Thinking about importing a car? Then you're at the right place. Perhaps you discovered an incredible deal on a particular model in another country. Or you can be seeking a Japanese import that was not available in the UK. The idea of owning a unique imported vehicle is exciting! However, the financial side can seem confusing. What does imported vehicle actually mean for your wallet?
This guide provides a clear, easy-to-understand breakdown of all the costs involved in an import auto UK project. We'll move step-by-step through the process, so you know exactly what to budget for when you decide to import a car into the UK.
This is the most obvious cost. It's the price you pay for the car itself in its home country. Often, this is where the potential savings are, especially for certain models or from countries like Japan. When buying an imported car, remember this price is just the starting point. The final cost you drive away for will be significantly higher once all other fees are added.
Importing your car to the UK is an expensive affair. The price varies based on the country of origin, the size of the vehicle and the service you are opting (e.g., Roll-on/Roll-off shipping or container shipping). A typical European or Japanese car will cost approximately between £800 and £1500. This logistics process can be handled by professional vehicle importers UK for a fee which can simplify it.
Once your car arrives in the UK, you must pay import duty to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). The rate depends on the car's origin.
From the EU: No import duty is due.
From outside the EU (e.g., Japan, USA): A 10% duty is typically charged. This is calculated on the value of the car plus the shipping cost.
It is commonly the greatest additional cost and it should be included in your budget.
Before you can legally drive your import car on UK roads, it must be registered with the DVLA. This process involves:
Filling in forms (like the V267).
Paying a £55 registration fee.
Getting a UK number plate.
Paying for the first year's vehicle tax. The cost of this depends on the car's CO2 emissions.
Most cars from outside the UK will need some changes to meet British standards. This is a key cost many people forget.
IVA Test (Individual Vehicle Approval): This is a strict inspection to ensure the car is safe and legal for UK roads. The test itself costs £450. If your car fails, you must pay for any repairs and a retest fee (£93 per hour).
Modifications: You will likely need to adjust the headlights to dip to the left and change the speedometer to display miles per hour (mph). This can cost between £100 and £400.
Finally, you need to insure your new car. Some people wonder, "are imported cars bad" for insurance? Not necessarily "bad," but they can be more expensive to insure. You must declare it as an imported vehicle, and some providers may see it as a higher risk. It's essential to get insurance quotes early in the process.
So, with all these extra costs, is buying an imported car a good idea? It can be, if:
The total landed cost (car + all fees) is still lower than buying the same model in the UK.
You want a specific model or specification not sold here.
You enjoy the process and don't mind the paperwork.
For many standard models, especially common ones, buying locally might be simpler and similarly priced. But for enthusiasts or those seeking a deal, using experienced vehicle importers UK or doing careful research can make importing a rewarding experience.
Discover unparalleled quality with Nobuko Japan, your trusted gateway to expertly sourced Japanese import cars. We hand-select low-mileage, well-maintained vehicles, delivering exceptional value and reliability right to the UK. Drive the car of your dreams with confidence, backed by our seamless import and sourcing expertise.
An imported vehicle is a car that was originally built and registered in a country outside the UK and has been brought here to be registered and driven.
No, not inherently. They are often well-built and reliable. The main considerations are potentially higher insurance costs and the need to ensure all import paperwork and modifications are correctly completed.
Often, the 20% VAT charge is the single largest fee on top of the car's purchase price, as it is applied to the total value of the car, shipping, and duty.
There are many online auction sites like Nobuko Japan and dealers overseas. Many people in the UK are interested in buying a Japanese import car due to their reputation for good condition and low mileage.
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