Shipping a Car to the Philippines from the UK: Complete Guide

The Philippines is a rapidly growing market for imported vehicles, and British expatriates, returning Filipino residents, and car dealers are increasingly shipping vehicles from the UK. With a population of over 110 million and a booming middle class, demand for quality used vehicles — especially luxury and classic British cars — continues to rise.

Key reasons people ship to the Philippines:
• Returning OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers): Many Filipinos living in the UK ship their vehicles home when returning
• Expatriate relocations: British professionals moving to Manila, Cebu, or Davao
• Luxury vehicle imports: Strong demand for premium UK brands like Range Rover, Jaguar, and Bentley
• Commercial dealers: Importing quality UK vehicles for resale in the Philippine market

The Ship Cars operates regular container shipping services from Southampton and Felixstowe to Manila, with transit times of 28–35 days.

The Philippines has specific and strictly enforced vehicle import regulations administered by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO):

Brand-new vehicles only (for most importers): Executive Order 156 restricts the importation of used vehicles. However, exemptions exist for:
• Returning Filipino residents who have lived abroad for at least 1 year (one vehicle per family, must have owned the vehicle for at least 6 months)
• Diplomats and government officials
• Vehicles for special purposes (e.g., emergency, military)

Left-hand drive requirement: The Philippines drives on the right. UK right-hand-drive vehicles must be converted to LHD before registration, which can cost £2,000–£5,000. Some exemptions exist for classic vehicles over 25 years old.

Documentation required:
• Original V5C or DVLA export certificate
• Bill of Lading
• Commercial invoice with CIF value
• Packing list
• Import entry declaration
• Proof of residency abroad (for returning residents)
• Philippine passport or dual citizenship documents

Container Shipping (recommended for the Philippines):
• Dedicated 20ft container: £2,800–£4,500 from Southampton
• Shared container: £1,800–£3,200
• Transit time: 28–35 days via Suez Canal
• Main port: Manila International Container Terminal (MICT)

RORO Shipping:
• Cost: £1,600–£2,800
• Transit time: 30–40 days (fewer direct sailings)
• Limited availability — container is more common for this route

Philippine import duties:
• Customs duty: 30% of CIF value (for vehicles)
• Excise tax: varies by engine displacement (2–100%)
• VAT: 12% on (CIF + duty + excise)
• Total duties typically amount to 60–150% of the vehicle's CIF value

For a quick estimate, use our cost calculator.

Clearing your vehicle through Philippine Customs follows a defined process:

1. Engage a licensed customs broker: Mandatory in the Philippines. The Ship Cars works with trusted Manila-based brokers.
2. Document submission: All shipping documents, import entry, and proof of eligibility are submitted to the BOC.
3. Vehicle inspection: Customs physically inspects the vehicle at MICT or the bonded warehouse.
4. Duty assessment: BOC calculates total duties based on CIF value and vehicle specifications.
5. Payment of duties: All taxes must be paid before release. Payment through authorised agent banks.
6. LTO registration: After customs release, the vehicle must be registered with the Land Transportation Office.
7. Emission testing: DENR emission compliance testing is required before registration.

The entire process typically takes 2–4 weeks after the vessel arrives in Manila.

- Check eligibility first: Due to EO 156, most used vehicle imports are restricted. Confirm your eligibility before booking.
• Budget for LHD conversion: If your UK vehicle is right-hand drive, factor in £2,000–£5,000 for conversion.
• Use a reputable customs broker: This is legally required and essential for smooth clearance.
• Consider marine insurance: The Ship Cars includes transit insurance as standard.
• Allow extra time: The Philippines customs process can be lengthy — plan for 2–4 weeks for clearance.
• Avoid common shipping scams: Only work with established, verified shipping companies.

Ready to ship? Get a free quote or contact our team for expert guidance on Philippines shipments.