Vehicle Customs Clearance for Import and Export

Three ways to clear your vehicle

Our UK broker

For UK imports and exports. We prepare and submit the declaration and tell you when the vehicle is released.

A local agent we introduce

At destination ports abroad we introduce a trusted agent we know, which avoids surprise costs.

Your own broker

If you already have a broker or clearing agent, we work with them and send them the shipping documents.

In some countries a licensed customs agent is required by law; we tell you when that applies.

Customs clearance in the UK

Our broker submits declarations directly to HMRC's systems, with the correct customs procedure code and tariff classification, so duty and VAT are charged correctly or relief is applied.

• Temporary admission for visitors touring the UK, with no duty or VAT
• Permanent import with 10% duty and 20% VAT, or relief where it applies
• Transfer of Residence relief, using your ToR1 reference
• Historic vehicles: no duty and 5% VAT for qualifying classics
• Returning UK vehicles, where returned goods relief can apply
• Export declarations and export licensing checks
• NOVA notification to HMRC within 14 days of arrival

UK import clearance usually costs about £200–450, plus any duty and VAT.

Customs clearance worldwide

Abroad, your vehicle is cleared by a trusted local agent we introduce, or by your own broker, whether it enters on a temporary import permit, a carnet de passages or as a permanent import. We advise on the import rules, carnet requirements, local laws and insurance before you book, so you know what to expect at the port.

Documents you will usually need

• Original registration document or title
• Your passport
• Bill of sale or proof of value
• Bill of lading (we issue it)
• Carnet de passages, if the country requires one
• For Transfer of Residence: your HMRC ToR1 reference
• For the USA: EPA form 3520-1 and DOT form HS-7

Guides to the rules

Our guides explain the rules that decide what you pay, with links to the official sources.

Temporary import of a vehicle into the UK →

Transfer of Residence: importing your vehicle to the UK →

Importing a classic car to the UK →

Overland vehicle shipping: temporary import by country and carnets →

For dealers and importers

We handle regular UK import and export entries for dealers and importers, including tariff classification and historic vehicle claims, and work with your own agents abroad if you have them.

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