Importing a campervan from Germany can save you money — German vans are often cheaper and better specified than UK equivalents.
Why Import
- German vans are typically rust-free (no salt on German roads in winter)
- Better specification (heated seats, higher trim levels)
- Often maintained to a high standard (TÜV inspection is strict)
- LHD can be a positive for European travel
Costs
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Purchase price (example: 2018 Crafter) | £15,000-25,000 |
| Transport to UK | £500-1,000 |
| Import VAT (5% of purchase price, reduced rate) | £750-1,250 if over 6 months old |
| Registration fee (DVLA) | £55 |
| Speedometer conversion (if needed) | £200-400 |
| Headlight conversion | £50-100 |
| MOT | £55 |
| Total extra | £1,600-2,800 |
The Process
- Buy the van in Germany (check TÜV validity — a recent TÜV saves money)
- Drive or ship it to the UK
- Submit NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrivals) to HMRC
- Pay any import VAT
- Apply for UK registration (V55/5 form)
- Get an MOT within 14 days of arrival
- Fit UK number plates
TÜV vs MOT
TÜV is the German equivalent of MOT but more thorough. A van with valid TÜV (less than 1 year old) is on UK roads within days. A van without TÜV needs a full inspection before you can drive it to a UK MOT station.
Pitfalls
- LHD is more difficult to sell in the UK
- Some insurance companies charge more for LHD
- No sat-nav or radio in English
- Speedometer in km/h (must display mph — digital readout is acceptable)
