Car Shipping to the Philippines from the UK: The Complete Guide

Quick answer: Shipping a car from the UK to the Philippines takes 4–6 weeks at sea, with customs clearance at Manila’s One Stop Shop Processing Centre (OSPC) taking approximately 48 hours once documents are in order. RoRo and container shipping are both available from Southampton; RoRo starts from approximately £1,395 for a standard saloon. However, the Philippines bans the permanent import of right-hand drive vehicles under Republic Act 8506 — and almost all UK-registered cars are right-hand drive. Permanent importation is only available under the No-Dollar Importation (NDI) scheme for qualifying returning Filipino nationals and certain visa holders, who must import a left-hand drive vehicle. Read the eligibility section first before making any purchase or booking decision.

Can I Ship My UK Car to the Philippines? The LHD Rule and Who Qualifies

This is the most important section in this guide. Please read it carefully before purchasing a vehicle or booking shipment.

The right-hand drive ban: Republic Act 8506

The Philippines drives on the right-hand side of the road. Under Republic Act No. 8506, the permanent import of right-hand drive vehicles is prohibited, and importing one is classified as a criminal offence. Since the United Kingdom drives on the left, almost all UK-registered vehicles are right-hand drive and are therefore ineligible for permanent import to the Philippines.

This means:

• You cannot permanently import your UK family car to the Philippines
• You cannot purchase a standard UK-specification vehicle and ship it to Manila
• Only left-hand drive vehicles — typically sourced from continental Europe, North America, or Japan — may be permanently imported

Who can permanently import a vehicle? The NDI scheme

Permanent vehicle importation by private individuals is governed by Executive Order 156 (as amended by EO 877-A) and administered through the No-Dollar Importation (NDI) scheme. Under this scheme, qualifying individuals may import one left-hand drive used vehicle per family, without foreign currency remittance through the Philippine banking system, subject to normal taxes and duties.

Eligible categories under the NDI scheme:

Source: DTI Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (fairtrade.dti.gov.ph), last modified January 2026

One vehicle per family: The NDI scheme allows only one vehicle per family unit (defined as the husband, wife, and unemancipated minor children). The scheme may only be used once.

Summary of eligibility requirements

To permanently import a vehicle to the Philippines from the UK, you must:

1. Be personally eligible under one of the NDI categories above
2. Import a left-hand drive (LHD) vehicle — not a standard UK right-hand drive vehicle
3. Have the vehicle registered in your name for at least 6 months before the CAI application
4. The vehicle’s gross weight must not exceed 3,000 kg
5. Obtain a Certificate of Authority to Import (CAI) from the DTI FTEB before the vehicle arrives
6. Not have previously used the NDI scheme (one vehicle per family, once only)

Verify current requirements: The NDI scheme’s eligibility conditions, document requirements, and vehicle criteria are administered by the DTI Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB). Requirements are subject to change. Confirm current eligibility criteria with the DTI FTEB via fairtrade.dti.gov.ph or by contacting FTEB directly at (02) 7215 1165 / fteb@dti.gov.ph before making any purchase or booking. This guide does not constitute legal advice.

Shipping Methods: RoRo and Container

Both RoRo and container shipping are available on the UK to Philippines route.

RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)

RoRo is the most cost-effective method and the most commonly chosen for a single standard vehicle that is in running condition.

For more detail on RoRo shipping, see ShipCars’ RoRo car shipping service page.

Container shipping (shared or dedicated)

Container shipping is available for larger vehicles, non-running vehicles, classic or luxury cars, and shipments where personal effects are included.

For more detail on container options, see ShipCars’ container car shipping service page.

Comparison table

UK Departure Port and Manila Arrival Port

UK departure port

Sailings to the Philippines depart from Southampton. ShipCars arranges collection from anywhere on the UK mainland.

Philippines arrival port

Vehicles arrive at the Port of Manila — South Harbor. Customs clearance is handled at the One Stop Shop Processing Centre (OSPC) at Manila, which processes import entries and aims to complete clearance within approximately 48 hours once all documentation is in order.

Your Karachi-based ShipCars shipment documentation will confirm the exact terminal and your NDI-appointed clearing agent will handle the OSPC filing.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car from the UK to the Philippines?

Total cost divides into UK sea freight (ShipCars) and Philippines in-country costs (customs duty, excise tax, VAT, port handling, and clearing agent fees).

Sea freight costs (ShipCars)

Price note: These are indicative starting prices. Confirm current pricing at the time of booking — rates are subject to fuel surcharges and shipping line movements. Get a current quote.

Marine insurance (ShipCars — selected at booking)

Philippines in-country costs (payable in the Philippines)

For a full overview of shipping costs across all destinations, see our international car shipping costs guide.

Philippines Vehicle Import Taxes: Customs Duty, Excise Tax, and VAT

Customs duty: 30% on CIF value (UK-origin vehicles)

The Philippines levies customs duties on imported vehicles based on the origin country and any applicable free trade agreements. The UK is a WTO member with no Philippines free trade agreement, so the standard MFN (Most Favoured Nation) rate applies: 30% of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value for passenger cars with up to 9 seats.

Source: Visor.ph customs duty overview; confirmed via BOC general tariff schedule. Verify current rate at the time of importation — tariff rates are subject to change.

Note on valuation: The Bureau of Customs (BOC) appraises vehicles using its own reference values (informally referred to as the “Red Book”) rather than solely the declared purchase price. The appraised CIF value — not the invoice price — forms the basis for duty calculation. This is an important consideration when estimating total import costs.

Excise tax: 4%–50% based on vehicle value

The Philippines’ TRAIN Law (Republic Act 10963) reformed the automobile excise tax system. Rates are applied to the vehicle’s net price or landed cost:

Source: Republic Act 10963 (TRAIN Law); respicio.ph commentary on vehicle import taxes.

VAT: 12% on landed cost plus excise tax

12% VAT is applied to the vehicle’s landed cost (CIF + customs duty) plus the excise tax. As with Pakistan, VAT is calculated on the duty-inclusive base, compounding the effective rate.

Pure electric vehicles (BEV): 0% customs duty to 2028

Pure electric vehicles qualify for 0% customs duty under Executive Order No. 12 (series of 2023), extended through 2028. EVs are still subject to excise tax and VAT. See the EV section for full details.

Illustrative worked example (indicative only)

Using a hypothetical LHD vehicle with a CIF value of PHP 1,800,000 (approximately £26,000 at indicative exchange rates):

Important: This is an illustrative example using approximate published rates. The BOC may appraise the vehicle at a different value than declared. The excise tax bracket applied depends on the BOC’s assessed value. Confirm actual duty liability for your specific vehicle with a licensed Philippine customs broker and the Bureau of Customs (customs.gov.ph) before booking. This guide does not constitute financial advice.

No-Dollar Importation (NDI) Scheme and the Certificate of Authority to Import (CAI)

The NDI scheme is the principal legal pathway for private individuals to permanently import a used vehicle to the Philippines. Without a valid CAI issued under the NDI scheme, the vehicle cannot legally clear customs. Vehicles without a CAI, or with misdeclared details, may be seized under Section 1113 of the Customs Modernisation and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Which government body issues the CAI?

The DTI Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) issues the Certificate of Authority to Import. Applications are filed online through the DTI iREGIS portal. The CAI is distinct from any BOC import declaration — both are required.

Note on source page conflict: The ShipCars source page states the CAI is issued by the “Bureau of Import Services (BIS).” The DTI FTEB’s own website (last modified January 2026) names the DTI Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) as the issuing body. This guide uses the FTEB as the authoritative source. Verify the current issuing authority with DTI directly if there is any uncertainty: fairtrade.dti.gov.ph.

