Importing your car from Guernsey to the United Kingdom
Why choose My Car Import?
My Car Import helps to bring thousands of cars into the United Kingdom each year and we get quite a few cars from Guernsey.
As full service car importers, we can assist with the entire process of getting your car here and then registered.
Our aim is to take what is sometimes a very complicated process and streamline it into a single easy to understand the process with as little involvement from you as possible.
The best place to start is by filling out our quote request form with a few more details about your car from Guernsey. Once we have that information we can provide you a quotation that accurately reflects the specific route to registration for your car and if applicable any transport costs.
Any questions you might have should be answered when you get a bespoke quotation that is tailored to you so please wait for that to arrive in your inbox.
How long does it take to transport a car from Guernesy to the United Kingdom?
The duration to transport a car from Guernsey to the United Kingdom can vary depending on several factors, including the shipping method chosen, the specific locations involved, and the logistics of the shipping process. Here are some common shipping methods and their approximate durations:
Ferry Service: The most common and straightforward way to transport a car from Guernsey to the United Kingdom is by using a ferry service. The ferry route between Guernsey and the UK typically takes around 2 to 4 hours, depending on the specific departure and arrival ports. Keep in mind that ferry schedules may vary, and it’s essential to check the available departure times and book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Container Shipping: If you opt for container shipping, where your car is loaded into a container for added protection, the duration will depend on the shipping company’s schedule and the transit time from Guernsey to the UK port. This method can take a few days to a week, depending on the shipping route and the frequency of sailings.
Ro-Ro Shipping: Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) shipping involves driving your car onto a specialized vessel for transport. This method is generally faster than container shipping and can take around 12 to 24 hours to complete the journey from Guernsey to the UK port.
Air Freight: If speed is a top priority, you may consider air freight, although it is typically more expensive than other shipping methods. Air freight can transport your car from Guernsey to the UK in a matter of hours.
Please note that the actual transit time can also be influenced by weather conditions, customs procedures, and any potential delays at ports. It’s essential to work with a reputable shipping company that can provide accurate information on transit times and assist you with the logistics of the car transport process. Additionally, ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and paperwork prepared for a smooth and efficient shipping experience.
What is the process for importing cars under ten years old?
We do this using an IVA test. We have the only privately operated IVA testing facility in the UK, meaning your car will not be waiting for a testing slot at a government testing centre, which can take weeks, if not months to obtain. We IVA test every week on-site and therefore have the fastest turnaround to get your car registered and on UK roads.
Every car is different and every manufacturer has different support standards for assisting their clients through the import process, so please get a quote so we can discuss the optimum speed and cost option for your 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.
Australian cars may require some modifications, including the speedo to display an MPH reading and the rear fog light positioning if it is not already universally compliant.
We have built an extensive catalogue of the makes and models of cars we have imported so can give you an accurate estimate of what your car will require to be ready for its IVA test.
What is the process for importing cars over ten years old?
Cars over 10 years old are type approval exempt but still require a safety test, called an MOT, and similar modifications to an IVA test prior to registration. The modifications depend on the age but are generally to the rear fog light.
If your car is over 40 years old it does not need an MOT test and can be delivered directly to your UK address ahead of it being registered.