If you’re thinking about shipping your vehicle from the UK to Southeast Asia, it’s a process that requires careful planning and expert guidance.
Whether you’re relocating, selling your car abroad, or simply want to enjoy your prized vehicle in a new country, exporting a car from the UK to SE Asia involves several important steps. At SLG Logistics, we’re here to guide you through this process and make sure your vehicle reaches its destination safely and efficiently.
Temporary Export vs Permanent Export
The process and paperwork needed to export a car from the UK are different depending on whether you are exporting the vehicle permanently or for less than 12 months.
Taking a vehicle abroad for less than 12 months
Temporary export is great if you’re planning to be away for a short time, maybe for work or an extended holiday. The big advantage is that you can bring your car back to the UK without paying import duty when you return, which can save you money if you’re not planning to stay abroad for good. Keep in mind, though, that some countries might ask for a specific document called a Carnet de Passages en Douane. Think of this as a passport for your car – it helps smooth the process of taking your car in and out of countries.
Exporting a car permanently or for more than 12 months
You should choose permanent export if you’re moving abroad for more than 12 months or if you’re planning to sell your car in another country. If you choose this option, you’ll need to notify the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) and cancel your UK vehicle tax.
Prepare Your Paperwork for UK Customs and Export Procedures
Gather all necessary paperwork:
- Check that you have your V5C (vehicle log book) and proof of ownership. If you’re not the registered keeper of the car you’re exporting, get a letter of authority showing you are permitted to export the car.
- For exports for more than 12 months, notify the DVLA and request your Vehicle Tax refund (if applicable) to be sent to your new address.
- Complete and submit a National Export System (NES) declaration. This document provides important information about your vehicle and the export details.
- Depending on your vehicle and destination, you may need to obtain specific export licenses. These requirements can vary, so it’s important to check what’s needed for your particular situation. Our team can talk you through this if you’re not sure.
- Consider the VAT implications and related paperwork, especially for newer vehicles. The rules around VAT can be tricky, and it’s particularly important to consider if your car is relatively new or if you’re planning to reclaim VAT.
If you own the vehicle
UK customs might check if your car still has any unpaid loans, especially for new or expensive vehicles. If you do owe money, don’t worry – you can still usually ship your car. Just include a letter from the loan company okaying that you are taking your vehicle abroad and be prepared to show this to customs. This way, you’re being honest and following the rules, which helps avoid problems later on.
Buying a new or used car to export
If you’re buying a vehicle to take overseas, make sure the seller follows the correct process for selling a vehicle and gives you the full log book (V5C), not just the new keeper slip. This is really important for exporting the car and registering it in another country. Always tell the seller your plans to take the car abroad so they can give you the right paperwork.
Taking a hire vehicle abroad
If you are temporarily taking a hire or lease car to SE Asia, you will need to get a VE103 Vehicle on Hire certificate from your vehicle rental or leasing company to show you are allowed to the vehicle abroad. HMRC advise that you can buy a VE103 from third parties like the RAC.
At SLG Logistics, we understand that these procedures can seem overwhelming. That’s why our team is well-versed in UK customs regulations and ready to handle these procedures on your behalf. We guarantee full compliance with all requirements, helping you avoid delays and potential issues. With our expertise, you can rest easy knowing that your vehicle’s export process is in capable hands.
Preparing your Vehicle for Export
Alongside sorting out the paperwork, you’ll need to prepare your car for export too:
Vehicle Condition
Conduct a thorough inspection and address any mechanical issues. This will ensure your car arrives in top condition and will help avoid potential issues with customs.
Cleaning
Many SE Asian countries have strict biosecurity measures. Give your car a deep clean, paying special attention to the undercarriage and wheel wells to remove any soil or plant material.
Shipping Options for Your Car
There are different ways you can ship your vehicle abroad, but the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of car you’re shipping.
Sea freight shipping is often the go-to option for those looking for the highest level of protection. This method is ideal for luxury or classic cars that require extra care during transit as your vehicle is securely placed inside a container, shielding it from the elements and potential damage. An added bonus is that you can often ship personal items alongside your car, making it a convenient option for those who are relocating.
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is a more economical choice that’s well-suited for standard vehicles. In this method, your car is driven directly onto the ship and securely fastened for the journey. RoRo shipping offers a faster loading and unloading process, which can mean shorter overall transit times. It’s a popular choice for those looking to balance cost and efficiency.
For those with high-value cars or urgent shipping needs, air freight is an option to consider. While it’s the fastest way to transport your vehicle, it’s also the most expensive. This method is typically recommended for rare, extremely valuable cars or when time is of the essence.
To help you compare these options at a glance, here’s a quick comparison table:
| Shipping Method | Protection Level | Cost | Speed | Best For |
| Container | High | High | Moderate | Luxury/classic cars, shipping with personal items |
| RoRo | Moderate | Low | Fast | Standard vehicles, budget-conscious shipping |
| Air Freight | High | Very High | Very Fast | High-value cars, urgent shipments |
Shipping Process
When your car is ready to begin its journey, SLG Logistics will take charge so you have a seamless shipping process.
Our first step is to secure space with a trusted shipping line, carefully choosing the best option for your specific needs. We then coordinate the safe delivery of your vehicle to the port, managing all necessary logistics.
Once at the port, our experienced team supervises the loading process, ensuring your car is properly secured for its voyage. To keep you fully informed, we provide detailed tracking information, allowing you to monitor your shipment’s progress at any time.
Throughout the entire process, SLG Logistics serves as your dedicated representative on the ground, keeping you updated every step of the way. Our goal is to make your car’s international journey as stress-free as possible by expertly handling all the details, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move or business venture.
Arrivals and Customs Clearance in SE Asia
Upon arrival in Southeast Asia, your car will need to clear customs. Requirements vary by country but generally include:
- Original vehicle documentation
- Bill of lading
- Proof of ownership
- Import permits
SLG Logistics has extensive experience with SE Asian customs clearance and can help anticipate and address any challenges that may arise.
Registration and Compliance in SE Asian Countries
Each Southeast Asian country has its own unique set of regulations, and it’s important to comply with the specific rules for your destination:
Thailand
Thailand is known for its strict import regulations and high import duties. These measures can significantly impact the cost and feasibility of bringing your vehicle into the country.
Malaysia
To import a car to Malaysia, you’ll need to get specific permits for vehicle importation. Malaysia imposes age restrictions on imported vehicles, which means that older cars may face difficulties or even be prohibited from entering the country.
Singapore
Singapore takes a different approach with its quota system for vehicle registration, coupled with high taxes. This system is designed to control the number of vehicles on the island, making car ownership in Singapore a costly endeavour.
Given the complexity and variability of these regulations, it’s necessary to research the specific requirements of your destination country thoroughly. At SLG Logistics, we understand how daunting this can be. That’s why our team is committed to providing you with up-to-date information and expert assistance in navigating these complex regulations.
Choose SLG Logistics for Shipping Your Car from the UK
Exporting a car from the UK to Southeast Asia doesn’t have to be stressful. With SLG Logistics as your trusted partner, you can enjoy a smooth, hassle-free experience that takes the pain out of international vehicle shipping. Our expertise in this specialised field, combined with our deep understanding of both UK and Southeast Asian regulations, makes us the ideal choice for your vehicle export needs. Our competitive rates and flexible shipping options mean that you receive the best value for your investment. Put your vehicle’s journey in safe hands. Get a quote today from SLG Logistics today for a personalised service.