The CAI application process

1. Apply through the DTI iREGIS portal before the vehicle sails or arrives in the Philippines — not after
2. Submit the required documents (see below)
3. Appear in person at the FTEB before the vehicle is released from customs
4. After importation, apply for a Release Certificate through iREGIS — required before the vehicle can be registered with LTO

Documents required for the CAI (from the DTI FTEB)

The Certificate of Roadworthiness and Emission Compliance (CREC / CEC)

The DTI FTEB requires a Certificate of Roadworthiness and Emission Compliance (referred to as CREC or CEC) from the country of origin. For a vehicle sourced in the UK:

• The certificate must be authenticated or apostilled as applicable before the vehicle sails
• Obtain this before booking shipment — the Philippines does not accept certificates obtained after the vehicle has left the UK

Practical note: The UK no longer participates in EU apostille conventions since Brexit, but as a party to the Hague Apostille Convention, UK public documents can still be apostilled. Confirm authentication requirements with the DTI FTEB and the Philippines Embassy in London before the vehicle leaves the UK.

The three-year resale restriction

Vehicles imported under the NDI scheme may not be resold for at least 3 years from the date of importation. Breach of this condition is an offence under the programme’s terms.

What Documents Do I Need to Ship a Car from the UK to the Philippines?

UK export documents (before shipment — ShipCars handles the UK export declaration)

Philippines import documents (via your Manila clearing agent and DTI FTEB)

Can I Ship an Electric Vehicle to the Philippines? {#ev}

Yes — pure electric vehicles (BEV) currently benefit from 0% customs duty under Executive Order No. 12 (series of 2023), extended through 2028. This makes EVs particularly cost-competitive for importation compared to petrol or diesel vehicles.

Important notes:

• The 0% customs duty applies to pure battery electric vehicles (BEV); plug-in hybrids and standard hybrids are typically assessed at standard duty rates — confirm with a Philippine customs broker
• EVs are still subject to excise tax (based on vehicle value under the TRAIN Law brackets above) and 12% VAT
• EVs must still comply with all NDI scheme eligibility requirements — LHD only, CAI required, eligibility criteria met
• Electric vehicles must travel in a dedicated container, with the battery charged to below approximately 40–50% at loading; an EV hazard surcharge of approximately £295 applies
• Confirm current EV import duty status at the time of booking — Executive Orders can be revised

EV charging infrastructure: The Philippines is building out public EV charging infrastructure in Manila and major urban areas. Confirm the availability of the relevant charging standard for your vehicle before shipping. European AC charging (Type 2) may not be universally available — adaptors or home charger installation may be needed.

Can I Include Personal Effects in My Container? {#personal-effects}

Personal effects may only be included in a dedicated (sole-use) container — not in a shared container or on a RoRo vessel. All personal effects must:

• Be declared on the packing list
• Comply with Philippines Customs import regulations
• Not include prohibited items — hazardous materials, firearms (without proper authorisation), counterfeit goods, or items prohibited under Philippine law
• Be subject to separate taxes and duties as personal effects — the vehicle’s import duty and NDI scheme exemptions do not cover personal belongings in the container

Arrange separate contents insurance for any high-value personal effects — the vehicle’s marine insurance policy does not cover non-vehicle items.

LTO Registration After Customs Clearance

After the vehicle clears BOC customs, it must be registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) before it can be driven on Philippine roads. LTO registration requires:

The MVIR requires a physical inspection of the vehicle at an LTO inspection centre. Your Manila clearing agent can advise on the LTO registration process and any additional fees payable.

Marine Insurance for Car Shipping to the Philippines

Standard marine insurance is available through ShipCars for both RoRo and container shipments.

What the marine insurance covers and does not cover

Important: The declared value used for insurance must be consistent with the value declared to the Bureau of Customs. Mismatches can cause complications at BOC appraisal.

Step-by-Step: The Complete Process from Booking to Driving in the Philippines

Step 1 — Confirm personal eligibility and vehicle eligibility before purchasing

Before buying a vehicle for Philippines import: confirm your NDI scheme category (returning resident, 13A/13G, dual citizen, etc.), confirm you have not previously used the NDI scheme, confirm the vehicle is left-hand drive, confirm its gross weight is under 3,000 kg, and confirm the six-months’ registration requirement can be met. Consult a licensed Philippine customs lawyer or the DTI FTEB if uncertain.

