Ireland → United Kingdom
Importing your car from Ireland to the United Kingdom
Every car is different. That means that every quote is unique to your requirements.
- Ferry or RoRo from Irish ports
- Customs clearance handled for you
- Modifications and testing arranged
- DVLA registration handled
Why choose My Car Import?
The United Kingdom’s leading expert in importing cars
My Car Import is the United Kingdom’s leading expert in importing cars into the UK from across the globe.
Every car is different. That means that every quote is unique to your requirements. By completing the form on this page, we’ll gain a better understanding of your import requirements and provide you with a more accurate quote.
If you have any questions in the meantime, please feel free to reach out and we’ll do all we can to help.
Transit times
How long does it take to transport a car from Ireland to the United Kingdom?
Generally, the estimated transit time for transporting a car from Ireland to the UK is around 1 to 3 days.
If you opt for a ferry service, which is the most common method for transporting cars between Ireland and the UK, the crossing itself typically takes several hours. Ferries operate between various ports in Ireland, such as Dublin, Rosslare or Belfast, and several ports in the UK, including Holyhead, Liverpool or Fishguard. The actual crossing time can range from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the specific route and the weather conditions.
In addition to the ferry crossing, you should consider the time required for drop-off and collection at the ports, customs clearance, and any additional documentation or procedures that may be necessary. These factors can add a few hours or more to the overall transportation time.
Get your no obligation free quote today
Tell us where your car is and what stage you’re at, and we’ll price the whole job.
Frequently asked questions
Every vehicle is different. If yours isn’t covered here, just ask.
How long does it take to register an Irish vehicle in the United Kingdom?
Registering an Irish vehicle in the UK involves several steps and can vary in the time it takes, depending on the specific circumstances, completeness of documentation, and the processing times of the relevant authorities.
What the process involves
- DocumentationThe vehicle’s registration certificate, proof of ownership, a completed V55/5 form and any other relevant paperwork.
- Customs and import dutyAny applicable customs duties and taxes, which vary based on the vehicle’s value and other factors.
- Inspection and complianceDepending on the vehicle’s age and type, it may need to undergo testing to ensure it complies with UK regulations.
- DVLA registrationProcessing at the DVLA typically takes a few weeks; you may receive a temporary registration certificate while your application is processed.
- Vehicle tax and insuranceVehicle tax is paid as part of the registration process, and you will need insurance before you can legally drive the vehicle on UK roads.
It’s a good idea to start the process well in advance of when you plan to use the vehicle in the UK.
What is the process for importing cars under ten years old?
We do this using an IVA test. We have a 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.
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.
Importing from somewhere else?
We collect from right across the EU. Pick a country for the guide to bringing a car home from there.
