Importing a Vehicle to the UK? Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to importing/exporting, UK’s government have strict guidelines and regulations in every flied, including the automotive industry. The automotive industry is one of the most important sectors in UK’s economy, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and providing employment opportunities for thousands of people. If you want to import or export vehicles, you should follow some guidelines to ensure a smooth and legal process.
Before you import any vehicle into the UK, you should know 4 primary things:
- Tell HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) within 14 days of your vehicle’s arrival in the UK.
- Pay VAT and Duty on your vehicle.
- Make sure that your vehicle meets all the safety and environmental standards.
- Register your vehicle with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Telling HMRC:
Telling HMRC within 14 days of your vehicle’s arrival is important, as failing to do so can result in heavy fines. This process is different for register or non-register companies in the UK.
For Registered Companies:
If you are a registered company in UK, you can use the Notification of Vehicle Arrivals (NOVA) service to notify HMRC. This can be done online or by filling out a NOVA form and sending it to HMRC.
For Non-Registered Companies:
Non-registered companies need to make an import declaration using legal customs agent or freight forwarder that will make the declaration in their behalf. They also need to provide a bond as security for the payment of any duty and VAT that may be due.
Paying VAT and Duty:
After informing HMRC, you will need to pay any VAT and duty that is due on your imported vehicle. The amount can vary depending on the value of your vehicle. But, there are some scenario where you may not have to pay any VAT and duty such as:
- If you are moving to the UK from another country and you have owned and used the vehicle for at least 6 months.
- If you are importing a vehicle temporarily, like for an event or exhibition.
- If you’re returning an exported vehicle to the UK
Meeting Safety and Environmental Standards:
This step involves ensuring that your imported vehicle meets all the safety and environmental standards set by the UK government. Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) or Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) can be needed to prove that your vehicle meets these standards.
Register and tax the vehicle:
Once your vehicle has met all the necessary standards, you can register and tax it with the DVLA. You will need to have a valid insurance certificate, a V55/5 form, a completed V267 form for imported vehicles, and proof of payment for any VAT and duty owed.
Bottom Line:
The process of importing vehicles into the UK can be complex and time-consuming, but it is necessary to ensure the safety and compliance of all imported vehicles. There are still some exceptions and special circumstances, so it is important to do thorough research and follow the guidelines set by HMRC and other government agencies. We encourage you to seek professional help and consult with experts in the customs felid if needed.