Importing your car from Italy to the United Kingdom
Our services
If you are looking to import your car or motorbike from Italy to the United Kingdom we can assist in a plethora of ways.
Why choose us to import your vehicle?
Our quotes are fully inclusive and based entirely on your requirements. You can find out more about the process of importation of your car on this through this page, but don’t hesitate to get in touch and speak with a member of staff.
We are experts in logistics and can assist with getting your car into the United Kingdom from Italy safely.
If your car is already in the United Kingdom, you can bring it to our premises for the required works to be completed or we can either remotely register your car if the necessary work has already been 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 your car has cleared customs and is delivered to our premises we modify the car
The car is modified and tested by ourselves for compliance in the United Kingdom.
After which all relevant testing is undertaken onsite at our privately owned IVA testing lane.
- We modify your car at our premises
- We test your car at our premises
- We take care of the entire process
Frequently asked questions
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.
Italian 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.
What cars do we often import from Italy?
Italy is known for producing a wide range of cars that are popular among car enthusiasts worldwide. When it comes to car imports from Italy to the UK, some popular choices include:
Fiat
Fiat is an iconic Italian brand known for its stylish and compact cars. Models such as the Fiat 500, Panda, and Tipo are popular choices among UK drivers who appreciate their unique design and fuel efficiency.
Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo cars are renowned for their elegant design, sporty performance, and rich heritage. Models like the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio have gained popularity in the UK for their striking aesthetics and dynamic driving experience.
Ferrari
Ferrari is synonymous with luxury, speed, and timeless Italian craftsmanship. Importing a Ferrari to the UK allows car enthusiasts to experience the thrill of driving high-performance sports cars like the 488 GTB, F8 Tributo, or the legendary 812 Superfast.
Lamborghini
Lamborghini is another prestigious Italian brand that captures the imagination of automotive enthusiasts. With models like the Aventador and Huracán, Lamborghini offers breathtaking design, exceptional performance, and an exhilarating driving experience.
Maserati
Maserati cars are renowned for their blend of luxury and sportiness. Models such as the Ghibli and Quattroporte showcase Italian elegance and craftsmanship while delivering powerful performance on UK roads.
Ducati
While primarily known for its motorcycles, Ducati also produces a range of high-performance bikes that are sought after by motorcycle enthusiasts in the UK. From superbikes like the Panigale to versatile models like the Multistrada, Ducati imports offer thrilling rides for motorcycle aficionados.
These are just a few examples of popular car imports from Italy to the UK.
The allure of Italian automotive design, craftsmanship, and performance makes these brands highly desirable among car enthusiasts looking to import a unique and distinctive car to the UK. My Car Import specializes in facilitating the import process, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience for those looking to bring their favorite Italian cars to the UK.
How long does it take to transport a car from Italy to the UK?
The duration of transporting a car from Italy to the UK can vary depending on several factors, including the specific locations in both countries and the chosen method of transportation. Here are a few common options and their estimated durations:
Road Transport:
If the car is being transported by road, it typically takes around 2-5 days to travel from Italy to the UK, depending on the distance and any potential delays at borders or during customs clearance.
Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping:
Ro-Ro shipping involves loading the car onto a specialized vessel, which transports it across the sea. The estimated time for Ro-Ro shipping from Italy to the UK is generally around 2-7 days, depending on the shipping company and the specific routes available.
Container Shipping:
Another option is to transport the car in a container. This method involves loading the car into a container, which is then shipped by sea. The duration for container shipping from Italy to the UK can vary, usually taking around 7-14 days, depending on the shipping company, availability of shipping vessels, and potential delays at ports.
It’s important to note that these timeframes are rough estimates and can be influenced by various factors such as the specific departure and arrival points, weather conditions, customs procedures, and any unexpected delays along the transportation route.
What shipping ports are there in Italy?
Italy has several popular ports that serve as significant gateways for maritime trade and shipping. Some of the major ports in Italy include:
Port of Genoa: Located in northwest Italy, the Port of Genoa is the country’s largest seaport. It is a major hub for container traffic, as well as car and passenger ferry services. The port has extensive facilities for handling various types of cargo.
Port of Gioia Tauro: Situated in Calabria, southern Italy, the Port of Gioia Tauro is one of the largest container terminals in the Mediterranean. It handles a significant volume of container traffic and serves as a key transshipment hub for goods bound for other destinations.
Port of Naples: Located in the Campania region, the Port of Naples is a major seaport on the Tyrrhenian Sea. It offers a range of services, including container handling, Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) services for cars, and ferry connections to various domestic and international destinations.
Port of Livorno: Positioned on the western coast of Tuscany, the Port of Livorno is an important port for both commercial and passenger traffic. It has specialized facilities for handling cars, and it serves as a gateway to central Italy and its automotive industry.
Port of Venice: Situated in northeastern Italy, the Port of Venice is a significant port for cruise ships, as well as for container and Ro-Ro traffic. It offers connections to the Adriatic Sea and serves as a gateway for trade with Eastern Europe.
Port of Taranto: Located in southern Italy, the Port of Taranto is a major commercial and industrial port. It handles various types of cargo, including containers and cars, and serves as a strategic hub for trade in the Mediterranean.
These ports, along with several others in Italy, play crucial roles in facilitating international trade, including the shipment of cars, containers, and other goods. The specific port of choice for shipping a car from Italy would depend on the destination, and individual requirements.
How much does it cost to transport a car from Italy to the United Kingdom?
The cost of transporting a car from Italy to the United Kingdom can vary widely depending on several factors, including the mode of transportation, the specific route, the size and weight of the car, any additional services, and the current market conditions. 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 based on the ferry company, the departure and arrival ports, the size of the car, and whether you choose standard or premium services.
Container Shipping: Container shipping involves placing your car inside a shipping container. The cost will depend on factors like the size of the container, additional services, and the specific departure and arrival ports.
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 substantial, often exceeding several thousand euros.
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.
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: Ensure that your car is properly insured during transit. Insurance costs can vary based on the value of the car and the coverage you choose.
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 a more accurate and up-to-date estimate for transporting your specific car from Italy to the UK, please fill out our enquiry form and we will reply as quickly a possible.