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Importing your car from Austria to the United Kingdom

Why choose My Car Import?

Purchased a car in Austria and need to get it back to the UK? Or is your car already in the United Kingdom? Either way, let My Car Import help you with the paperwork to get your vehicle fully registered and UK-compliant.

Sit back and relax – we’ll take the necessary steps to register your car for you!

Transporting your Car

Leave the transportation to us! We'll deliver your car from Austria to the UK safely, efficiently and quickly!

Modifications

We'll take care of the necessary legal modifications required to ensure that your Austrian car is compliant in the UK.

Vehicle Testing

We handle all the essential IVA and MOT testing at our own onsite premises. No need for journeys back and forth - it's all conveniently under one roof.

Registration Support

Don't worry - we take care of the never-ending paperwork on your behalf to register your vehicle in the United Kingdom.

Customs clearance

Customs clearance can be complicated but we know precisely what's needed! That's why we take ownership of the process on your behalf and can also assist with NOVA's for you.

Remote Registration

We can assist with remote registrations for a vast range of vehicles already in the UK.

What is the process for importing a car from Austria?

When you’re looking to import your car from Austria to the UK, it’s imperative that you choose a reputable company that possesses the expertise and capabilities to manage the entire process seamlessly on your behalf.

We take immense pride in being recognised as the foremost industry leader in car importation services. Our commitment extends to serving clients with a diverse array of vehicles, regardless of their make or model.

Our approach is centered around providing quotes that are not only comprehensive but also fully tailored to suit your unique requirements and preferences.

To gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in the car importation process, we encourage you to explore the detailed information available on this page.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to reach out and have a chat with one of our knowledgeable staff members who will be delighted to help you with the import process.

Transporting your car

Having your car imported from overseas can be a daunting prospect. You have logistics to deal with, abundant paperwork, and the underlying fear that your vehicle might not be cared for adequately.

That’s where we come into our own. 

As frontrunners in the car transportation industry, we’ve perfectly streamlined the import process which means that we can pass the rewards straight over to you, our valued customer.

Our aim is simple; to get your car to the UK safely, efficiently, and smoothly, saving you the stress! 

We have an array of transportation options depending on your individual requirements. If your car is already in the UK, we can either remotely register your car or you can bring it to our premises for the required modification testing. 

Alternatively, if you need to import your car to the UK, we can transport your vehicle inland to a port or organise its entire journey on a car transporter. Rest assured that we only use the best, most reliable world-renowned transporters.

Once it safely reaches the UK, we’ll collect from the port and bring it to our own facility. That’s where our experienced team are ready to modify your car to comply with UK standards.

It’s so much simpler when someone else take care of matters for you!

Due to post-Brexit restrictions to free movement, importing your car from Austria requires a little more paperwork than previously. We’d always recommend allowing that extra amount of time to allow for this.

Customs clearance for your car

My Car Import organises customs clearance for around 3000 cars a year, so we’re well versed in ensuring the whole process runs smoothly! We make sure that you’re not overpaying, and if you don’t need to pay, we’ll be certain that that remains the case!

When you let us take care of customs clearance for your vehicle, you’ll have no nasty surprises down the line, just a quick, seamless import from Austria to the UK.

Type approval?

  • We can modify your car at our private premises.
  • We can test your car at our private premises.
  • Or, we can register your car remotely and take care of the paperwork (depending on the car).
  • In fact, we can take care of the entire process!

If your car is being imported from Austria and less than ten years old, the vehicle will need to comply to UK-type approval. We can either do this via a process called mutual recognition or through IVA testing.

Bear in mind that each car is different, and every manufacturer has different support standards for assisting their clients through the import process.

Please reach out to a member of our team so we can discuss the optimum speed and cost option for your individual circumstances.

Frequently asked Questions

How long does it take to transport a car from Austria to the United Kingdom

There are two common methods for transporting a car between Austria and the UK:

Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping

With Ro-Ro shipping, the car is driven onto a specialised vessel at the port of origin (Austria) and driven off at the destination port in the UK. Ro-Ro shipping is typically faster and more cost-effective for transporting cars. The transit time for Ro-Ro shipping from Austria to the UK is usually around 2 to 5 days.

Container Shipping

Alternatively, the car can be transported inside a shipping container. The car is securely loaded into a container, and the container is then placed on a cargo ship. Container shipping may take a bit longer due to additional handling and processing time. The transit time for container shipping from Austria to the UK is typically around 5 to 10 days.

Please keep in mind that these transit times are rough estimates and can be influenced by various factors, including the shipping company’s schedule, specific shipping route, weather conditions, and customs clearance procedures.

For more precise and up-to-date information on shipping times for a car from Austria to the United Kingdom, please fill in a quote form and we’ll be happy to advise.

How much does it cost to transport a car from Austria to the United Kingdom?

