The UK is a popular country to buy Japanese cars from, as they are known for their reliability, affordability and high-tech. If you are looking to import a Japanese car to the UK, you need to be aware of the regulations and laws surrounding car imports in the country. This guide will explain the important steps, rules and processes for importing a Japanese car to the UK.
How to Understand the Import Process
When importing a car from Japan to the UK, there are a number of steps you need to go through. These steps include buying the car, arranging transportation, checking that the car meets UK regulations, paying tax and registering the vehicle. This process is to ensure that all cars in the UK meet the safety and environmental standards that apply for use on British roads.
Vehicle Type Approval
Get type approval. Bringing Japanese cars to the UK has been a priority. Type approval means that the car meets the safety and environmental standards for British roads. There are two types of certification: European Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA) and Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA). If your vehicle is ECWVTA certified, you can easily import it into the UK. However, if your vehicle is not yet type approved for the UK market, you will need to go through an Individual Vehicle Approval process.
Emissions and Environmental Law
Japanese cars must meet strict UK environmental regulations, particularly when it comes to pollution. Depending on the age of your vehicle, it must meet either Euro 5 or Euro 6 pollution standards in the UK. This is the latest standard, the main aim of which is to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter emissions from diesel engines. Some Japanese cars, particularly older models, may not meet these requirements. If your vehicle does not meet the European standard, you will need to replace it. In some cases, you may not be allowed to bring your vehicle into the UK at all. Always check the pollution standards before buying and bringing a car into the UK.
Compliance changes
In addition to the pollution and environmental changes, you may need to make other changes to your vehicle to comply with UK regulations. The most common changes to Japanese cars are changing the headlights and speedometer. Sometimes the car will also switch from left-hand drive to right-hand drive. In Japan, people drive on the left. In the UK, you may need to change your headlights to avoid dazzling right-hand vehicles. If your car’s speedometer displays kilometres per hour (km/h), it is best to change this to miles per hour (mph). Vehicles that currently drive on the left may need to switch to driving on the right, which can be expensive.
Import duties and taxes
When you import a Japanese car into the UK, you will need to pay a number of taxes and charges. These include import duties and value added tax (VAT). Cars imported from non-EU countries, such as Japan, are subject to an import tax equal to 10% of the value. This is calculated by adding together the price of the car, the shipping costs and the insurance costs. In addition to import duty, the UK also charges 20% VAT on the total value of the car (including shipping and insurance). You will need to factor in these additional costs as VAT is charged on both new and used cars. Customs clearance fees are usually collected by the person responsible for the import documents. These fees vary depending on the service provider.
MOT and roadworthiness test
Before you can register your Japanese car in the UK, it must undergo an MOT test (Department of Transport) to ensure that the car is safe to drive. An MOT test checks various parts of your car, including the brakes, lights, tyres and exhaust system. If the MOT test is successful, you can proceed with your driving licence application.
Registration and insurance purchase
Once your Japanese car has passed its MOT test and IVA test (if required), you can register it for use on UK roads. To register your car, you will need proof of ownership, the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), the MOT and IVA (if required) and proof of insurance. You will also need to make sure your car is protected before you drive it. Under UK law, all cars and lorries on the road must be insured. You can take out insurance
Make sure you follow all the rules and regulations. Every step of the import process requires careful planning, from obtaining type approval to modifying the car to ensure it meets emissions standards. Make sure you speak to professionals, such as customs agents, importers, and automotive compliance experts, to ensure a smooth import process. As long as you follow the rules and make the necessary modifications, you can drive high-quality, reliable Japanese cars on British roads.
