How to Import a Vehicle from the UK to Indonesia | GVE London – Blog

Thinking about importing a car from the UK to Indonesia? Well, you’re not alone because it is quite a trend these days. Luxury car exports are all the hype, and it allows the good people of Indonesia to get their hands on cars that aren’t available locally in their market. 

Here’s a clear, straightforward look at how the process works.

Why Import from the UK?

The UK has a rich automotive history, so naturally, its luxury car marketplace is quite expansive and features something for all kinds of buyers. The variety and quality available from supercar showroom like GVE London are also unmatched.

Furthermore, both Indonesia and the UK have right-hand drive cars, so when they import a vehicle from the UK, no or minimal mods needs to be made. 

1. Eligibility and Local Rules

To be eligible for import into Indonesia, a car typically needs to be less than five years old. Anything older usually falls into the classic category, which comes with additional restrictions. Vehicles also must meet Euro 4 emissions standards. Be sure to check the vehicle’s documentation, including MOT records and the Certificate of Conformity.

To legally import, the buyer must have an Importer Identification Number (API). Without it, Indonesian customs won’t allow the vehicle to clear. Working with an authorised import agent is usually the most efficient route.

2. Understand The Cost Breakdown

Importing a luxury vehicle is not cheap. Here’s a breakdown of expected costs:

I) Import duty between 40 and 50 percent

II) Luxury Goods Sales Tax (PPnBM) that can reach 125 percent, depending on engine size

III) VAT, currently at 11 percent and expected to rise

So, for example, a car bought in the UK for £100,000 may cost more than double that after taxes and fees are applied. This is especially true for luxury brands and larger engine sizes.

3. Shipping Options

If you’re importing a high-value vehicle, as a supercar showroom, we always recommend going with container shipping because it’s safer; simple as that. You wouldn’t want to receive your vehicle all scratched up. 

Sure, Ro-Ro (Roll-on Roll-off) is more affordable, but it leaves the vehicle exposed to the elements during transit.

Generally speaking, shipping usually takes four to six weeks. Most shipments from the UK depart from ports like Southampton or Felixstowe and arrive at Tanjung Priok in Jakarta. Add to that the custom processes, which can take anywhere from one to two weeks.

4. Documents You’ll Need

Before the vehicle is allowed into Indonesia, make sure you have the following paperwork in order:

I) UK export declaration

II) Bill of Lading

III) Original invoice

IV) Emissions certificate or Certificate of Conformity

V) Proof of insurance during shipping

VI) Indonesian customs forms

Once the car arrives, Indonesian authorities will inspect it. This includes a chassis check and general condition review. Only after passing these steps can it be registered locally.

Read Also: Top Challenges When Exporting Luxury Cars to Indonesia

What Happens Once the Car Arrives?

Once it clears customs and you’ve paid all taxes:

I) The car must be insured with local third-party coverage

II) It must be registered with the police to receive an Indonesian licence plate

III) A qualified workshop should do a complete inspection and adjust software settings if needed, especially to suit the local climate.

If your car brand does not have an official service centre in Indonesia, prepare for potential challenges. Getting spare parts and expert service may take time.

Conclusion

Importing a vehicle from the UK to Indonesia is not a casual purchase, for it requires research, paperwork, and a solid understanding of costs. But if you’re sourcing something unique from a luxury car marketplace or GVE marketplace, the effort is often worth it. 

To make the process of exporting cars from the UK to Southeast Asia easier, it is best to work with a supercar showroom that excels in it; enter GVE London. From sourcing the car you want to shipping and paperwork, we’ll take care of it all for you. Furthermore, being enthusiasts, we not only perform the usual repairs and service but can work on customisation, window tints and detailing as well. To know more, hop on a call with us today!