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mporting a classic van to the United Kingdom is a nostalgic and exciting endeavor for vintage car enthusiasts. Classic vans hold a unique charm and historical value, and bringing one to the UK involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and successful import process.

Important Steps for Importing a Classic Van:

  1. Research and Compliance: Begin by researching the regulations and requirements for importing classic cars into the UK. Ensure that the classic van you wish to import meets safety and emissions standards.
  2. Choose a Knowledgeable Importer: Partner with an experienced car import company that specializes in classic cars. They can guide you through the process and handle necessary documentation.
  3. Document Collection: Gather all required documentation, including the car’s title, bill of sale, registration, and any relevant customs paperwork. Ensure that the documentation accurately reflects the van’s details.
  4. Customs and Duties: Understand the customs duties, taxes, and fees associated with importing a classic car. You’ll need to pay import duties and VAT based on the van’s value and applicable rates.
  5. Transportation: Arrange for the transportation of the classic van from its current location to the UK. Depending on your preference, you can choose enclosed transport for added protection.
  6. Notify HMRC: Notify Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) about the car’s arrival and submit the necessary paperwork, including the notification of car arrival form (NOVA).
  7. Vehicle Inspection and Approval: The classic van may require an inspection to ensure it meets UK safety and emissions standards. Complete any necessary modifications before registering the car.
  8. Register the Vehicle: Register the classic van with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Obtain a UK registration number and new registration documents.
  9. Pay VAT and Additional Charges: Pay the VAT and any other charges required by HMRC before finalizing the registration process.
  10. Road Tax and Insurance: Arrange road tax and valid insurance coverage for the classic van. Ensure you have the necessary documents before driving the van on UK roads.
  11. Preserve and Enjoy: Once all formalities are completed, you can proudly drive your imported classic van on the roads of the United Kingdom, preserving its vintage charm and historical significance.

Importing a classic van to the United Kingdom is a rewarding experience that requires attention to detail and adherence to legal procedures. By working with experienced professionals and following the proper steps, you can bring a piece of automotive history to the UK and relish the joy of driving a vintage van on British roads.

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Will I pay import tax?

Are you moving to the UK?

If you are moving to the UK, have lived outside the UK for more than 12 months and have owned the car for more than 6 months, you will be eligible for a tax and duty free import.

To qualify, you will complete a Transfer of Residency application with HMRC. Customers of My Car Import have access to handy guides to complete this application.

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Have you bought a car from the EU?

Vehicles registered in the EU attract 20% import VAT, based on the purchase price of the car and any associated transport costs to bring it to the UK. The import VAT is calculated on your purchase invoice for the car, or a recent valuation if the invoice is more than 3 months old.

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Have you bought a car from outside the EU?

Vehicles registered outside the EU attract 20% import VAT and 10% import Duty, based on the purchase price of the car and any associated transport costs to bring it to the UK. The import VAT is calculated on your purchase invoice for the car, or a recent valuation if the invoice is more than 3 months old.

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Have you bought a classic car?

Vehicles over 30 years old qualify for a special rate of taxation, due to their historical interest, similar to an antiquity.

You will pay 5% import VAT and no import Duty, based on the purchase price of the car and any associated transport costs to bring it to the UK. The import VAT is calculated on your purchase invoice for the car, or a recent valuation if the invoice is more than 3 months old.

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Have you got a car that was formerly UK registered?

If you exported a car from the UK and are now returning with it, you may be able to import the car back into the UK tax free, as long as you can provide a UK purchase invoice when you acquired the car, along with a copy of your former UK V5C logbook.

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For a no obligation quotation to import your car fill out our quote form.

We have imported thousands of cars from around the world into the United Kingdom and we have over 25 years experience doing so.

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