Time to test the Scoobynet knowledge bank....

I'm returning to the UK (so my username will cease to be apt!) and I'm bringing my Impreza WRX Wagon with me.

I have a choice of ports to bring it into, Southampton or Liverpool. To be honest both are about equidistant from where I'll be living, so inconvenient either way. What I would like to know from anyone who's been though this personally (either importing your own vehicle directly, or work for a company which imports Subarus from Japan), is either port more convenient for getting SVA work done, fitting immobilisers/alarms etc? Are there any companies which are regarded as "top notch" for doing SVA type work, fitting security devices etc, high standards without gouging?

Also are either VOSA test sites busier or quieter than the other?

I just need a standard SVA because I'm importing a vehicle I've owned and used for over 12 months.

Cheers,
Brit_(soon_to_be_ex)_in_Japan

 

I know GC8 on here has a bit of experience in these matters.

I imported my own into Southampton, not quite same scenario as you, because I beleive yours comes under the "personal import" as you have stated.

In case you haven't read :- http://www.dvla.gov.uk/vehicles/exptimpt.htm

Southampton have these :-
http://www.svauk.co.uk/
http://www.bonsaicars.com/services_options.htm

one for Liverpool http://www.ltc-sva.co.uk/what_we_do.html

I personally had my car transported to local garage, they prepped it (with some guidelines from me), mot'd it, serviced it.
I filled in VOSA sva test form and applied, had it done, then regisitered it.

Will say I didnt have to use a model report ( standard MY 97 saloon), as it was on their "list" as type approved.

 

Thanks Foot_Tapper, some useful links.

Does anyone have any more recommendations for companies of this sort?