How to Temporarily Import a Vehicle into the UK

Are you planning to bring your car, motorcycle, or bike to the UK for a short period? Whether it’s for a temporary visit or an extended stay, our expert shipping and transport services are here to assist. From vehicle transport to motorcycle and bike shipping, we ensure a seamless experience.

Temporary Vehicle Imports

You can bring a foreign-registered vehicle into the UK without the need for registration or tax, provided that:

  • You're visiting and do not plan to settle in the UK.
  • The vehicle is registered and taxed in your home country.
  • You use the vehicle for a maximum of 6 months (this can be spread over multiple visits within a 12-month period).

If you stay beyond 6 months or become a UK resident, you’ll be required to register and tax the vehicle.

Bringing a Vehicle into Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales)

There is no VAT or duty to pay if you temporarily import your vehicle under the following conditions:

  • The vehicle is for personal use.
  • You are not a UK resident.
  • You do not sell, lend, or rent the vehicle while in the UK.
  • You re-export it within 6 months (extensions may apply in some cases).

To claim relief, complete form C110 and pass through the ‘nothing to declare’ channel when entering the UK.

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Using Foreign Plates for Over 6 Months

You may use your vehicle with foreign plates beyond 6 months if:

  • You live outside the UK.
  • You’re temporarily in the UK as a student or worker.
  • You’ve claimed relief from VAT and duty.

Once your customs relief expires, you’ll need to register and tax your vehicle if you intend to stay longer.

Bringing a Vehicle to Northern Ireland

From the EU: Vehicles brought in for personal use from the EU are exempt from VAT or duty.
From outside the EU: The same rules as those for Great Britain apply.

Temporarily Importing a Vehicle to Northern Ireland from Outside the EU

VAT or duty is not required if:

  • The vehicle is for personal use.
  • You are not a UK resident.
  • You do not sell, lend, or rent the vehicle within the UK.
  • The vehicle is re-exported within 6 months.

If you need to use a foreign-registered vehicle for more than 6 months, you may do so under the same conditions as in Great Britain, such as being a temporary student or worker. If stopped by authorities, be ready to show documents like a ferry ticket or customs relief form. To claim VAT and duty relief on temporary Q plates, you can submit form C110.

For more details on vehicle shipping, motorcycle transport, or bike shipping, reach out to James Cargo. Our team will handle everything, from the paperwork to the logistics, making your vehicle’s temporary import into the UK hassle-free.

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