Key Steps and Tips To Navigating the Australian Vehicle Import Process | GVE London – Blog

There are many reasons why someone might want to export a luxury car from the UK to Australia. Maybe they are going on a long holiday and want to bring their car along, or they’re moving permanently. Perhaps they have received a lucrative offer for their vehicle. Whatever the reason, importing a car into Australia involves a series of detailed steps that must be followed to the letter. Let’s take a look at them in this blog post.

Navigating the Vehicle Import Process

Securing Import Approval

The very first step before initiating an import is to obtain a Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications. There is no importing without it—it is mandatory, and your vehicle won’t be allowed to set foot (or, we suppose, wheels) on Australian soil.

The application process is quite involved, as you must provide detailed information about the vehicle, such as its model, manufacturer, and whether it complies with Australian Road Safety Standards. It’s best to start early, as this process isn’t particularly quick.

Compliance with Australian Standards

Let’s go over these Road Safety Standards we mentioned. The technical term is actually Australian Design Rules (ADRs). The Australian government is quite strict about safety and environmental standards for imported vehicles, and ADRs ensure they meet these requirements, covering emissions, safety features, structural integrity, and more.

Sometimes, modifications are required to comply with ADRs, and in such cases, partnering with a supercar showroom can be useful.

Understanding Taxes and Duties

Ah yes, let’s talk about the fun stuff—taxes and duties. Well, tax rates aren’t set in stone, so full disclosure: this information may become outdated. Be sure to check for any updates before finalising your budget. However, here are the taxes imposed on luxury vehicles imported into Australia:

• Customs duty
• GST
• Luxury Car Tax (LCT) – This tax is 33% for vehicles exceeding the LCT threshold.

Quarantine and Biosecurity Measures

Australia has a unique ecosystem with plant and animal species found nowhere else. Naturally, to preserve this biodiversity, strict biosecurity protocols are in place.

Before importing a vehicle, clean it as thoroughly as possible. No soil, pests, or plant material should be present in the car, as failure to comply can result in delays, fines, and additional costs. To put it simply, in terms of cleanliness, it should be in supercar showroom condition.

Read Also: What is the Right Shipping Method for Exporting Cars?

Shipping and Paperwork

Shipping is a critical step. Look for companies experienced in exporting luxury cars to Australia. They’ll handle logistics, paperwork, and ensure your vehicle arrives safely. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is common for vehicles, but enclosed containers are preferable for high-value supercars. On average, shipping durations range from six to eight weeks.

Upon arrival, the vehicle must undergo modifications to comply with Australian standards if necessary. This may involve adjustments to lighting, emissions systems, or other components to meet ADRs. After modifications, the vehicle will need to pass inspections before it can be registered for use on Australian roads.

Also, keep the following documents handy:

• Bill of Lading – Proof of shipment.
• Commercial Invoice – Details the car’s value.
• Import Approval – Issued by the Australian government.
• Export Certificate – Required when exporting cars from the UK.

Conclusion

Luxury car exports are a complex process, given the value of the vehicle being shipped. Extra care is required when transporting high-end cars, from handling to paperwork. If it all seems like a hassle, GVE London can take care of everything. As a supercar showroom and service centre located in West London, GVE London specialises in exporting cars from the UK to Australia. Furthermore, being enthusiasts, we not only perform the usual repairs and service but can work on customisation, modifications and detailing as well. To know more, hop on a call with us today!