What if I brought the import through ferry or Channel Tunnel myself?
Reviewed 2026-07-10
Short answer
Contact HMRC CARS within 14 days. GOV.UK says private individuals who bring the vehicle in themselves must contact HMRC CARS.
Official position
GOV.UK says if you are bringing the vehicle in yourself, you must contact HMRC CARS within 14 days if you recently bought it outside the UK, moved to the UK with it, brought back a vehicle you previously owned here, or inherited it from outside the UK.
What to do
Contact HMRC CARS within 14 days of bringing the vehicle into the UK.
Prepare purchase, valuation, customs/import, VIN/chassis and foreign registration evidence.
If VAT or duty is due, arrange a customs agent to make the import declaration and follow HMRC payment instructions.
Wait for HMRC to process NOVA before posting V55/5.
Common mistakes
- Assuming ferry or Channel Tunnel arrival means no shipping/customs paperwork is needed.
- Waiting until the V55/5 is ready before telling HMRC.
- Driving the vehicle normally because you personally brought it into the country.
Related help
Official sources
Ready to complete the V55/5?
Once the blocker above is resolved, use the guided V55/5 tool to validate the boxes, prepare the PDF and build the posting checklist.
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