Car Shipping To Cyprus

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Car Shipping to Cyprus: Your Comprehensive Guide

Planning to ship your vehicle to Cyprus? Whether you’re moving permanently, temporarily importing, or transferring residence, navigating the process can seem complex. This guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information to ensure a smooth and efficient car shipping experience to Cyprus from the UK.

Shipping Methods

We offer a range of shipping options to suit your needs when sending your vehicle to Cyprus:

1. RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping

• How it works: Your vehicle is driven onto a specialized vessel and secured for transit. This is a cost-effective method for shipping operational vehicles.

• Vehicle Condition: The vehicle must be in fully operational condition and able to be driven onto the ship.

• Restrictions:

  • No personal belongings or other goods are permitted inside the vehicle during shipping.

  • Hybrid vehicles are not allowed on RoRo services. Electric vehicles are also not permitted on RoRo services.

• Learn More: For more details on this service, please visit our RoRo Shipping page.

2. Dedicated Container Shipping

• How it works: Your vehicle is loaded into its own exclusive shipping container, offering maximum security and protection.

• Vehicle Condition: The vehicle does not need to be in working order for container shipping.

• Flexibility:

  • Both hybrid and electric vehicles can be shipped via container. Electric vehicles typically incur a hazard surcharge of £295 due to battery regulations.

  • Personal belongings can be loaded into the container alongside your vehicle, subject to customs regulations.

  • There is a £100 surcharge for loading a vehicle into a dedicated container.

• Learn More: Discover more about our container shipping options on our Container Shipping page.

3. Shared Container Shipping

• How it works: Your vehicle shares a container with other vehicles, making it a more economical option than a dedicated container, while still offering more security than RoRo.

• Vehicle Condition: The vehicle does not need to be in working order for shared container shipping.

• Flexibility:

  • Similar to dedicated containers, hybrid and electric vehicles can be shipped. Electric vehicles typically incur a hazard surcharge of £295.

  • Loading a vehicle with goods into a shared container also incurs a £100 surcharge.

  • Shipping personal belongings outside your vehicle in a shared container is generally not permitted due to space limitations and customs regulations.

Destination Rules and Regulations in Cyprus

Understanding the rules for different types of import is crucial.

Permanent Export / Transfer of Residence

If you are permanently exporting your car or moving to Cyprus as part of a transfer of residence, specific regulations apply. As an EU member state, Cyprus has procedures for customs and taxation relief for those relocating.

• Authority Website: For the most up-to-date information on customs regulations, import procedures for permanent export, and transfer of residence, please refer to the Republic of Cyprus Customs and Excise Department:

  • Customs and Excise Department

Temporary Import

Temporary import allows you to bring your vehicle into Cyprus for a limited period without paying full import duties and taxes, provided certain conditions are met. This is typically for tourism or specific events.

• Duration: The rules for temporary importation can vary, but generally, non-EU registered vehicles can be temporarily imported for a set period (e.g., up to 6 months within a 12-month period) without duties, under specific declarations.

• Requirements: The vehicle must be registered outside Cyprus and owned by you or a family member. You will need to provide proof of ownership, registration, and potentially a tourist visa or proof of temporary stay.

Required Documentation

Accurate paperwork is essential for a smooth process.

Documentation Required in the UK

1. Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C): Proof of your vehicle’s registration in the UK.

2. Proof of Ownership: Bill of Sale or similar document if you have recently purchased the vehicle.

3. Identification: Passport or driving license.

4. Shipping Booking Confirmation: Details of your chosen shipping service.

5. Export Declaration: Required for all goods leaving the UK.

Documentation Required at the Destination Port (Cyprus)

The specific documents required will depend on your import status (permanent, temporary, or transfer of residence). Generally, you will need:

1. Bill of Lading: Issued by the shipping company.

2. Customs Declaration Form: To be completed for import into Cyprus.

3. Proof of Ownership: Original V5C and Bill of Sale.

4. Identification: Passport.

5. Transfer of Residence (ToR) Application: If you are moving permanently and wish to claim relief from duties and taxes, you must apply for this in advance with the Cyprus Customs and Excise Department.

6. Temporary Importation Declaration: For temporary imports.

7. Insurance Certificate: Proof of insurance valid in Cyprus.

8. Vehicle Technical Inspection Certificate: Depending on the age and type of vehicle, a certificate confirming compliance with safety and emissions standards may be required.

Ports of Arrival in Cyprus

We can ship your vehicle to the main port in Cyprus:

• Limassol

RoRo, Container, and Shared Container Shipping Rates and Schedule

When shipping to Cyprus, you have multiple options with varying costs and schedules.

RoRo Shipping Rates

• Small Car (e.g., Golf): £765 per vehicle.

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £995 per vehicle.

Shared Container Shipping Rates

• Small Car (e.g., Golf): £895 per vehicle.

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £995 per vehicle.

Dedicated Container Shipping Rates

• Rates for dedicated containers are typically higher than shared containers and depend on the size of the container and specific route. Please contact us for a personalised quote.

Transit Time and Frequency

• Estimated Transit Time: Around 18 days, depending on the shipping method and vessel schedule.

• Frequency: Vessels typically depart weekly from major UK ports, ensuring regular shipping opportunities for all service types.

