VRT calculator

[galway_blow_in]

just checked out the cost of importing a ford focus from northern ireland and the VRT cost is astronomical , more than a third of the cost of the car , i know that revenue works out the cost based on the book value of cars down here and that cars in the south have a higher book value but is there any way of arguing your case in favour of a lower valuation , even with the weak pound , it really doesnt look like its worth it to buy in northern ireland

 

[Leo]

You can appeal their valuation, you'll have to provide evidence of cars of the same spec and condition being on sale in this jurisdiction for less then their book value.

Arguments like a weak pound, or valuations in the UK will get you nowhere. The VRT on imports is a means of recouping lost excise and VAT proceeds on the car when new.

 

[mathepac]

Are you buying new or used? Has the car completed the 6,000 mile qualification for 2nd-hand valuation? Is it a specialist or high-spec car ST, 4WD or performance vehicle? Ford did limited numbers of these and they can have a high VRT rating.