Hey there, classic car enthusiasts! If you’re considering importing a sweet ride from Europe to the UK post-Brexit, you’re in the right place. We understand that the whole process may seem a bit daunting – there’s paperwork to get in order, duties, VAT, and of course, Brexit rules to take into account. But don’t worry. We’ve got it all covered for you. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the process with ease.
1. Understanding the Basics of Importing
Before we delve into the details, it’s essential to understand the basics of the import process.
When a vehicle is imported into the UK from Europe post-Brexit, the importer will be required to pay customs duty and VAT. This is a significant change from the pre-Brexit days when vehicles could be imported from Europe to the UK without any customs duty or VAT. But fear not, as the rates for classic cars are usually favourable thanks to their age.
What’s more, you’ll also need to interact with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) for the vehicle’s registration and certification. This will involve submitting a number of documents, providing details about the vehicle, and paying a fee. The registration process ensures that the vehicle is fully compliant with UK regulations and is safe to drive on UK roads.
2. Paying Customs Duty and VAT
Arguably, the most crucial part of the import process involves paying customs duty and VAT.
When you import a classic car from Europe to the UK, the amount of VAT and customs duty you will need to pay is calculated based on the vehicle’s value, which includes the purchase price, transport and insurance costs. For classic cars, which are those over 30 years old and not significantly changed in the last 15 years, there’s a reduced rate of 5% VAT and no customs duty if the vehicle will not be used for commercial purposes.
To make this payment, you’ll need a C88 form, also known as a Single Administrative Document (SAD), which is used to declare goods to customs. You will also need to submit a C&E 398 form if you’re claiming the reduced rate for a classic vehicle.
3. Obtaining a Vehicle Registration Certificate
Once the customs duty and VAT are taken care of, the next step is to obtain a Vehicle Registration Certificate for your car.
To register your vehicle with the DVLA, you’ll need to provide some key documents. These include proof of vehicle insurance, a valid MOT certificate (if the car is more than 3 years old), proof of identity, and proof of address. You will also need to fill out a V55/5 form, also known as the Application for First Vehicle Tax and Registration of a used motor vehicle.
In addition to these, you’ll also need proof that the vehicle has been imported legally, which is typically the customs receipt, and a European Certificate of Conformity if the vehicle is under ten years old.
4. Getting a Vehicle Identification Number
The last step of the process involves obtaining a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) if your car doesn’t already have one.
A VIN is a unique code used by the automotive industry to identify individual motor vehicles. If your vehicle doesn’t have a VIN, you’ll need to get one assigned by the DVLA. This involves filling out a V627/1 form, also known as the Built Up Vehicle Inspection Report, and getting your car inspected by a DVLA official.
5. Registering with the DVLA
The final step in the process is to register your vehicle with the DVLA.
After you’ve compiled all the necessary documents and forms mentioned above, you’ll need to send them to the DVLA. The DVLA will then inspect these documents and, if everything is in order, they will assign a registration number to your vehicle. Once this number has been assigned, you can get number plates made and fitted onto your car.
Importing a classic car from Europe to the UK post-Brexit might seem like a complex process, but by understanding the steps involved and the documents required, you can make the process a lot more straightforward and manageable.
6. Complying with the Northern Ireland Protocol
While the process for importing a classic car from Europe to the UK is fairly standard, there are some additional considerations for Northern Ireland.
Under the Northern Ireland Protocol post-Brexit, Northern Ireland continues to follow many of the European Union’s rules and regulations for goods. This means that when you’re importing a classic car into Northern Ireland, you won’t be required to pay customs duty. This is in line with the customs arrangements that apply to the rest of the UK.
However, you will still need to pay VAT, register the vehicle with the DVLA and, if the car is under ten years old, provide a European Certificate of Conformity. Unlike the rest of Great Britain, Northern Ireland does not have the option to use a UK national type approval in place of the European Certificate of Conformity.
7. The Role of Number Plates in Classic Car Import
When importing a classic car, understanding the role and importance of number plates is crucial.
Once your imported vehicle is registered with the DVLA, you’ll be assigned a registration number. This number, or license plate, is a legal requirement for all vehicles on UK roads. The license plate serves to uniquely identify your vehicle, and it should be displayed clearly on the front and rear of the vehicle.
When you’re assigned your registration number, you’ll need to get your number plates made up. In the UK, number plates must be made by a registered number plate supplier. The design and layout of number plates are regulated, and they must conform to the British Standard, including reflectivity and durability.
The number plate will also display an international vehicle registration code. For Great Britain, this is ‘GB’, but if you’re in Northern Ireland, it will be ‘GBR’.
Conclusion: Navigating the Post-Brexit Classic Car Import Landscape
Importing a classic car from Europe to the UK post-Brexit may initially appear to be a daunting process. However, by understanding the different steps involved, from paying customs duty and VAT to obtaining a Vehicle Registration Certificate and a Vehicle Identification Number, you can navigate the process with relative ease.
In addition, understanding the specific rules related to importing a car into Northern Ireland and the role of number plates in the UK can also help to streamline the process and avoid any unwelcome surprises.
Despite the numerous regulatory changes and the introduction of import duties, importing classic cars remains a viable and popular activity for many car enthusiasts in the UK. By staying informed about the process and requirements, you can ensure that your classic car import is a successful venture.
