Cost to Ship a Car from Australia to the UK Made Simple


Suppose you're moving internationally from Straya to Britain. In that case, you may wonder if bringing your car with you is practical or if you'd be better off selling it in Straya and buying another vehicle when you arrive in Britain. Read on and see how much you can expect to pay.
How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car From Australia To The UK?
Shipping your vehicle from Straya to Britain via ocean-going freight will usually cost you about AUD 2,000, but this can vary depending on many factors, such as the type of delivery you choose, the size and weight of the vehicle, the total distance of your shipment, and the time frame for delivering the car.
It's essential to consult with an experienced international car transport service before you ship your vehicle from Straya to Britain and get a quote for the cost and arrival time. Shopping around can also be a good idea to ensure you get an industry-standard rate.
| Shipping Option | Estimated Cost (AUD) | Transit Time | Best For | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) | $2,000 – $3,200 | 6–10 weeks | Standard vehicles | Basic port-to-port transport |
| Shared Container Shipping | $2,800 – $3,900 | 8–10 weeks | Budget-conscious with some protection | Space in a container, moderate security |
| Dedicated Container Shipping | $3,500 – $4,700+ | 6–9 weeks | High-value or classic vehicles | Full container, high protection, personal items allowed |

What Will I Pay At Customs When I Cargo A Vehicle From Straya To Britain?
You won't pay any taxes if you are a British citizen or resident, have owned the car for over six months, and have resided in Straya for 12 months or longer. Otherwise, you may need to pay up to 20% VAT and 10% duty.
20% VAT and 10% import duty are charged on all vehicles manufactured outside the EU, including any car you'd bring from Straya. Cars made in the EU will be charged a 20% VAT and a duty of £50. Additionally, if the vehicle is 30+ years old and not extensively modified, you will pay 5% VAT and no other fees.
Shipping a car from Australia to the UK involves several considerations beyond just the transportation cost. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Vehicle Compliance and Testing
Vehicles imported from Australia must comply with UK road standards. If your car is under ten years old, an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test will likely be required to ensure it meets UK safety and environmental regulations. This process can be complex, especially if the manufacturer does not provide your vehicle's 'Model Report'. The requirements may differ for cars over ten years old, but it's essential to verify the specific obligations for your vehicle.
Shipping Methods and Costs
Shipping a car from Australia to the UK typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,700, depending on the shipping method (Roll-on/Roll-off vs. container), vehicle size, and departure port. Transit times can vary between 6 and 10 weeks. Choosing a reputable shipping company that offers comprehensive services, including customs clearance and delivery, can help streamline the process.
By understanding these aspects, import duties, vehicle compliance, and shipping logistics, you can better prepare for shipping your car from Australia to the UK. Consulting with experienced international auto transport providers can further assist in navigating the complexities involved.

Are There Other Costs Associated With Forwarding A Four Wheeler From Straya To Britain?
Yes. If your car is under ten years old, it must comply with British safety standards. For example, it may need a rear fog light or a change to the speedometer to read in MPH rather than KPH. You will need to pay to make these modifications.
Cars over ten years old have slightly different safety requirements, but they must still pass an MOT safety test and may need modifications to meet Britain's standards. Vehicles over 40 years old typically do not require tests or changes.
Import Duties and Taxes
You may be subject to import duties and Value Added Tax (VAT) when importing a vehicle into the UK. The standard import duty is 10% of the vehicle's value, and VAT is typically 20%. However, if you're relocating to the UK and meet certain conditions, you might be eligible for relief under the Transfer of Residence (ToR) scheme, which can exempt you from these charges. To qualify, you must have lived outside the UK for at least 12 months and owned the vehicle for at least six months before moving.

Deliver Your Automobile From Straya To Britain With A-1 AT
Shipping an automobile from Straya to Britain might be expensive because of the country's strict customs regulations. But with A-1 Auto Transport, you'll get excellent service from seasoned logistics pros at surprisingly affordable rates. Call or contact us online to get a price and set up your auto transport from Straya to Britain.

Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from Australia to the UK?
Shipping a car from Australia to the UK usually costs between 2,000 and 4,700 USD. Pricing is driven by distance, shipping method, vehicle size, fuel surcharges, and port fees. Roll-on roll-off is typically cheaper than container shipping, while enclosed containers cost more but add protection. Inland transport on either end and seasonal demand can also increase totals. For broader pricing factors, see our international car shipping guide.
How long does it take to ship a car from Australia to the UK?
Transit time from Australia to the UK averages 6 to 10 weeks. Ocean freight usually takes 4 to 7 weeks, followed by UK port processing, customs clearance, and possible inland delivery. Departures from Sydney or Melbourne to Southampton or Felixstowe are most common. Delays may occur during peak shipping seasons, port congestion, or when additional inspections are required.
What shipping methods are available from Australia to the UK?
The two main options are Roll-on roll-off and container shipping. RoRo is the most cost-effective but requires the vehicle to be drivable and empty. Container shipping costs more but allows added protection and limited personal items. High-value or classic vehicles often use enclosed containers. Method choice directly impacts cost, security, and scheduling flexibility. Learn more about RoRo shipping costs.
What import taxes and duties apply when bringing a car into the UK?
Most vehicles imported into the UK are subject to 10 percent customs duty plus 20 percent VAT, calculated on the vehicle’s CIF value. Some vehicles qualify for relief under personal transfer of residence or classic car rules. MOT testing and DVLA registration are additional post-arrival costs. Many owners estimate totals in advance using a UK car import duty calculator to avoid surprises.
Should I choose enclosed container shipping for valuable vehicles?
Enclosed container shipping is recommended for classic, luxury, or rare vehicles. While more expensive, it protects against salt air, weather exposure, and handling risks during long ocean voyages. This method also reduces inspection exposure at ports. Owners shipping collector cars or restorations often prefer this option despite the higher upfront cost. See benefits of enclosed auto transport.
Can I ship a non-running car from Australia to the UK?
Yes, non-running vehicles can be shipped, but container shipping is required. Extra costs apply for winching, forklifts, or specialized loading equipment at the port. Vehicles must still roll and steer in most cases. Advance disclosure is critical, as improper booking can cause delays or refusal at export terminals. Non-operable vehicles generally cost more to ship than standard drivable cars.

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