International car transport is a great option for getting your car from one country to another. But there are a few things to consider before moving your car overseas. First, decide where to transport and how long you’ll be staying. These factors will help determine what paperwork needs to be filled out and the type of export to apply.
Then, you need to choose the right international car transport company. There are many companies that offer this service, so do your research to find one that’s reputable and has experience transporting cars internationally.
Finally, while considering international car transport, there are some legitimate things you need to take into account. Here’s a checklist of things you need to do in order to ensure a smooth process.
The Legitimate Checklist For International Car Transport.
- Update the V5C ( Vehicle registration document) logbook.
V5C is your vehicle logbook required by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) that tracks your vehicle’s registration and taxation history, so it must be updated when circumstances change. For example, if you’re changing your address, you have to update your V5C, which is free to do online on the DVLA website.
Moreover, it must include a viable, current address and your details so that the DVLA knows where and to whom the car is registered. If you’re transporting your car internationally, you’ll need to ensure your V5C is up-to-date.
In addition, you have to take your V5C logbook with you during transport, as you have to present it at the port while driving abroad. International transport can be a complicated process, but ensuring your paperwork is in order will help you have a smooth journey.
- Get your ICMV (International Certificate of Motor Vehicles).
International transport will be a headache if you don’t have all the right paperwork. One such document you’ll need is an ICMV or International Certificate of Motor Vehicles. This is a multilingual translation of V5C, and it’s required if you’re planning on driving in countries like Somalia, Mexico, or Liechtenstein.
The good news is that UK-registered vehicles are eligible for an ICMV, valid for 12 months. Plus, obtaining an ICMV is simple and free of charge, and it can be done on the DVLA website. All you need is proof that you’re the vehicle owner and that you’ll be leaving the UK for no more than 12 months. The application process is quick and easy; you can also choose to email or post your application.
- Pay import duty and purchase CPD (carnet de passages en Douane).
When you move to a new country, one of the big questions is: how are you going to get your car there? You need to pay import duty on your vehicle, depending on where you’re moving. To find out which category you fall into, you need to check your relevant country guides or check with the authorities in your destination country.
If you’re moving to a country outside the EU, you need to purchase a CPD Carnet. This allows you to take your car into the destination country without paying import duties. It makes stress-free transitions and crossing the border a lot easier.
You can apply for one via the DVLA website, and once you’ve paid a fee, you can receive your CPD within 4 weeks of applying.
- Laws for temporary/permanent export.
While planning a temporary move abroad is exciting, it’s important to remember that UK law still applies. This is especially important when it comes to your taxes and insurance. So make sure you sort everything before you go to avoid any problems. Also, check your new country’s international and national conditions for licencing and taxation, so you’re completely prepared.
Registering for permanent export is the first step to ensuring a smooth transition when moving abroad permanently. By filling out the required paperwork, you can avoid any stressful surprises. Moreover, to let DVLA know your plans, you must correctly complete the “permanent export” section of your vehicle logbook.
Once everything is in order, send this portion to the DVLA along with a letter requesting your vehicle tax refund (if applicable). Keep in mind that you may not be entitled to one, so it’s best to check beforehand. And don’t forget to hang on to the rest of your V5C, which you’ll need when it comes time to register your vehicle in your new country.
If you’re looking to transport your car overseas, be sure to use a reputable company and check off all the items on this checklist. It’ll make for an easier process and ensure your car transportation is stress-free.