To buy or not to buy? Customs / Import Tax and VAT worries
Posted: Wed Nov 07, 2012 1:51 am
Hi, newbie here, buying a 1972 Lotus rolling chassis left-hand drive American import, no engine or gearbox.
Unfortunately, absolutely no paperwork with it either.
A good few years ago the current owner brought the car parts over to the UK in a cargo container, along with other stuff. Current owner decided to save car parts and attempt a rebuild. But now its an unfinished project.
I hope to complete the rebuild, (Lotus engine / Gearbox, or short 1600 ford cross flow engine and 1600E gearbox needed please).
I wish to use the car on the UK/ European roads, so must get it registered.
Does anyone know what my liability is in regard to import tax and VAT please
DVLA are sending me a form; and so are Customs and Excise.
Neither where they very helpful on the phone. Very confusing! Both said they needed forms filled in and additional money from me.
One Customs guy said "you didn't import the car, so you should not be liable"; another chap said if no paperwork is available then "10% of cost of car for import duty; and 20% VAT are payable by me.
Current owner said car was spare parts so should be exempt from these costs.
Who is correct?
KIND REGARDS,
CARJAM
Unfortunately, absolutely no paperwork with it either.
A good few years ago the current owner brought the car parts over to the UK in a cargo container, along with other stuff. Current owner decided to save car parts and attempt a rebuild. But now its an unfinished project.
I hope to complete the rebuild, (Lotus engine / Gearbox, or short 1600 ford cross flow engine and 1600E gearbox needed please).
I wish to use the car on the UK/ European roads, so must get it registered.
Does anyone know what my liability is in regard to import tax and VAT please
DVLA are sending me a form; and so are Customs and Excise.
Neither where they very helpful on the phone. Very confusing! Both said they needed forms filled in and additional money from me.
One Customs guy said "you didn't import the car, so you should not be liable"; another chap said if no paperwork is available then "10% of cost of car for import duty; and 20% VAT are payable by me.
Current owner said car was spare parts so should be exempt from these costs.
Who is correct?
KIND REGARDS,
CARJAM