Things To Know Before Taking a Vehicle Out of the UK Permanently | GVE London – Blog

Taking a car out of your home country can feel like quite the challenge; the biggest luggage anyone’s likely to ever take with them. Naturally, with a big luggage, comes big responsibility; paperwork, procedures, things along those lines. Knowing all of it is necessary before you start the process, so let’s lay it down in this article.

Know the Basics Before Exporting

Well, first things first, exporting a car from the UK means you are removing it from the UK’s vehicle registration system; affecting taxes and insurance. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) handles the paperwork and they’re the ones you need to inform and get the necessary documentation (V5C registration certificate) from. You’ll usually need to fill out the V5C/4 section of the logbook to notify the DVLA of the export.

If you do not notify the DVLA, you could face penalties, and it might complicate your vehicle’s status abroad. It’s important to be upfront and clear from the start.

Paperwork Is Key

Alas, as boring and tedious as it may be, exporting cars from the UK involves some serious paperwork. Aside from the forms from DVLA, you’ll need customs documents as well, and customs clearance has gotten tougher post-Brexit. You may have to fill out a C384 export declaration or use the new digital systems for customs.

Working with a luxury car marketplace or supercar showroom like GVE London can really help as they ensure your paperwork is in order, clearly stating the vehicle’s history and ownership.

VAT and Duties

Well, the answer to that depends upon where the car is headed. If its headed to a country in the EU, some countries make you pay VAT even if you’ve paid it in the UK. Others may have exemptions for personal use or classic countries. 

For non-EU countries, import duties vary widely. Some places have high tariffs on luxury car imports, which can significantly increase the total cost. It pays to check with the customs office of your destination country before shipping your car.

Read Also: Essential Checklist for Exporting Vehicles from the UK

Shipping Options and Costs

When it comes to shipping, you have the option for Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping. However, for high-end vehicles, owners prefer container shipping because the vehicle is safer from weather and handling damage. Sure, it costs more, but it’s worth it if you’re dealing with high-end vehicles from a luxury car marketplace or GVE marketplace.

Insurance for Exporting Cars

Insurance is often overlooked. You will need export insurance for the time the vehicle is in transit. Some insurers offer policies specifically for shipping. Also, check your insurance for the country where the car will be used. UK insurance policies do not usually cover foreign use once the car is permanently exported.

Vehicle Standards and Modifications

Not all cars meet the legal requirements in every country. Before exporting, find out if your vehicle needs any modifications. Some countries have strict emissions or safety standards. You might need to adjust headlights, emissions systems, or even fit additional safety gear.

Failing to comply can result in your car being stuck at customs or even refused entry. This is particularly important for luxury or specialty cars, which may have non-standard features.

Selling Your Vehicle Abroad

If you plan to sell your car after exporting, understand the market. Luxury car export often depend on demand in the destination country. The buyers in a supercar showroom overseas might look for specific brands, models, or conditions. Research the luxury car marketplace there to price your car correctly.

Timing Matters

Exporting a vehicle is not instant. It can take weeks or even months. Factor in shipping times, customs clearance, and paperwork processing. Starting early gives you room to handle unexpected delays.

Conclusion

Exporting a vehicle from the UK permanently requires planning, research, and patience. From paperwork to shipping and customs, every step matters. Whether you’re moving a classic car or a luxury supercar, being prepared will help you avoid costly mistakes. Take your time, check the requirements for your destination, and keep everything documented. It pays off in the long run. If you’d like assistance with exporting, contact us, GVE London. We’ll ensure your car reaches its destination safe and sound. 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!