Step 2 — Obtain the Certificate of Roadworthiness and Emission Compliance (CREC/CEC) in the UK

Before the vehicle leaves the UK, obtain a CREC/CEC. This document must be apostilled or authenticated for use in the Philippines. Confirm authentication requirements with the Philippine Embassy in London and the DTI FTEB before booking. This step cannot be done retrospectively after the vehicle leaves the UK.

Step 3 — Apply for the Certificate of Authority to Import (CAI) via DTI iREGIS

Apply online through the DTI iREGIS portal. Submit all required documents including vehicle registration, proof of eligibility, CREC/CEC, and the notarised Affidavit of Undertaking. The CAI should be in progress or obtained before the vehicle is shipped — not applied for after arrival.

Step 4 — Prepare UK export documentation and the vehicle

Gather the original V5C (notify DVLA of permanent export). Prepare the purchase invoice, proof of address, and passport copy. Photograph all existing damage with dates. Reduce fuel to a minimal level (less than a quarter tank).

Step 5 — Book shipment with ShipCars

Choose RoRo (running vehicle, standard LHD car) or container (non-running, luxury, classic, or with personal effects). ShipCars arranges UK collection, condition report, UK export declaration, and issues the Bill of Lading. Weekly sailings from Southampton.

Step 6 — Sea transit — 4 to 6 weeks

Your vehicle travels from Southampton to Manila South Harbor. Weekly sailings; transit 4–6 weeks.

Step 7 — Manila customs clearance at OSPC — approximately 48 hours

Your Manila clearing agent files the Goods Declaration at the BOC’s OSPC. BOC appraises the vehicle and assesses customs duty (30% of BOC-assessed CIF value for UK vehicles), excise tax, and 12% VAT. The importer must appear in person at the DTI FTEB before the vehicle is released from customs. Clearance takes approximately 48 hours once all documentation is in order.

Step 8 — LTO registration and driving

After BOC clearance, the clearing agent helps obtain the CAI Release Certificate from DTI FTEB via iREGIS. LTO registration follows: MVIR inspection, proof of Philippine motor insurance, and payment of LTO registration fees.

Total timeline: approximately 6–10 weeks from UK booking to vehicle on Philippine roads, depending on CAI processing time, sea transit, and LTO registration.

Pre-Shipment Checklist Before Your Car Sails to the Philippines

• Personal eligibility confirmed under NDI scheme category (returning resident ≥1 year abroad / 13A / 13G / dual citizen / SRRV / 47A2)
• Family scheme history confirmed — NDI has not previously been used by the family unit
• Vehicle confirmed as left-hand drive (LHD) — RHD vehicles are prohibited under RA 8506
• Vehicle gross weight confirmed under 3,000 kg
• Vehicle registered in importer’s name for at least 6 months before CAI application
• CAI application filed or in progress via DTI iREGIS portal (DTI FTEB)
• CREC/CEC obtained and apostilled/authenticated in the UK — before vehicle leaves
• Philippine Embassy in London contacted re: document authentication requirements
• Manila clearing agent / customs broker engaged before vehicle sails
• V5C logbook ready; DVLA permanent export notification completed; copy retained
• Purchase invoice / bill of sale — declared value consistent with insurance and BOC declared value
• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement, under 3 months old)
• Passport photo page copy; relevant visa stamps / eligibility documents available
• ShipCars booking form completed; shipping method confirmed (RoRo or container)
• All existing damage photographed with dates
• Marine insurance selected — Total Loss (1%) or Comprehensive (1.5%, recommended; condition report required)
• Vehicle condition report arranged (free on ShipCars collection; £35 on self-delivery)
• Fuel reduced to less than a quarter tank
• EV? — dedicated container confirmed; battery below 40–50%; ~£295 hazard surcharge confirmed; 0% customs duty EO No. 12 status confirmed at time of booking
• Personal effects in container? — declared packing list prepared; separate contents insurance arranged; Philippine Customs compliance confirmed

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Shipping to the Philippines {#faq}

Can I ship my UK right-hand drive car to the Philippines?

