Importing a Classic from Europe

[Aero8]

I've been looking for a 70s Alfa Junior and found one in Holland. Whats the deal with Customs & Excise import costs on a classic? I am struggling to find clear details of the procedure and costs involved, assuming I would drive it to the UK as opposed to shipping. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Glenn

[LRdriver II]

No import costs, no duty.... just paperwork to de-register and re-register in the UK.
We are all in the EU, remember?

[Aero8]

Supposedly, but that wouldn't stop HMRC trying to scam a few more pounds out of us :-). Thanks for the reply anyway.

[TISPKJ]

No problem with importing a secondhand car or motorcycle from the EU.

Just ensure that you have all the paperwork, Logbook (carte gris in France) sales invoice, etc etc and take it to your local DVLA center, you will also need to have an english MOT with the chassis number on it and hand this in, when it comes back you will have an English log book and also the MOT will have the new reg number on the top of it. Obviously it needs taxing at the same time and I think there was / is a one off registration fee of £25 ish.

You can do all of this via post if you prefer, however they used to like to Inspect the vehicle so you may have to go to the local DVLA anyway.

[V8 TVR]

Have a look at this:-

http://austin-rover.co.uk/

[mph]

V8 TVR said:

Have a look at this:-

http://austin-rover.co.uk/

If I'm understanding it correctly the article in your link says you WILL have to pay VAT when importing from another E.U. country whereas a previous poster says you wont.

Which is correct?

[Aero8]

Cheers for your responses. Speaking to a specialist who is always bringing classics from Europe, theres nothing to pay in dutes etc, just some minor paperwork to complete and register the car. He says it couldn't be easier. I'm not sure if that applies to new cars though, as mentioned above, things aren't that clear.

Edited by Aero8 on Tuesday 3rd November 12:05

[Caruso]

I've imported a car from Italy previously. There was no duty to pay, and I think that applies to most cars over 6 months old. I had to sign a form saying I had paid any duties applicable in the country I bought it from. The only problem was registering in the UK. It's a bit of a chicken and egg scenario. To register the car, you need MOT and insurance. I found Footman James were willing to insure a classic car that was not UK registered, using the chassis number. They are also pretty competitive on classic insurance. The MOT they can do on the chassis number also. Don't forget you will have to pay the registration fee plus road tax at the point of registration.

[Aero8]

Cheers Dan!

[80quattro]

I predict a stint on German Ebay...
Thankfully, I'm sober