Brexit has introduced a new era of complexity and uncertainty for car shipping and trade between the UK and its trading partners. Businesses and individuals dealing with UK import of vehicles must navigate evolving customs rules, tariffs, and trade pressures. Below are the major changes, challenges, and strategies for adapting. New Customs Rules & Paperwork for UK Import Before Brexit, UK import of vehicles from EU member states benefitted from streamlined procedures under the European single market. Post-Brexit, every vehicle entering the UK, whether from the EU or outside, must confirm to full customs formalities.
 Declarations, value assessments, origin proofs, and inspections now apply broadly.
 Delays are more common at ports because of increased checks.
 For businesses managing fleet imports, these extra steps increase administrative overhead and can slow down delivery times.
Because of these changes, those planning UK import operations must build in buffer time for documentation, but at Trans Global Logistics UK Limited, we handle customs clearance for our clients to make the process smooth and stress-free VAT, Duties & Compliance Costs Impacting UK Import One of the most direct effects is that UK import of vehicles now regularly incurs VAT (20 %) and, in some cases, customs duty. The precise rates depend on the vehicle’s origin, classification, and trade agreements in force at the time. These costs make the total landed price for UK import vehicles less predictable than before. Trade Pressures: Steel Tariffs & Protectionism A recent development highlights how trade dynamics beyond just cars are reshaping the business environment. According to a recent iNews analysis, the UK is unlikely to secure a full carve-out from new steel tariffs being imposed by the European Union. The EU is planning to double its standard tariff on steel imports (from 25 % to 50 %) and reduce the quota of tariff-free steel imports, tightening access for many suppliers.
Why does that matter for car shipping?
 Supply chain costs: Many parts in vehicle manufacturing or refurbishment rely on steel inputs. If steel becomes more expensive in EU markets (or subject to quotas), the cost of parts, bodywork, or repairs may rise. That can indirectly affect the price structure for UK import operations.
 Reciprocal pressures: The inability to secure preferential access for British steel means that the UK is exposed to protectionist responses and trade friction from the EU. This creates a more volatile environment for exports and imports alike.
 Negotiation leverage: The UK government is reportedly pushing for quota-based exemptions rather than full tariff waivers, which suggests continued negotiation and uncertainty for affected sectors. In fact, more recently, the EU has agreed to restore certain quotas for UK steel
exports to EU markets, allowing up to 27,000 tonnes of steel per quarter to enter tariff-free. But long-term stability remains uncertain.
This development underscores a broader point: Brexit has made UK import of vehicles more exposed to macro trade policies and global supply chains. It’s no longer just about customs forms — it’s about tariffs, quotas, and trade diplomacy.
Impact on UK Exports & Reciprocal Effects
While much of the focus is on imports, Brexit also changed how the UK exports vehicles. For firms shipping cars out of the UK:
 They must manage foreign customs regimes in non-EU markets, without the previous protections of EU trade agreements.
 Delays or trade retaliation in export destinations can create ripple effects upstream, affecting UK import schedules (e.g. parts coming in to repair or prep vehicles for export).
 Trade tensions (such as those over steel or industrial goods) can hinder bilateral trust and increase scrutiny on cross-border vehicle shipping.
As such, the health of UK export markets has a feedback loop into the efficiency and viability of UK import operations.
At Trans Global Logistics UK Limited, we understand how Brexit has fundamentally reshaped vehicle import and export. For businesses and individuals involved in car shipping, navigating the evolving challenges of UK import is essential. With new customs regulations, tariff pressures such as looming steel levies, and ongoing trade uncertainties, we ensure our clients stay informed, compliant, and confident throughout the shipping process. Trans Global Logistics UK Limited, International Shipping & Logistics Company with 30 years of experience, will be able to offers several services for your Yacht and Boat Transport / Customs Clearance / Import and UK Vehicle Registration to confidently support your shipment in either Import or Export for any type of equipment. Contact us at Trans Global Logistics UK Limited – bizdev@tglog.co.uk – phone 07833 410 281 www.tglog.co.uk