Importing older cars and VAT & duty charges

[300bhp/ton]

I've read something about this in the past, but can't recall specifics.

If I wanted to privately import an older American vehicle, say something age wise from 1975-1995. How are the import duties and VAT calculated?

Is it on the used purchase price in the US or some percentage from the original MSRP or something?

Also IVA, this isn't applicable to cars over 'x' age I think, is this correct, and if not, what needs to be done to get them road legal?

Cheers.

[LuS1fer]

All imports from outside the EU attract 10% import duty (22% on trucks) which is calculated from the used car invoice ie what you pay though HMC&E have the power to value the car themselves if they think you're "at it". This applies to all cars save historic cars (not classics). Having added your 10% you then have to add VAT to your (purchase price +10%) and shipping costs.

Cars over 10 years of age do not require an IVA, just an MOT which still entails white sidelights, rear fog light and orange rear indicators etc. Once you have the MOT and the certificate showing all import duties and tax have been paid, you can register the car at the local vehicle licensing office and they will often want to inspect it just to check it exists etc.

Don't forget to factor in docks fees and marine insurance.

[Z28fan]

(VERY) rough rule of thumb - whatever the car costs in U$ is what it'll cost by the time it hits your drive...

Speak with John @ Golden Chariots

[LuS1fer]

Z28fan said:

(VERY) rough rule of thumb - whatever the car costs in U$ is what it'll cost by the time it hits your drive...

Speak with John @ Golden Chariots

This isn't actually true given the dollar rate has varied from 2.2 to 1.4 over the past two years! I bought a $35000 car for £26000 in 2004 when the rate was 1.7.