I am looking to import a used car direct from japan but am unsure how much duty you have to pay. Someone has told me its 10% customs and 17.5% vat....this seems an awfall lot 27.5%on top of the purchase price then shipping on top????

If anyone could shed some light on this I would be very greatfull.

Car in question is my dream car....STI4 type R 1997, any idea on market value.

Thanks

Daz.

Yes you are correct on the tax part but not sure current market value of that car. Do a search under japanese imports on the web and email an agent for a quote.

Tim

Yes you are right.
Shipping: Around £400
Around £40 to shipping company for unloading the car.
Import Agent needs £40 to pay to the customs people.
MOT £30
SVA £180
Parts for SVA Around £150
1st regestration £25

-Elliot

Watch out as it is not 27.5%.

The VAT is calculated on the gross duty plus invoice price. I.e. you go invoice price * 1.10 * 1.175. This equals 29.25% not 27.5%.

SVA is £150, ESVA is £180.

Ok thanks to everyone its not as cheap as I thought however it still means I can get this car for under 9k which is a good price I think?

That is a good price. Don't forget they charge you the customs on purchase price then the vat is charged on purchase price inc customs 10%. Gyppo's eh!

At least they got rid of Car Tax a few years ago. That was another 10% on top!

If you own the car for 6 months out there it can be exported/imported tax free.

What needs to be done to the scoob to get it through the SVA?
Had to do some funky mods to the FTO's lights and exhaust to get it through last time.

How hard is it to do the de restriction etc?

Have a look at www.eur-spec2000.co.uk or .com.
This should give you an idea of what you need.


Gez