Importing a secondhand commercial from Northern Ireland...

Hi there.

I'm looking at purchasing a commercial pick up from a private seller in Northern Ireland. It's plus VAT and as I am not VAT-registered I will need to pay this when purchasing.

To import it properly is there any documentation I will need alongside the V5 booklet and proof of its current MOT? As it's not being sold by a dealership is there a specific way I need to provide proof of purchase when I attend for VRT registration?

Many thanks

Stephen (Dublin )

Oct 2025 Filed under: importing

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Expert answer

Hi Stephen,

As it's a private sale, there's no defined way to provide proof of purchase, so type up a detailed document adding in all the details of the vehicle, plus the names and addresses of the buyer (i.e. you) and the seller, then both sign it and date it.

Also, assuming you're hoping to import it without paying Irish VAT and import duty, make sure you have proof that the pickup was not recently imported into the North from England, Scotland or Wales.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor