Looking at importing a panel van from the North...

Hi,

I'm looking at buying a Mercedes Sprinter panel van from Northern Irelan.  I've been told it's a flat rate of €200 for VRT in the South for one of these but that doesn't look like that in your article unless I'm confused. Could you please clarify?

Also do you know exactly what documents are needed if it's coming from a company? They are a servicing company for a supermarket so I'm not sure if they would have access to official import customs information regarding me avoiding paying additional VAT.

The van has been registered in the north since 2018 and never returned to England since.

Thanks

Claire

Apr 2025 Filed under: importing

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Expert answer

Hi Claire,

For some vans the VRT is 13.3 per cent of the Open Market Selling Price, but for larger vans such as the Sprinter it should be the flat €200 rate.

As for the paperwork, ideally, you'd have the customs declaration paperwork for when the van entered Northern Ireland, but if that is not available then the vehicle registration certificate (V5C) showing previous owners and the van's MOT history should be sufficient to prove its use in the North since 2018. Get as much information and paperwork as possible from the seller.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor