Vehicle Import (NOVA)
Notification of Vehicle Arrivals filed within HMRC's 14-day window. DVLA registration prepared in parallel.
Vehicle Import (NOVA) overview
NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrivals) is the HMRC notification you must file within 14 days of a vehicle arriving in the UK. Missing the window can result in penalties and delayed DVLA registration. There is no extension.
We match you with partners who file NOVA same-week and prepare your DVLA paperwork in parallel, so by the time NOVA is acknowledged your registration package is ready to submit.
The detail
- HMRC system
- NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrivals)
- Filing window
- 14 days from UK arrival, no extensions
- Required docs
- V5C equivalent from origin, purchase invoice, shipping documents, V55/5 for DVLA
- Then
- DVLA registration, IVA inspection if required, vehicle tax and MOT
- Duty position
- Calculated against vehicle value, age, and origin agreement
- Typical turnaround
- NOVA same week, DVLA registration 4 to 6 weeks
What the matched partner does
Your partner files NOVA, classifies the vehicle and calculates duty, prepares the V55/5 application for DVLA, and advises on IVA if required. They keep you on track for the 14-day window from day one.
Common questions
What if I miss the 14-day NOVA window?
HMRC may impose penalties, and DVLA cannot register the vehicle until NOVA is cleared. Speak to a partner immediately. There is no extension for late filing.
Will my vehicle need an IVA test?
Possibly, depending on age, origin, and modifications. Your partner will advise based on the VIN and country of registration.
Can I drive the vehicle before registration?
No. The vehicle cannot be driven on UK roads until DVLA registration, tax, and MOT are complete.
Ready to begin a vehicle (nova) enquiry?
Pick the path that fits your shipment. The enquiry pre-fills with the right questions for your import type, so we can match you to the partner who handles it routinely.
Goods for resale or business use. HMRC entry, tariff classification, import VAT.
Begin enquiry →02 / PersonalHousehold belongings shipped to a UK address. TOR relief assessed before partner match.
Begin enquiry →03 / VehicleCars and motorcycles. NOVA filed inside the HMRC 14-day window.
Begin enquiry →Not sure which path fits? Email support@portixglobal.com and we will help you classify before the partner match. No payment ever held by Portix.