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Importing a trike to the United Kingdom

My Car Import has dealt with a plethora of cars. In the past, we have imported a variety of trikes into the United Kingdom for numerous clients and we have to admit they’re awesome!

But the route to registration can be a little tricky and the process of getting them here can be even trickier.

As a company, we strive to help with even the most unique of cars. So don’t hesitate to get in touch for more information on how we can help to import your Trike.

Obviously the number of them coming into the United Kingdom is very rare and each one needs to be assessed individually.

Frequently asked Questions

What are popular Trike's to import to the United Kingdom?

Importing a trike (a three-wheeled motorcycle or car) to the United Kingdom can offer a unique and distinctive mode of transportation. Trikes combine elements of motorcycles and cars, providing a different riding experience. When considering popular trikes to import to the UK, it’s essential to choose models that comply with UK road regulations and standards. Here are a few popular trikes that could be considered for import:

1. Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra: The Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra is a well-known and highly regarded trike model. It features the iconic Harley-Davidson styling and is equipped with a powerful engine, comfortable seating, and modern features.

2. Can-Am Spyder: The Can-Am Spyder is a popular brand of three-wheeled cars known for their stability and performance. They come with different engine options and offer a more car-like riding experience compared to traditional motorcycles.

3. Rewaco Trikes: Rewaco is a German manufacturer that produces a range of trikes with different designs and engine options. Their trikes are known for their quality, comfort, and innovative features.

4. Boom Trikes: Boom Trikes is another German manufacturer known for producing a variety of trikes, including custom and unique designs. They offer options for various riding styles and preferences.

5. Triking Sports Cars: Triking Sports Cars is a UK-based manufacturer that produces vintage-style three-wheeled cars inspired by classic cars. These trikes offer a nostalgic driving experience.

6. Yamaha Niken: While not a traditional trike, the Yamaha Niken is a unique three-wheeled motorcycle with dual front wheels. It offers enhanced stability and handling compared to traditional two-wheel motorcycles.

When importing a trike to the UK, it’s important to consider factors such as car compliance, emissions standards, roadworthiness, and registration requirements. Trikes must meet specific safety and technical standards to be legally operated on UK roads. Working with professionals who specialize in car importation and compliance can help navigate the process and ensure that the imported trike meets all necessary regulations.

 

Can you import a converted trike to the United Kingdom?

Yes, it is possible to import a converted trike to the United Kingdom, but there are specific regulations and requirements that must be met to ensure the trike is road legal and compliant with UK standards. Converting a car, including a trike, involves modifications to its original structure, engine, or other components. When importing a converted trike to the UK, here are some important considerations:

1. Vehicle Approval: Before importing a converted trike, it’s crucial to ensure that the modifications and conversions comply with UK regulations and safety standards. The converted trike may need to undergo individual car approval (IVA) or type approval to demonstrate its compliance with road safety and emissions standards.

2. Documentation and Records: Proper documentation detailing the modifications, conversions, and any relevant technical information should be available. This documentation may be required for the approval process and registration in the UK.

3. Vehicle Identity Check (VIC): If the converted trike has previously been registered in another country and is imported to the UK, it may need to undergo a Vehicle Identity Check (VIC). This is to confirm the car’s identity, modifications, and compliance with UK standards.

4. Compliance with Standards: The converted trike must meet the safety and technical standards outlined by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and other relevant authorities in the UK.

5. Emissions and Noise Regulations: Modified cars, including converted trikes, must adhere to emissions and noise regulations in the UK. This includes compliance with exhaust emissions standards and noise limits.

6. Roadworthiness and Inspection: Converted trikes will need to undergo an inspection to determine their roadworthiness and compliance with UK road regulations. This may involve checking safety features, lighting, brakes, and other critical components.

7. Insurance and Registration: Once the converted trike has been approved and deemed roadworthy, it can be registered and insured for use on UK roads.

It’s important to consult with professionals who are experienced in car conversions and importation to ensure that the converted trike meets all the necessary legal and regulatory requirements in the UK. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in the trike being deemed ineligible for road use or facing penalties.

Can you crate a trike when shipping?

