Question 1

Are there any hidden costs?

Accepted Answer

The listed price covers the vehicle and ocean freight from Japan. Duty, VAT and customs clearance are charged and paid in the United Kingdom and are quoted separately.

Question 2

Do cars over 30 years old pay a different VAT rate?

Accepted Answer

Cars aged 30 years or more are charged import VAT at 5% instead of 20%. Import policies can change; confirm the current treatment with HM Revenue & Customs before you commit.

Question 3

Does the car have to be inspected in Japan before it ships?

Accepted Answer

No. The United Kingdom requires no inspection in Japan before shipment. The checks happen after arrival: a Notification of Vehicle Arrivals (NOVA) filing within two weeks, then the test set by the car's age.

Question 4

How are vehicles shipped from Japan to the UK?

Accepted Answer

Vehicles are shipped by RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) with Höegh Autoliners and unloaded at Southampton or Bristol (Portbury).

Question 5

How do I check the vehicle condition?

Accepted Answer

Every listing carries photographs, the Carbarn inspection comments, the full inspection report, and the auction grade, so the condition can be verified before you commit.

Question 6

How is duty and VAT calculated in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Customs Duty is 10% of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value, and VAT is 20% of the CIF value plus duty. Import policies can change; check with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for the latest rates.

Question 7

How long does it take for the vehicle to arrive in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Shipping from Japan takes 30-50 days, depending on the sailing. Ships depart monthly.

Question 8

What fixed fees apply when the car is registered?

Accepted Answer

Cars aged 3 to 10 years pay an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test fee of £325. Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) first registration is £55.

Question 9

What is the age restriction on imported cars in the UK?

Accepted Answer

The United Kingdom has no age limit for cars or vans. Cars aged 3 to 10 years need an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test before registration. Cars over 10 years need only an MOT.

Question 10

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

Carbarn accepts Bank Transfer and Credit / Debit Card. Bank details are issued only on an official Carbarn proforma invoice, after your quote is confirmed.

Subaru Levorg Import to United Kingdom

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