Import · Germany → UK

Importing a car from Germany to the UK: 2026 costs

A short ferry hop, but a full customs entry — here is what a German car really costs in Britain.

By Sofia Berg, Customs & compliance writer · 6 min read

Modern German cars face 10% duty and 20% VAT post-Brexit, plus registration.

Left-hand drive is legal but affects resale; many buyers accept it for the spec.

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.

Estimated landed cost — German-market car, Germany → UK, 2026
Vehicle (purchase price)	$30,000
Export agent & auction fees	$1,200
Ocean freight	$900
Marine insurance (~1.5%)	$450
10% UK duty on CIF (non-classic)	$3,135
20% UK import VAT on duty-inclusive value	$6,897
Customs broker & port handling	$830
EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork	$300
Inland transport & registration	$1,500
Estimated all-in landed cost	$45,212

IVA may be required for individual imports; DVLA registration and an MOT complete the process.

Duty and VAT?+

10% and 20%.

LHD legal?+

Yes, though it affects resale value.