If your car is already in the United Kingdom, then we can help with the paperwork to get your car registered. We can however handle the whole process of getting your Austrian car into the United Kingdom, along with all the required steps to register it if the car is not in the United Kingdom already.
Importing your car from Austria to the United Kingdom
Why choose My Car Import?
What is the process for importing a car from Austria?
When you’re looking to import your car from Austria to the United Kingdom, it becomes imperative to choose a reputable company that possesses the expertise and capabilities to manage the entire process seamlessly on your behalf.
Our approach is centered around providing quotes that are not only comprehensive but also fully customized to align perfectly with 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 engage in a conversation with one of our knowledgeable staff members, who are more than willing to provide you with further guidance and assistance.
We take immense pride in being recognized as the foremost industry leaders in car importation services. Our commitment extends to serving clients with a diverse array of vehicles, regardless of their make or model.
Over the years, we have garnered a wealth of experience in successfully facilitating the importation of thousands of cars from the European Union, and we continue to excel in our role, regularly overseeing the import of cars from Austria to the United Kingdom.
Transporting your car
We are experts in logistics and can assist with getting your car into the United Kingdom safely.
If your car is already in the United Kingdom, we can either remotely register your car – or you can bring it to our premises for the required works to be completed. However, if you require transportation of your car to the United Kingdom there are many different transport methods that can be used.
Depending on your requirements, the car can be transported inland to a port, or transported the entire way on a car transporter. Our car logistics solutions are bespoke to your car, so get in touch so that we can better understand your requirements.
Once in the United Kingdom, we have a trusted partner that manages all of the inland transport and we can offer enclosed and unenclosed.
Rest assured we find the very best transporters in the world and only use them for their reliability.
At present getting your car back from Austria after Brexit requires a little more paperwork so we would recommend getting in touch for a quotation.
Customs clearance for your car
Once in the United Kingdom, we have a trusted partner that manages all of the inland transport and we can offer enclosed and unenclosed.
Rest assured we find the very best transporters in the world and only use them for their reliability.
At present getting your car back from Austria after Brexit requires a little more paperwork so we would recommend getting in touch for a quotation.
Type approval?
- We can modify your car at our premises
- We can test your car at our premises
- We can take care of the entire process
- Or we can register your car remotely and take care of the paperwork (depending on the car).
For cars that are under ten years old from Austria, they will need to comply to UK type approval. We can either do this with a process called mutual recognition or through IVA testing.
Every car is different and every manufacturer has different support standards for assisting their clients through the import process, so please enquire so we can discuss the optimum speed and cost option for your individual circumstances.
For cars that are under ten years old from Austria, they will need to comply to UK type approval. We can either do this with a process called mutual recognition or through IVA testing.
Every car is different and every manufacturer has different support standards for assisting their clients through the import process, so please enquire so we can discuss the optimum speed and cost option for your individual circumstances.
We manage the whole process on your behalf, whether that is dealing with the homologation team of your car’s manufacturer or the Department for Transport, so you can relax in the knowledge that you will be legally registered with the DVLA in the shortest time possible.
Left hand drive cars from Austria will require some modifications, including those to the headlight pattern to avoid glare for oncoming traffic, the speedo to display the miles per hour reading and the rear fog light if it is not already universally compliant.
We have built an extensive catalog of the makes and models of car we have imported so can give you a quick cost estimate of what your individual car will require.
Having worked with cars from around the world, even if your car requires extensive modifications we are here to help.
It’s worth noting that we have expanded our offering in recent years to offer car servicing and remedial work in-house. In fact, we can even MoT your car in the same building it will be stored in.
Although quite a few of the imports from Austria we register remotely, we are more than happy to get your car here (even if it can be registered remotely) if you would like our expert mechanics to take a look at your car.
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: In Ro-Ro shipping, the car is driven onto a specialized vessel at the port of origin (Austria) and driven off at the destination port in the United Kingdom. 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.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- Brokerage and Handling Fees: If you’re using a shipping or logistics company, they might charge brokerage or handling fees for coordinating the transportation.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Road Rules and Signs: Familiarize yourself with UK road rules, traffic signs, and driving etiquette. Some rules might differ from those in Austria.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).