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Interested in a car listed on Prixvo but unsure how to import it to your country? We are here to help.
We partner with some of the most trusted names in exotic and classic car shipping: CARS Shipping and The Stables to make it easy to get you your car.
To get a quote or ask any questions regarding the process, reach out to shipping@prixvo.com or +971 50 789 1564, or reach out directly to our partners on their sites.
All vehicles require an RTA Export Certificate to be exported from Dubai. Reach out to shipping@prixvo.com with help obtaining.
See below for detailed information on how to import a car from the UAE into your country:
Updated as of July 2nd 2024
We strongly recommend working with our two preferred partners, CARS Shipping and The Stables to make it as easy as possible to import your car to the United States.
See below on the requirements from the US Customs and Border Protection. We provide a step by step guide, extracted from the Agency’s website.
How to Import a Vehicle from the GCC to the U.S. – A Step-by-Step Guide
Importing a vehicle into the U.S. involves compliance with various regulations set by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Department of Transportation (DOT). This guide simplifies the process for American buyers looking to purchase and import vehicles from the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council).
Key Requirements
Compliance Standards: Vehicles must meet U.S. safety, bumper, and emission standards.
Documentation: Essential documents include the original bill of lading, bill of sale, foreign registration, EPA form 3520-1, and DOT form HS-7.
Steps to Import a Vehicle
1. Check Compliance
Verify if the vehicle meets U.S. safety, bumper, and emission standards.
Vehicles not meeting these standards need modifications through a Registered Importer (RI) and Independent Commercial Importer (ICI) for EPA compliance.
2. Arrange Shipping
Make shipping arrangements and ensure the shipper notifies you of the arrival date.
Consider using a CBP broker for entry processing.
3. Prepare Documentation
Gather necessary documents: bill of lading, bill of sale, foreign registration.
Complete EPA form 3520-1 and DOT form HS-7.
4. Cleaning
Clean the vehicle’s undercarriage to remove foreign soil, as required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
5. Arrival and CBP Processing
Vehicles are usually cleared at the first port of entry unless otherwise arranged.
Present all documentation to CBP for clearance.
6. Duty and Taxes
Pay applicable duties: Autos (2.5%), Trucks (25%), Motorcycles (2.4% or free).
U.S. residents may apply a $800 CBP exemption towards the vehicle’s value.
7. Safety and Emission Modifications
Nonconforming vehicles must be modified by an RI and ICI to meet U.S. standards.
The RI will certify compliance, and the ICI will handle emissions modifications.
8. Temporary Importation (if applicable)
Vehicles imported for racing, testing, or display need prior EPA and DOT approval.
Vehicles must be exported within a year and cannot be sold in the U.S.
Important Considerations:
Non-Compliance Risks: Vehicles not meeting standards must be brought into compliance, exported, or destroyed.
Gas-Guzzler Tax: Some vehicles may be subject to this tax based on fuel economy ratings.
EPA and DOT Hotline: Contact EPA at (734) 214-4100 and DOT at (202) 366-5291 for additional information.
Exceptions:
Vehicles imported by nonresidents for personal use (up to one year).
Vehicles imported by foreign diplomats or military personnel.
Vehicles for racing or temporary display (with prior approval).
Additional Resources:
CBP Information: Visit CBP’s website for more details.
EPA Information: Contact EPA at (734) 214-4100 or visit their Importing Vehicles and Engines page.
DOT Information: Contact DOT at (202) 366-5291 or visit their NHTSA page.
We strongly recommend working with our preferred partners, CARS Shipping and The Stables to make it as easy as possible to import your car to the United Kingdom. You can also get a quote from Ship My Car UK here.
Initial Considerations and Costs: Before beginning the import process, consider the costs involved, including shipping, taxes, and modifications required for UK standards.
Shipping Your Vehicle:
Container Shipping: Most cars are shipped using container shipping for protection.
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping: An alternative where the car is driven onto the ship and secured.
Documentation Needed:
Proof of Ownership: Such as the original title and purchase invoice.
Export Certificate: Issued by the UAE traffic department.
Bill of Lading: Provided by the shipping company.
UK Customs:
Notify HMRC: Within 14 days of the car’s arrival in the UK, notify HMRC and pay any VAT and duty.
Customs Clearance: Present all necessary documents for customs clearance.
Modifications for UK Standards:
Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA): Ensure the vehicle meets UK standards, which may involve modifications like converting the speedometer to miles per hour, adjusting headlights, and emissions tests.
Type Approval: If your vehicle has EU type approval, you might need a Certificate of Conformity (CoC).
Vehicle Registration:
DVLA Application: Submit a completed V55/5 form, proof of identity, proof of vehicle approval, and necessary fees.
Road Tax and MOT: Obtain road tax and an MOT certificate if the vehicle is over 3 years old.
Insurance: Ensure your vehicle is insured for driving in the UK.
MyCarImport can help with their thorough FAQ as well.
We strongly recommend working with our two preferred partners, CARS Shipping and The Stables to make it as easy as possible to import your car to the EU.
How to Import a Vehicle from UAE to Europe – A Step-by-Step Guide
Importing a vehicle from UAE to Europe involves several steps, including documentation, shipping arrangements, customs clearance, homologation, and registration. This guide provides a simplified process to help you navigate these requirements efficiently.
Required Documents
Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya): Proof of vehicle ownership.
Export Certificate: Issued by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
Certificate of Insurance: Valid insurance documentation.
Passport and Emirates ID: Proof of identity.
Proof of Residence in Europe: Necessary for registration in Europe.
1. Arrange Shipping
Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) Shipping: Cost-effective method where the car is driven onto a ship and secured.
Container Shipping: More expensive but offers added protection by packing the car into a container.
2. Customs Clearance
Engage a customs broker to handle paperwork and ensure the vehicle clears customs in Europe.
3. Homologation
If the vehicle is not from the European Union, it may require homologation.
Homologation certifies that the vehicle meets European safety and emissions standards.
The process varies by country.
4. Registration
After customs clearance and homologation, the vehicle can be registered.
Registration processes vary by country.
5. Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
What is CoC?: A Certificate of Conformity is a document issued by the vehicle manufacturer certifying that the vehicle complies with European Union regulations.
When is it Required?: The CoC is generally required for registering vehicles in most European countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Belgium (EUROCOC) (COC France) .
Obtaining a CoC: It can be obtained from the vehicle manufacturer or their authorized representatives.
Country-Specific Considerations
France: Requires a CoC for registering imported vehicles. If a vehicle does not have a CoC, it may need to undergo a single vehicle approval process (COC France) .
Germany: Similar to France, a CoC is essential for registration. Without it, the vehicle needs to pass individual approval tests (COC France) .
Italy and Spain: Also require a CoC for vehicle registration (COC France) .
Additional Tips
Research Country-Specific Requirements: Each European country may have unique requirements for vehicle importation and registration.
Consult with Experts: Engaging a professional car exporter or customs broker can simplify the process.
Cost Considerations: Be aware of additional costs such as import duties, taxes, and homologation fees.
Useful Contacts
Vehicle Manufacturers: For obtaining the Certificate of Conformity.
Customs Brokers: For handling customs clearance.
Authorized Economic Operator (AEO)
AEO status is an internationally recognized quality mark indicating that our partner CARS role in the international supply chain is secure, and that our customs controls and procedures are efficient and compliant.
