Import · Germany → UK

Importing a classic car from the EU to the UK after Brexit

Brexit made EU-to-UK car moves an import — but genuine classics get a major tax break.

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

Vehicles of historic interest (typically 30+ years, original spec) can qualify for 0% duty and 5% VAT.

Documentation proving the car meets the "collectors' item" criteria is essential.

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 — EU classic car, Germany → UK, 2026
Vehicle (purchase price)	$35,000
Export agent & auction fees	$1,200
Ocean freight	$900
Marine insurance (~1.5%)	$525
Classics over 30 years may qualify for 0% duty	$0
Qualifying classics can use a reduced 5% import VAT	$1,821
Customs broker & port handling	$830
EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork	$300
Inland transport & registration	$1,500
Estimated all-in landed cost	$42,076

HMRC commodity codes for historic vehicles unlock the reduced rates; keep originality evidence.

Reduced VAT?+

Qualifying classics can use 5% instead of 20%.

Age threshold?+

Generally 30+ years and original spec.