Full 2026 guide to importing a car from the USA to the UK — port choice, HMRC duty and VAT, IVA testing, DVLA registration and a worked landed-cost example.
East Coast ports (Baltimore, New York, Charleston) are 10–14 days port-to-port to Southampton or Tilbury. Gulf ports (Houston) are 18–24 days. West Coast (LA, Long Beach) is 28–35 days via Panama Canal. Add 7–14 days for inland US trucking and 5–10 days for UK customs clearance and delivery.
Standard cars attract 10% import duty plus 20% VAT on the CIF value plus duty. Pickups are 22% duty plus 20% VAT. Classic cars over 30 years old in original condition qualify for zero duty and reduced 5% VAT under HMRC collectors' piece relief, saving thousands.
Yes, if the vehicle is under 10 years old and was not previously EU/UK type-approved. IVA costs £456 plus typical modification costs of £1,200–£2,500 (speedo, headlamps, rear fog light). Vehicles over 10 years use simpler Mutual Recognition; over 40 years qualify for historic vehicle exemption.
No. You may keep it on private property only. You have 14 days from UK arrival to file NOVA with HMRC, pay duty and VAT, then register with DVLA. Use of an unregistered vehicle on UK roads is uninsurable and prosecutable.
RORO is cheaper ($1,650–$2,800) and faster but only suits running, driveable vehicles in standard condition. Container shipping ($2,400–$4,200 for a shared 40ft) is essential for high-value classics, non-runners, modified vehicles or where you want to ship personal effects with the car. Most modern, complete vehicles ship RORO.
Transfer of Residence relief eliminates HMRC duty and VAT for people moving their normal residence to the UK after 12+ months abroad. You must have owned the vehicle 6+ months and keep it 12 months after import. Apply via HMRC form ToR1 before shipment.
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