How to Sell a European Imported Car in the UK (Complete Guide)
Thinking about selling your imported European car in the UK? Whether it’s a sleek German saloon or a sporty Italian coupe, there are specific steps and legal requirements you need to follow to make the sale smooth, legal, and profitable.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to sell an imported European car in the UK—including registration, VAT and duty, essential documents, the V5C, and MOT requirements.
1. Understand the Type of Import: Personal vs. Commercial
First, determine how your vehicle was imported. There are two main categories:
- Personal import: Brought in by an individual for personal use.
- Commercial import: Imported by a dealer or for resale.
This distinction can affect VAT, duty, and even how the car is registered.
2. Ensure the Car is Properly Registered in the UK
To sell an imported European car in the UK, it must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). If it’s not yet registered, you’ll need to:
- Get vehicle approval: For most imports, you’ll need an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) or Mutual Recognition approval.
- Submit V55/4 or V55/5 form: This form registers your car with the DVLA.
- Provide proof of identity, insurance, and vehicle approval documents.
Once approved, DVLA will issue a UK registration number and V5C logbook.
3. Pay Any VAT and Duty (If Applicable)
If the car was imported from an EU country, and:
- It was brought in before Brexit (before 1 Jan 2021), you likely won’t owe VAT or duty.
- After Brexit, VAT and import duty may apply—even if the car came from an EU country.
To settle VAT and duty:
- Use the Nova system (Notification of Vehicle Arrivals) to declare the import.
- HMRC will tell you if any payment is due.
You can’t register or sell the car legally without declaring it in NOVA.
4. Gather the Right Documents for Sale
Buyers in the UK expect a full paper trail, especially for imported vehicles. Before listing your car, make sure you have:
- V5C logbook (UK registration certificate) – This proves legal ownership.
- MOT certificate – Required if the car is over 3 years old.
- Service history – Helps build buyer trust.
- European documentation – Original purchase invoice, old registration documents, EU Certificate of Conformity (if available).
- NOVA confirmation – Shows VAT and duty obligations are settled.
Missing documents can turn buyers away or significantly lower the value.
5. Get a Valid MOT
To legally drive or sell the car in the UK, it must have a valid MOT test certificate (if over 3 years old). The MOT ensures the car is roadworthy and meets environmental standards.
If the car has been sitting or wasn’t MOT’d after import, book a test. You can only drive to a pre-booked MOT without one.
6. Highlight Unique Selling Points
Imported European cars often have features not found in UK models—such as better tech, trims, or engines. When creating your ad:
- Emphasize low mileage, high spec, or rare features.
- Mention full service history and original EU documentation.
- Be honest about any drawbacks (e.g., speedometer in km/h, left-hand drive).
Being upfront builds trust and helps you find the right buyer.
7. Advertise in the Right Places
To reach buyers looking specifically for European imports, try:
- AutoTrader
- PistonHeads
- eBay Motors
- Facebook Marketplace
- Specialist forums or import car groups
Use keywords like “EU import,” “German-spec,” “European model,” and be clear about the vehicle’s origin.
8. Be Transparent and Prepare for Questions
Buyers will have questions about:
- Import status
- Warranty and parts availability
- Insurance costs
- Service history and condition
Make sure you have all the answers ready, and don’t hide anything that might come up during a vehicle history check.
9. Finalise the Sale Legally
Once you’ve agreed on a sale:
- Fill in the V5C/2 “new keeper” section or complete the online ownership transfer on the DVLA website.
- Provide the buyer with:
- A receipt
- MOT certificate
- Service history and documents
- Your contact details in case any issues arise
- A receipt
Always keep a copy of the sales agreement for your records.
Final Thoughts
Selling a European imported car in the UK doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does require attention to detail. From registration and VAT to documents and MOT, getting everything in order ensures a smooth and legal sale.By following the steps above, you can successfully sell your imported European car in the UK and get the best price while keeping everything above board.