Exporting a classic Ford Mustang from the US to the UK
A 1960s Mustang is a tax bargain compared with a modern one — if it qualifies as a classic.
By Marcus Lane, Vehicle import & export specialist · 6 min read
Genuine historic vehicles can enter the UK at 0% duty and a reduced 5% VAT.
Originality evidence is essential to claim the collectors' commodity code.
The full cost breakdown
Plug in your own purchase figure — everything below the vehicle scales only modestly with value. All amounts are researched 2026 estimates in USD.
| Vehicle (purchase price) | $45,000 |
| Seller-side export documentation | $150 |
| Ocean freight | $1,900 |
| Marine insurance (~1.5%) | $675 |
| Historic vehicles (30+ yrs) can qualify for 0% UK duty | $0 |
| Reduced 5% import VAT for qualifying classics | $2,379 |
| Customs broker & port handling | $830 |
| Type-approval / inspection | $2,500 |
| Inland transport & registration | $1,500 |
| Estimated all-in landed cost | $54,934 |
Compliance & the fine print
Use the historic-vehicle commodity code with HMRC; the car must be largely original to qualify.
Frequently asked questions
Why cheaper than a new Mustang?+
Classics get 0% duty and 5% VAT.
Proof needed?+
Evidence of originality and age.
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