No. The Philippines prohibits the permanent import of right-hand drive vehicles under Republic Act No. 8506, and importing one is a criminal offence. Almost all UK-registered vehicles are right-hand drive. Only left-hand drive vehicles may be permanently imported. If you are shipping a vehicle to the Philippines, it must be LHD — typically sourced from continental Europe, North America, or Japan.

Who can permanently import a car to the Philippines?

Only individuals who qualify under the No-Dollar Importation (NDI) scheme: returning Filipino residents who lived abroad for at least 1 year (accumulated over the last 3 years), 13(a) and 13(g) immigrant visa holders, dual citizens, SRRV holders, and 47(a)(2) visa holders under the Balik-Scientist Programme. The scheme allows one vehicle per family and can only be used once.

How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to the Philippines?

RoRo shipping starts from approximately £1,395 for a standard saloon (indicative). Container shipping costs more. In-country Philippine taxes are separate: customs duty is 30% of the BOC-assessed CIF value (for UK-origin vehicles), plus excise tax (4–50% based on vehicle value), plus 12% VAT on the landed cost plus excise. Get a current quote.

How long does it take to ship a car from the UK to the Philippines?

Sea transit from Southampton to Manila South Harbor is 4–6 weeks. BOC customs clearance at the OSPC takes approximately 48 hours once all documentation is in order. LTO registration follows customs clearance. Total time from UK booking to vehicle on the road is approximately 6–10 weeks, depending on CAI processing and LTO registration time.

What is the Certificate of Authority to Import (CAI)?

The CAI is a mandatory permit issued by the DTI Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) via the iREGIS portal. Without a CAI, a vehicle cannot legally clear Philippines customs. It is specific to the NDI scheme and is only available to qualifying individuals. Apply before the vehicle arrives in the Philippines.

What taxes do I pay when importing a car to the Philippines?

Three main taxes apply: (1) customs duty at 30% of the BOC-assessed CIF value (for UK-origin vehicles); (2) excise tax at 4–50% of the vehicle’s landed cost (based on value brackets under the TRAIN Law); and (3) 12% VAT on the landed cost plus excise tax. The combined effective burden varies significantly by vehicle value. Confirm exact liability with a licensed Philippine customs broker.

What does No-Dollar Importation mean?

No-Dollar Importation (NDI) means the vehicle is imported without foreign currency remittance through the Philippine banking system — the importer transfers the vehicle from their own possession abroad rather than purchasing it with Philippine-remitted foreign exchange. Taxes and duties are still payable in the Philippines. The scheme is sometimes called “Non-Diplomatic Importation” in older documents — both terms refer to the same programme.

Is there a vehicle age limit for importing a car to the Philippines?

The DTI FTEB’s NDI documentation (last modified January 2026) does not state a specific vehicle age limit for the NDI scheme. However, vehicles must comply with the Philippines’ emissions standards and a Certificate of Roadworthiness and Emission Compliance (CREC/CEC) is required. The BOC may also apply age-based valuation adjustments. Confirm any age restrictions with the DTI FTEB and BOC before purchasing a vehicle for Philippines import, as the source page for this route shows conflicting information (5 years in the body vs. 10 years in the FAQ) — neither figure is verifiable from DTI FTEB’s own published guidance as of October 2026.

Can I ship an electric vehicle to the Philippines?

Yes. Pure electric vehicles (BEV) currently benefit from 0% customs duty under Executive Order No. 12 (extended through 2028), making EVs comparatively more cost-effective to import than petrol or diesel vehicles. EVs are still subject to excise tax and 12% VAT. All NDI scheme eligibility requirements still apply, including the LHD rule.

Published: 22 October 2026  |  Last updated: 22 October 2026  |  Reviewed by: Navdeep Singh, Director, ShipCars Ltd