Import check
An import check reveals whether a vehicle has been imported from another country and registered in the UK. This check helps buyers understand the vehicle's origin, verify its compliance with UK standards, and assess potential implications for value, insurance, and maintenance.
Why this matters
Imported vehicles may have different specifications, maintenance requirements, or compliance standards than UK-market vehicles. Some imported vehicles may be grey imports, which can affect insurance costs, parts availability, and resale value. Understanding a vehicle's import status helps buyers make informed decisions and avoid unexpected issues.
What can happen if you skip it
- You may face higher insurance costs for imported vehicles
- You may have difficulty sourcing parts or finding mechanics familiar with the vehicle
- The vehicle may have different specifications than UK-market versions
- You may pay more than the vehicle is worth if it's a grey import
- You may face complications when selling the vehicle later
What to look for before buying
- Run a vehicle history check to identify if the vehicle is imported
- Check the country of origin and import date
- Verify the vehicle meets UK compliance standards
- Check insurance costs and availability for imported vehicles
- Research parts availability and maintenance requirements
- Consider the impact on resale value
How a vehicle history check helps
A vehicle history check provides official records showing whether a vehicle has been imported, the country of origin, and import date. This helps buyers understand the vehicle's origin, verify compliance with UK standards, and assess potential implications. The check also reveals related information, such as registration history, that may provide additional context.
What a Carpeep vehicle history check can show
- Theft and recovery status, including whether the vehicle has been reported stolen
- Write-off category (Cat S, Cat N, Cat A, Cat B, Cat C, Cat D) and date of write-off
- Outstanding finance agreements, including provider name, agreement type, and start date
- Mileage inconsistencies and potential odometer rollbacks, automatically flagged
- Keeper changes and number of previous owners
- MOT history timeline, including all test dates, pass/fail results, advisories, and recorded mileage at each test
- Vehicle identity verification
Related guides
Learn more about imported vehicles: What does imported vehicle mean? and What does grey import mean?
Frequently asked questions
How can I check if a car is imported?
You can check if a car is imported by running a vehicle history check using the vehicle's registration number. The check will show whether the vehicle has been imported, the country of origin, and import date. This information comes from official DVLA records.
Is it safe to buy an imported vehicle?
It depends on the vehicle and its origin. Legitimate imports that meet UK standards can be safe to buy, but you should verify compliance, check insurance costs, and research parts availability. Grey imports may have higher insurance costs and lower resale values.
What is a grey import?
A grey import is a vehicle imported from another country that was not originally intended for the UK market. Grey imports may have different specifications, may not meet UK standards, and can have higher insurance costs and lower resale values than UK-market vehicles.
Will insurance cost more for an imported vehicle?
Insurance costs may be higher for imported vehicles, especially grey imports, as insurers consider them higher risk. Some insurers may refuse to provide cover for certain imported vehicles. You should check insurance costs and availability before purchasing an imported vehicle.
Can I get parts for an imported vehicle?
Parts availability depends on the vehicle and its origin. Some imported vehicles may have limited parts availability in the UK, which can increase maintenance costs and repair times. You should research parts availability before purchasing an imported vehicle.
Do imported vehicles have lower resale values?
Imported vehicles, especially grey imports, may have lower resale values than UK-market vehicles. This is due to factors such as higher insurance costs, limited parts availability, and buyer preferences. You should consider the impact on resale value before purchasing.