Ireland used car market


Time and again with their models, Japanese auto manufacturers have proved that they are better than other makers. The main focus of Japanese automakers is always towards customer’s satisfaction. Not only new vehicles, even used automobile sector of the country is famous among masses across the world. People are willing to buy a used vehicle as even though the vehicle is used, but still its overall condition is excellent and they are available at practical prices. These vehicles are popular for less engine trouble and their superb quality. The used car market of Japan has always been bigger and is growing at a much faster pace. Almost all countries across the world import used vehicles from Japan.


Ireland, an island in the northwest Europe in the North Atlantic Ocean also imports used Japanese vehicles. With the advancement in technology, importing a vehicle from Japan is not a difficult process. Importers just have to follow the regulations to clear customs smoothly. In Ireland, right hand drive vehicles are allowed as driving is done on the left-hand side of the road. If the used vehicle entering in Ireland is 4 years old or more, then it should go through the National Car Test (NCT). This applies even if the vehicle has previously received any test abroad. Out of all brands, Toyota is ruling the streets of Ireland with Vitz, Passo, Corolla being some of the popular models. Along with Toyota, other popular brands in the country are Nissan and Honda.

On looking at the statistics it is quite clear that the demand for used vehicles is increasing continuously in the country. In the year 2012, only 185 units of used vehicles were imported in the country, which rises to 1,656 units in 2014. The increasing demand of vehicles reflects increase in the spending by the middle class that is growing rapidly. This in turns reflect that the economy of the country is growing and it surely offers a lucrative market for exporters.

Statistics:-
Population-4.813 million
Used vehicles imported statistics for last 5 years:

2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
1656 545 185 271 907

Import rules and regulations-
Japanese automobile industry is a renowned auto industry. The country’s automobile sector started from the very beginning to reach the present place. Popularity of Japanese vehicles is not confined only to Japan. Almost all countries across the world import vehicles from Japan. There is no fixed trend; all vehicles such as cars, vans, trucks, buses are sold from Japan. While importing, it is important for the importer to be aware of all the import regulations to make the procedure smooth and trouble free.

Right-Hand Drive vehicles:-
The country permits importation of only right-hand drive vehicles.

Restriction:-
If the used vehicle entering in Ireland is 4 years old or more, then it should go through the National Car Test (NCT). This applies even if the vehicle has previously received any test abroad.

Returning Residents:-
People who have owned their vehicle abroad for at least six months and are moving to Ireland permanently may also be exempt from paying VRT. This is referred to as "transfer of residence". The vehicle still has to be registered with the Revenue Commissioners. In such a case, the importer is not allowed to sell the vehicle in Ireland for at least 12 months after it has been registered.

Required Documents:-
  • Original Certificate of Title and Registration
  • Original Commercial/Purchase Invoice –must show proof of paying tax on the vehicle
  • Irish Customs form 1076
  • Original vehicle document stating owner’s name, engine & chassis numbers

When importing a vehicle to Ireland, the importer should show the proof of ownership of the vehicle. Used vehicle importer should complete a Declaration for Registration (Form VRT 4). If the imported vehicle is a motorcycle, then the importer should complete a Declaration for Registration (Form VRT 5).

Import Tax Rate:-
  • Shipping: 700-900 Euros depending upon the size of the vehicle.
  • Customs: 10% of purchase cost of the vehicle and shipping.
  • VAT- 21% of purchase and shipping.
  • Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) is based on the Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) of the vehicle.

Shipping Information:-

Freight rate-
0-14 m3 – US $ 119
14-20 m3- US $ 134
Major port- Dublin


Popular car models:-
Toyota Vitz, Nissan March, Honda Fit, Toyota Passo, Toyota Corolla Spacio, Honda Stream, Toyota Prius, Nissan Silvia, Toyota Sienta, Honda Insight



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