The cost of transporting a car from Austria to the United Kingdom can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of transportation, the distance, the specific route, the size and weight of the car, and any additional services you might require. Here are some general cost estimates for different transportation methods:

  1. Ferry or RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping: This is a common method for transporting cars between continental Europe and the UK. The cost can vary depending on the ferry company, the departure and arrival ports, the size of the car, and whether you choose a standard or premium service. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from £200 to £500 or more for a single journey.
  2. Container Shipping: If you prefer added protection for your car, you can opt for container shipping. This involves placing your car inside a shipping container. The cost will depend on the size of the container, any additional services (like door-to-door delivery), and the departure and arrival ports. This method tends to be more expensive than RoRo shipping and might range from £800 to £1500 or higher.
  3. Air Freight: Air freight is the fastest but also the most expensive option. It’s usually reserved for valuable or urgent cars. The cost can be quite substantial, often exceeding several thousand pounds.
  4. Additional Costs: Keep in mind that there might be additional costs beyond the shipping itself. These could include import duties, taxes, customs clearance fees, and any necessary modifications to meet UK standards (e.g., converting headlights for driving on the left side of the road).
  5. Brokerage and Handling Fees: If you’re using a shipping or logistics company, they might charge brokerage or handling fees for coordinating the transportation.
  6. Insurance: It’s important to ensure that your car is properly insured during transit. This might involve additional costs, but it’s a crucial aspect of protecting your investment.
  7. Distance and Route: The distance between the departure and arrival points will influence the cost. Longer distances or more complex routes might lead to higher costs.

To get an accurate and up-to-date estimate for transporting your specific car from Austria to the UK, it’s recommended that you fill in a quote form. They can provide you with personalized quotes based on your car’s details and your transportation preferences. Additionally, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on market conditions, fuel prices, and other factors, so it’s a good idea to gather quotes from multiple sources and plan your budget accordingly.

 

Can you drive an Austrian car in the United Kingdom?

Yes, you can drive an Austrian car in the United Kingdom. If you’re visiting the UK and planning to drive an Austrian-registered car, here are some important points to consider:

  1. Temporary Import: You can temporarily import your Austrian car into the UK for a limited period. Generally, this period is up to 6 months in a 12-month period. The car should be registered in Austria, and you will need to provide relevant documentation at the border.
  2. Insurance: You need valid motor insurance that covers driving in the UK. You can either arrange insurance in Austria that covers you while driving in the UK, or you might be able to obtain short-term insurance from a UK provider.
  3. Vehicle Documents: Carry the car’s registration document, insurance certificate, and any other relevant paperwork. Make sure these documents are in order and readily available.
  4. Driving on the Left Side: In the UK, cars drive on the left side of the road. This might be different from what you’re used to in Austria. Take some time to adjust and get comfortable with driving on the left.
  5. Road Rules and Signs: Familiarize yourself with UK road rules, traffic signs, and driving etiquette. Some rules might differ from those in Austria.
  6. Speed Limits: The UK has different speed limits compared to Austria. Make sure you’re aware of the speed limits for different types of roads.
  7. MOT Test (if applicable): If your car is over 3 years old and you plan to stay in the UK for an extended period, you might need to get it tested for roadworthiness. This test is known as the MOT (Ministry of Transport) test.
  8. Parking and Congestion Charges: Be aware of parking regulations and any congestion charges that might apply in certain areas of the UK, such as London.
  9. Customs and Taxation: Depending on the length of your stay and your residency status, you might need to declare your car at customs and potentially pay import taxes or VAT.
  10. Driving License: Ensure that you have a valid driving license that’s accepted in the UK. If your license is not in English, you might need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your national license.

It’s recommended that you check with the relevant UK authorities, such as the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) or the UK Border Force, for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding driving a foreign-registered car in the UK. Regulations might change, so it’s important to stay informed before making any travel arrangements.

What are popular cars to buy in Austria?

In Austria, like in many European countries, the popularity of cars can vary over time and may be influenced by factors such as environmental concerns, government regulations, and consumer preferences. Here are some popular types of cars and trends in Austria:

  1. Compact Cars: Compact cars, including models from Volkswagen, Škoda, and Seat, have traditionally been popular in Austria. Their small size makes them practical for navigating urban areas, and they are often chosen for their fuel efficiency.
  2. SUVs and Crossovers: SUVs and crossovers have been gaining popularity in Austria, as they offer a blend of versatility, space, and a higher driving position. Brands like Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have a strong presence in this segment.
  3. Electric and Hybrid Cars: Austria, like many European countries, has been witnessing a growing interest in electric and hybrid vehicles. Tesla, Nissan, BMW, and Renault are some of the brands offering electric options. Government incentives and environmental awareness have contributed to this trend.
  4. Compact Luxury Cars: Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have a strong presence in the luxury car market in Austria. Compact luxury cars, such as the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, are popular among those looking for a premium driving experience.
  5. Volkswagen Group Cars: Volkswagen, Škoda, Seat, and Audi, all part of the Volkswagen Group, have a significant market share in Austria. These brands offer a wide range of models, from compact cars to SUVs, which appeal to a broad spectrum of consumers.
  6. Wagons and Estates: Station wagons and estate cars, known for their practicality and ample cargo space, have a dedicated following in Austria. Brands like Škoda (Octavia Combi), Volkswagen (Golf Variant), and Volvo (V60) offer popular wagon models.
  7. 4×4 and All-Wheel Drive: Given Austria’s mountainous terrain and often harsh winters, vehicles with 4×4 or all-wheel drive capabilities are favored, particularly in rural and alpine regions. Brands like Subaru and Jeep are known for their off-road capabilities.
  8. Diesel and Gasoline: While diesel engines have historically been popular in Austria due to their fuel efficiency, the market has been shifting toward gasoline and alternative fuel options, including electric and hybrid powertrains.
  9. Environmental Considerations: Austria has been promoting environmentally friendly transportation options. As a result, vehicles with lower emissions, whether through electrification or efficient gasoline and diesel engines, have been receiving more attention.
  10. Austrian Car Manufacturers: Austria is also home to a few notable car manufacturers, such as KTM (known for motorcycles and the X-Bow sports car) and Magna Steyr (which manufactures vehicles for various brands).
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