Step-by-Step Method to Relocate Car and Furniture from Nigeria to the UK

When it comes to moving your belongings abroad, you have two primary options: air freight and sea freight.

Air freight offers quick transportation but comes at a higher cost, making it ideal for last-minute moves.

On the other hand, sea freight is a more affordable choice, where your belongings are placed inside shipping containers and transported by container ships.

For relocating furniture and cars from Nigeria to the UK, sea freight is the recommended and most cost-effective option.

Method to Relocate Your Car and Furniture from Nigeria to the UK

Relocating Your Car/Furniture as a Nigerian Resident

If you’re in Nigeria and want to relocate your car and furniture to the UK, the process is relatively straightforward.

You need to pay a shipping company to handle the logistics for you. They will assist you with the necessary paperwork and transportation arrangements to ensure a smooth relocation process.

Relocating Your Car/Furniture as a UK Resident

If you are a UK resident and want to bring your car and furniture from Nigeria to the UK, there are specific steps you need to follow:

Notifying HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)

Within 14 days of bringing your vehicle to the UK permanently, you must notify HMRC.

This ensures compliance with legal requirements and allows for the processing of necessary import paperwork.

You can either handle this task yourself or seek assistance from an importer or shipping company.

Paying VAT and Duty

Upon notification, HMRC may instruct you to pay Value Added Tax (VAT) and duty on the imported vehicle.

The VAT rate and duty amount will depend on the type and value of the car. Paying these fees is crucial to fulfilling financial obligations and completing the import process smoothly.

Obtaining Vehicle Approval

To ensure your vehicle meets safety and environmental standards in the UK, you need to obtain vehicle approval.

This involves getting your car inspected and certified by authorized agencies or testing centers.

Compliance with these standards ensures the safety of your vehicle and contributes to a cleaner environment.

Registering and Taxing the Vehicle with DVLA

After obtaining vehicle approval, you must register and tax your imported vehicle with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

The DVLA will issue a registration number, allowing you to acquire number plates for your car.

Registering your vehicle is essential for legal ownership and enables you to access benefits and services provided by the DVLA.

Insuring Your Vehicle

Before driving your imported vehicle on UK roads, it is mandatory to have valid insurance coverage.

Adequate insurance protects you against unforeseen circumstances and provides financial protection in case of accidents or damages.

It is advisable to shop around for insurance providers to find the best coverage that suits your needs and budget.

Importing a Damaged, Rebuilt, or Modified Vehicle

If your vehicle has undergone significant changes such as damage repair, rebuild, or modifications, it is crucial to check if it can be registered in the UK before importing it.

Certain modifications or extensive damages may impact the vehicle’s eligibility for registration, so it’s important to clarify these aspects beforehand.

Documents Requirements to Relocate Your Cars and Furniture to the UK

To facilitate the relocation process, you will need to prepare the following documents:

Valid Passport and Visa

Ensure that your passport is up to date and that you have the correct visa to enter and stay in the UK if you are outside the country.

Check with the British embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.

Residence Permit

If you plan to live in the UK for an extended period, you may need to apply for a residence permit.

This special card allows you to stay in the country legally. Refer to the UK government’s website or contact the British embassy for more information.

Documents for Your Car

If you want to bring your car to the UK, you will need the following documents:

Vehicle Registration Documents: These papers show that you own the car.

Insurance: Proof of insurance coverage for your car.

Vehicle Inspection: Some countries require a check to ensure your car is in good condition before exporting it.

Import Permit: In some cases, you may need a special document from the UK to bring your car there. You can inquire with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for more details.

Customs Documents: You may need to fill out certain customs papers when importing your car into the UK. These documents ask for information about your car, its value, and whether you plan to keep it in the UK.

Shipping Companies Operational from Nigeria to the UK

To ensure a smooth relocation process, it is recommended to hire shipping companies with experience in handling cargo from Nigeria to the UK.

Here is a list of 10 shipping companies that offer services on this route:

FAQs

What is the Impact of Brexit on Shipping into the UK?

Brexit has had significant implications on trade and commerce, including the introduction of new tariffs and customs duties on imported cars and furniture.

What are Personal Allowances in the UK?

Personal allowances determine the amount of goods you can bring into the UK without having to pay tax or duty. However, these allowances do not apply to goods intended for sale or business use.

Conclusion

To ensure a smooth relocation process, follow the step-by-step method outlined for both Nigerian and UK residents.

Make sure to fulfill all the requirements, including notifying HMRC, paying VAT and duty, obtaining vehicle approval, registering and taxing the vehicle with DVLA, and securing insurance coverage.

Prepare the required documents and consider hiring reputable shipping companies to assist you with the process.