Importing Vehicles

[beano500]

Anyone good at importing?

Watching a Fleabay item and - well you never know.

Guernsey - so I assume that counts as "outside the EU" ? And it's a Motorcycle if that makes any difference.

I started sniffing around the DOT and HM R&C internet sites, but I can't be sure I've found what VAT rate applies (and why) .

[Racingdude009]

Mate of mine asked the same question on Sat.

[clarkey]

I've imported a bike from Guernsey before, it's pretty simple. Process is as follows:

1. Has UK VAT been paid on the bike before? If not, you need to pay VAT (17.5%) on the import price. They'll expect to see an invoice, and will expect it to be at a fair market value. You need to fill out a form and send it to the VAT office, no VAT facilities at ports any more..
2. HMRC will invoice you for VAT. Send off payment.
3. HMRC will send you confirmation that VAT has been paid.
4. Complete DVLA form V55/5 and take this with MOT, Guernsey reg docs, VAT payment confirmation. They'll charge you a first registration fee, road tax and will issue you a registration number.

That's it. The slowest bit is getting confirmation that VAT has been paid - it takes about 2 or 3 weeks before you can start the registration process. I found the VAT people in Dover very helpful and approachable and you can speak to someone when you call to chase it.

Send me a message if you need any more info.

[clarkey]

One other thing - you'll need to insure the bike on the frame number before you can register it. There aren't that many companies that will do this - I think I used Express Insurance in the end.

[beano500]

Thanks for explaining that, clarkey. You make it sound as simple as I can understand!

[the_lone_wolf]

E-bike and MCE are two companies that have provided, or offered to provide, me with insurance on a frame number only...