Importing cars from canada to the UK.

[cardiffrob]

I've been offered a chance to buy a very nice classic British car from Canada (Ontario) and wondered if anyone here has done something similar enough to be able to give me an idea of the possible problems involved and an idea of the costs, too.
Would it have to go in a container or can it go on a drive-on ship, as I assume US built cars are shipped to the UK.
It would save me the misery of having to spend months welding up rust hole repairs from rainy UK weather.

Any tips would be most welcomed!

Thanks

Rob

 

[Shox Dr]

I imported a pick up from the states last August. Dealt with a company from Hull called Kingston Shipping, very proffessional.

As the truck could be driven I elected for RORO, as it's cheaper, and I believe to be be a safer option damage wise [seen too many dropped shipping containers]

As it was pre 1950 there was no duty and only 5%VAT. although anything older than 35yrs can make a claim for reduced VAT. All in it cost me just short of £1900:

Delivery to port.
Shipping
UK Duties
Maritime Insurance

 

[Stueeee]

Have bought a few vehicles back from the US. If you ship in a container, you can bring other stuff back in the car or just loaded in the container. If you ship RoRo you can't put anything else in the vehicle -last time I asked, there wasn't a great deal of difference in the price of a 20' container and RoRo shipping from NJ. Have also used Kingstown shipping, but recently only for the UK customs clearance etc.

 

[gaz_moose]

if you ship it RoRo (roll on roll off) get your shipping agent to remove any shiny bits like snazzy gear knobs/gauges as the dock workers love to steal things like this.

 

[Shox Dr]

Gaz M I heard that but only on the East Coast. I saved over 250quid going RORO

 

[gaz_moose]

it happens to some people getting cars shipped over from japan. ive heard of ECU's/engine parts and even seats going missing.