Relocating to a new country is an exhilarating yet challenging journey. This is particularly true for individuals moving to the UK from Australia, as it requires careful planning, from deciding on the perfect accommodation to coordinating with professional moving overseas companies. Overseas Packers are reliable international removalists Australia trusts, ensuring a smooth transition for your belongings from one side of the globe to another.
Moving to the UK, however, is not only about transporting your personal belongings; it also involves considerations about larger and more valuable possessions. Among these, one of the most substantial is your car. If you’re contemplating bringing your vehicle with you to the UK, you’ll find that it presents a unique set of challenges and requirements. This is where this insightful article can provide invaluable assistance.
The process of importing a car from Australia to the UK requires comprehensive knowledge of regulations, a solid grasp of logistics, and an adept international removalist. Navigating the complexities of such a task might be overwhelming, but with the right support and information, it’s an achievable goal.
This article presents a comprehensive guide to importing a car from Australia to the United Kingdom, discussing everything from necessary documentation to customs regulations and import duties. Through clear, step-by-step instructions, it simplifies the process, turning a daunting task into a manageable one.
Moving overseas, especially on the scale of a move to UK from Australia, can be stressful. But with the right guidance and a professional international removalist by your side, you can make your relocation an adventure rather than a hassle. Whether you need to transport your personal belongings or import a cherished vehicle, Overseas Packers is your partner in making your UK move a seamless and stress-free experience. Dive into this article to understand the intricacies of car importation and make your move a breeze.
What you need to do before moving
If you’re moving to the United Kingdom and taking your car, then there will be some things you need to do before you leave Australia.
The first thing you will need to do is make sure your car is cleaned inside and out, free of clutter with personal items removed. Every crevice should be cleaned to ensure there are no hidden insects, mould, plant matter or anything that could be invasive to the UK environment. If you want to make sure it’s a job well done that will pass inspection, then Overseas Packers & Shippers can arrange for your vehicle to have a thorough clean.
You will also need to gather all the appropriate paperwork before your vehicle is shipped. If you are importing cars into the United Kingdom, then you will need to get a report from the manufacturer stating the make/model and manufactured date. Overseas Packers & Shippers can help with all paperwork, making the process even easier for you!
Finally, arrange the shipping of your vehicle. We will make sure it is safely transported to the UK!
Vehicle clearance and compliance
Within two weeks of arrival, HM Revenue and Customs will need to be informed, or you can be fined £5 per day thereafter. You will be responsible for import duty and VAT on your vehicle. Overseas Packers & Shippers can give you an estimation as to how much this amount may be and can assist in alerting HMRC, so you are not fined.
If your car is under ten years old, it will then undergo strict IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) testing, or if it is over ten years old, then it will have just an MOT. You will be unable to drive your vehicle until this is done unless it is driving to a pre-booked MOT appointment. It will be checked to see that it adheres to the UK’s safety and environmental standards. Newer cars may need some modifications, like speedometer conversion and rear fog light.
Registration and insurance
Once your car has passed its MOT, you will need to register it with the DVLA. A new vehicle import pack will give you all the information and paperwork you need to be able to do this, which is something else Overseas Packers & Shippers can help you with. Additional paperwork required includes:
- Proof of vehicle approval from IVA/MOT testing
- Form V267 if registering a new vehicle
- Paperwork from supplier proving when the vehicle was picked up
- Original Australian registration certificate showing when the vehicle was manufactured, as mentioned above. If you do not have this, the DVLA may accept a letter from the manufacturer. They will not return this to you.
All paperwork must be original. Copies are not accepted by the DVLA. It can take up to six weeks for registration papers to arrive, which you will need in order to get number plates.
Buying a New Car in the UK
If you decide to buy a new vehicle in the UK instead of importing your existing one, then there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, research various models and their specifications, considering factors like fuel efficiency, safety features, and price. Visit multiple dealerships to test-drive the shortlisted vehicles, seeking the best deals and financing options.
Negotiate the price and be aware of additional costs such as taxes, registration, and insurance. Review the warranty and after-sales service offered by the manufacturer. Once satisfied, complete the paperwork and finalise the purchase. Owning a new car in the UK provides a sense of reliability, modern technology, and peace of mind on the roads.
Contact Overseas Packers & Shippers
Overseas Packers & Shippers are experts in importing vehicles into the UK. If you are moving overseas and want to take a car, we can make things easy and stress-free for you. Call us today for a free quote.
