Everything You Need to Know About Importing a Classic Car

It is a fact that many classic cars have were produced in Europe and the USA. The first hurdle most people face when planning to buy a classic foreign car is finding the money to do so. If you have the money, the next hurdle you will face is importing the car into Australia. Unfortunately, you cannot have the car loaded onto a boat and then unloaded so you can drive away, without first dealing with the paperwork and paying taxes required to bring the car onto Australian roads legally. Below is a guide to everything you need to know about importing foreign cars.

The import duty

The amount of import tax you need to pay will depend on the value of your car. If your classic car is valued to be worth over $65,094, you will be liable to pay at luxury vehicle tax which amounts to 33 per cent of the value of the auto. As you are importing a classic foreign car, it is highly likely you will fall into this group. However, if you have managed to secure a bargain which is valued at less than the $65,094 threshold, you will pay a reduce import tax rate depending on the age of the car.

The customs inspection

When the car arrives at an Australian port, it is likely to be inspected by customs officers. These officers are looking for two things. Firstly, they will want to make sure that the classic auto does not contain any contraband such as weapons or drugs. In the past, weapons dealers and drug smugglers have been known to conceal items in the door panels of an auto in an attempt to fool customs. Secondly, the customs agents will also be checking that the car does not contain any pests or animals which could pose a threat to native species. 

The roadworthy certificate

Once you have paid the tax owing on the car and customs officers have checked it, the final hurdle will be to get a certificate of roadworthiness. Many classic cars were constructed at a time when road safety rules were much more relaxed, which means they may not be fitted with seat belts or have halogen bulb headlights. You should pay a visit to your automotive garage and ask a mechanic to inspect your classic car, so it meets current safety laws. The mechanic will then issue an official roadworthy certificate.


Share