30 Year old car import duty

[Jellyfishfields]

Looking at importing a car that has a build date of 1993 but was not registered until 1994.

Obviously I'd rather pay 5% rather than 20% but I'm not sure if customs and excise will go with the build or registration date for the 30 year rule to qualify for the reduced rate.

I've tried asking a couple of import specialists, but getting vague answers, gave up on the government helpline after 30 minutes.

Before trying again I wondered if someone on here may have been through a similar process and would be able to advise?

[catso]

I would expect HMRC will go by the date of first registration, at least they did when I imported a Motorbike as did DVLA with regards to registration.

Presumably they would use the build date if it had never been registered and you could prove the date?

I don't know about the '30 year rule' but if you save 15% by waiting until next year, can you not buy it but wait/store abroad before you import?

[TISPKJ]

You should be able to get a dating certificate from whatever club would be appropriate ..... that may work