Inspections, Permits, and Fees

Inspections

• Pre-shipment Inspection: While not always mandatory, a condition report is highly recommended, especially for comprehensive insurance. This report documents the vehicle’s condition before shipping.

  • Cost: Free if we collect your vehicle. £35 if you deliver the vehicle to us.

• Destination Port Inspections: Cyprus Customs may conduct inspections to verify the vehicle’s details and compliance with regulations.

Permits

• MOT Certificate: For vehicles being collected on trade plates by a driver, a valid UK MOT certificate is required.

• International Driving Permit (IDP): While not always mandatory for car shipping itself, an IDP may be required for driving in Cyprus, depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Check with the relevant Cypriot authorities or your embassy.

• Transfer of Residence (ToR) Approval: If you are relocating permanently, you must obtain approval for ToR relief from the Cyprus Customs and Excise Department before importing your vehicle.

Duty, Tax, and Costs

The cost of shipping your vehicle to Cyprus is influenced by several factors, including duties and taxes.

Duty and Tax

• Transfer of Residence (ToR) Relief: If you are moving permanently to Cyprus and meet the eligibility criteria, you can benefit from relief from customs duties and VAT. To qualify, you typically need to have owned and used the vehicle in the UK for at least six months prior to your relocation and demonstrate that you are establishing residency in Cyprus. You must apply for and obtain approval for ToR relief before importing your vehicle.

• Temporary Import: For temporary importation, duties and taxes are usually suspended, provided the vehicle is re-exported within the permitted timeframe.

• Standard Importation: If you are not eligible for ToR relief or temporary import, standard Cypriot import duties and VAT will apply. These are calculated based on the vehicle’s value, age, engine capacity, and environmental classification. Rates can vary significantly.

Cost Breakdown

The total cost of shipping your car to Cyprus includes several components:

• Shipping Fee: Based on the chosen method (RoRo, Shared Container, Dedicated Container), vehicle size, and destination port.

• Port Fees: Charges levied by both the UK and Cypriot ports for handling and berthing.

• Documentation Fees: Costs associated with preparing and processing shipping and customs paperwork.

• Insurance: Varies based on coverage level.

• Cleaning: Vehicles may need to be cleaned to meet quarantine standards.

• Customs Clearance: Fees for customs agents in Cyprus, if used.

• Collection/Delivery: If you opt for our collection service from your UK address.

• Loading Surcharge: A £100 surcharge applies for loading vehicles into containers (both shared and dedicated).

• Hazard Surcharge: Applicable for electric vehicles shipped via container (£295).

Please note: For a precise breakdown and consolidated pricing, please contact us for a detailed quote.

Vehicle Collection in the UK

We offer flexible collection options for your vehicle within the UK:

• Transporter: Your vehicle can be collected by our professional transporters and delivered to the port.

• Trade Plate Driver: If your vehicle is fully operational and has a valid MOT, it can be driven to the port by one of our experienced drivers using trade plates.

Insurance and Risk Coverage

We offer comprehensive insurance options to protect your vehicle during transit.

• Total Loss Cover (1% of vehicle value + shipping cost): Covers total loss due to fire or water damage.

• Comprehensive Cover (1.5% of vehicle value + shipping cost): Covers cosmetic damage in addition to total loss.

  • Eligibility: The vehicle must not be older than 10 years for this cover.

  • Condition Report: A condition report is mandatory for comprehensive cover. This is provided free of charge if we collect your vehicle. If you deliver the vehicle to us, a fee of £35 will apply for the condition report.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

To ensure a safe and compliant shipment, the following items are generally not allowed to be shipped within or alongside your vehicle to Cyprus:

• Personal Belongings/Goods:

  • RoRo: Strictly prohibited inside the vehicle.

  • Container Services (Shared & Dedicated): While personal effects can be included in dedicated containers, all items must be declared. Restrictions apply, and illegal, dangerous, or excessively valuable items should not be shipped. Shipping personal effects in shared containers is generally not permitted.

• Hazardous Materials: Flammable substances, explosives, corrosives, or any other hazardous materials are strictly prohibited.

• Perishable Goods: Food, plants, and other items that could spoil.

• Firearms and Ammunition: Unless properly declared and permitted by law.

• Illegal Substances: Drugs or other illicit items.

• Restricted Goods: Items that may infringe on local regulations or are subject to import restrictions.

Restrictions:

• Fuel: Vehicles must have a minimal amount of fuel (typically just enough to drive onto the ship or container).

• Batteries: For electric vehicles, specific regulations regarding battery state of charge may apply.

• Hybrid/Electric Vehicles on RoRo: Not permitted.

Preparing Your Car for Shipping

To ensure your vehicle arrives in the best possible condition, proper preparation is key. Please refer to our guides on preparing your car for shipping:

• How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping

• Prepare Your Car for Export

• How to Avoid Damage with International Shipping

Common Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

Understanding common pitfalls can help you avoid costly errors and delays. Learn more about the top mistakes people make during international car shipping:

• Top 10 Mistakes People Make During International Car Shipping

For a personalized quote and to discuss your specific shipping needs to Cyprus, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you with a seamless car shipping experience.

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