certificate.
DVLA registration and the subsequent issuance of a V5C registration certificate (the vehicle's logbook) confirm that your car is officially registered in the UK and can be driven on public roads. Note that you need to obtain UK license plates, affix them to the car, and get UK vehicle insurance before it can be legally driven.
Can You Drive an American Car in England?
You can legally drive an American car in the UK if it has been appropriately modified and registered per UK standards. However, importing cars from America and driving them on UK roads comes with its own set of challenges, mostly due to the difference between vehicle specifications and driving practices in both countries. A key area of consideration is the fact that American cars are typically left-hand drive, which can be challenging when driving on the left side of the road in the UK. American drivers may also have difficulties adapting to road positioning visibility, parking on UK roads, and getting adequate insurance coverage to meet the country's standards.
As such, when looking to ship cars from the US to the UK, it is best to work with experts who specialize in handling these tasks to ensure a hassle-free experience. These professionals can help you navigate the complexities of the import process, ensure compliance with regulations, address potential issues, and ultimately enjoy driving your American car on UK roads.