Yes, you can crate a trike when shipping it internationally. Crating a trike involves placing it in a secure wooden or metal crate for protection during transit. Crating is especially useful when shipping valuable or delicate cars, as it provides an extra layer of security against potential damage during handling and transport. Here’s how the process of crating a trike for shipping typically works:

1. Choose a Suitable Crate: Select a crate that is appropriately sized to accommodate your trike while providing sufficient space for cushioning and securing the car. The crate should be sturdy and durable to withstand the rigors of transportation.

2. Prepare the Trike: Before placing the trike in the crate, make sure it is thoroughly cleaned and drained of any fluids, such as fuel or oil, to prevent leaks during shipping. Remove any loose or detachable parts that could be damaged or cause damage during transport.

3. Secure and Protect the Trike: Use protective padding, foam, and other cushioning materials to protect the trike from potential impacts and vibrations during transit. Secure the trike within the crate using straps, tie-downs, or brackets to prevent movement during shipping.

4. Close and Seal the Crate: Close and seal the crate securely using nails, screws, or appropriate fasteners. Make sure the crate is tightly sealed to prevent the trike from shifting or being exposed during transit.

5. Labeling and Documentation: Clearly label the crate with information such as the destination address, contact details, and any handling instructions. Ensure that all necessary shipping documents and customs paperwork are properly attached to the crate.

6. Hire a Professional Shipping Company: When shipping a crated trike internationally, it’s recommended to work with a reputable and experienced international shipping company that specializes in transporting cars. They can provide guidance on proper crating techniques, shipping options, customs procedures, and delivery timelines.

7. Freight Forwarding and Transportation: Coordinate with the shipping company to arrange the transportation of the crated trike to the departure port. The shipping company will handle the logistics, loading, and transportation of the crate onto the shipping vessel.

8. Tracking and Updates: Some shipping companies offer tracking services that allow you to monitor the progress of your shipment. This can provide peace of mind and help you stay informed about the status of your crated trike.

Remember that crating a trike can add to the overall shipping cost due to the materials and labor involved. However, the added protection and peace of mind during transit can be well worth the investment, especially for valuable or delicate cars.

 

How is a Trike transported?

Transporting a trike (a three-wheeled motorcycle or car) involves specific methods and considerations due to its unique shape and dimensions. Trikes can be transported using various modes of transportation, depending on the distance, destination, and your preferences. Here are some common methods for transporting a trike:

1. Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping:
RoRo shipping involves driving the trike onto a specialized shipping vessel or ferry. This method is suitable for both domestic and international transport. Trikes are secured on the ship’s deck to prevent movement during transit. RoRo shipping is cost-effective and efficient for short to medium distances.

2. Container Shipping:
Trikes can be transported in shipping containers, which offer protection from weather conditions and potential damage. If the trike can fit within the dimensions of a standard shipping container, it will be securely loaded and unloaded at ports. Container shipping is ideal for international transport and provides an added layer of security.

3. Flatbed Truck Transport:
For shorter distances or domestic transport, flatbed trucks can be used to transport trikes. The trike is loaded onto the flatbed using ramps, and it’s securely strapped down to prevent movement during transit. This method is suitable for transport within the same country or region.

4. Enclosed Trailer Transport:
Enclosed trailers provide additional protection from the elements and offer a secure environment for transporting trikes. They are commonly used for domestic transport, events, and exhibitions.

5. Motorcycle Transport Companies:
There are specialized motorcycle transport companies that have experience in handling and transporting trikes. These companies use specialized equipment and techniques to ensure safe and secure transport.

6. Professional Shipping Companies:
For international transport, working with professional shipping companies that specialize in car transport can provide peace of mind. They can handle the logistics, customs clearance, and delivery to the destination port.

When transporting a trike, it’s important to take the following steps:

Ensure the trike is properly secured to prevent movement during transport.
Protect the trike from potential damage by using padding and coverings.
Confirm that all necessary paperwork, including shipping documents and insurance, is in order.
Coordinate with the chosen transportation method to arrange pickup and delivery.
Choose a reputable and experienced transportation provider to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
Transporting a trike requires careful planning to ensure that it arrives at its destination in good condition. Depending on the distance and method chosen, there may be specific regulations and requirements to consider, especially for international transport.

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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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