Import Cars to United Kingdom from Japan

Q: What is the car import age limit for United Kingdom?

United Kingdom allows importing vehicles that are at least 10 years old. In 2026 that means a model year of 2016 or earlier. Newer cars are generally not eligible for standard private import.

Q: Do you handle shipping and export paperwork to United Kingdom?

Yes. Every order includes Japanese export de-registration, the English export certificate, marine insurance and shipping from Japan to United Kingdom by RORO or container. Our export team prepares the documents your customs broker needs.

Q: What documents come with the car?

Each vehicle ships with the original Japanese auction sheet, our own inspection report with photos, and the export certificate. Mileage and condition are stated as recorded at the Japanese auction.

Everything you need to import a used car from Japan to United Kingdom — the age rule, shipping options, taxes and the vehicles currently available at a fixed One Price. Vehicles 10 years and older qualify — model year 2016 or earlier for 2026.

United Kingdom Import Regulations

Shipping & Logistics

ETA: Ocean transit approx. 5-6 weeks. Add 1 week for HMRC clearance. Total ETA: ~6-7 weeks.
Ports: Southampton, Newcastle, Tilbury, Liverpool, Immingham, Sheerness, Bristol.

Customs & Costs

Standard Cars (<30 yrs): Duty is 10% + VAT is 20%. (Commercial pickups up to 22% Duty).
Classic Cars (30+ yrs): Massive tax benefits (BTI Scheme)! Duty is 0% and VAT is reduced to 5%.
Fees: Broker/Port Handling ~£300-£400. DVLA Registration £55 (+ road tax).

Age & Import Restrictions (CRITICAL)

We highly recommend importing vehicles 10 years or older to avoid the strict/expensive IVA test. 10+ year old cars only need a standard MOT and minor tweaks (rear fog light, MPH speedo).

Please check with your local authorities for the latest vehicle age limits, homologation requirements, and emission standards before importing.

Disclaimer

The import regulations, taxes, and age restrictions provided below are gathered from public internet sources for general guidance only. We do not bear any legal responsibility for the accuracy of this information. It is your sole responsibility to verify how to clear customs, homologate, and register the vehicle in your country. We are only responsible for shipping the vehicle to your requested port.

Frequently asked questions

United Kingdom allows importing vehicles that are at least 10 years old. In 2026 that means a model year of 2016 or earlier. Newer cars are generally not eligible for standard private import.

Yes. Every order includes Japanese export de-registration, the English export certificate, marine insurance and shipping from Japan to United Kingdom by RORO or container. Our export team prepares the documents your customs broker needs.

Each vehicle ships with the original Japanese auction sheet, our own inspection report with photos, and the export certificate. Mileage and condition are stated as recorded at the Japanese auction.