Can I change a car's value after it has been customs cleared?

Hi, I have imported five cars from Japan into Ireland.

For these cars, I was issued with two different invoices by the seller. One invoice showed higher values for all five cars, while a second invoice showed the correct purchase prices.

Unfortunately, due to my own mistake, I sent the higher-value invoice to my customs agent, and the cars were cleared through Customs using that incorrect invoice. The vehicles have now been released.

I now have the correct invoice, proof of bank transfer for the actual amounts paid, and auction hammer price documentation.

Is it possible to resubmit the correct documents and request a revaluation or refund of any overpaid customs charges based on the true purchase prices?

Umair Rasool (Ballinasloe)

Dec 2025 Filed under: importing

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Expert answer

Hi Umair,

We believe it is possible to request a post-clearance correction where an incorrect invoice was used for customs clearance, but it must be done through your customs agent and supported by strong documentary evidence.

You should act quickly, provide the correct invoice, proof of payment and auction hammer price, and submit a written explanation acknowledging the mistake.

Revenue may refund overpaid VAT and duty if satisfied the error was genuine but may also ask for further proof and may indeed refuse.

So go back to the customs agent immediately with all your documentation.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor