Whether you're transporting a vehicle for a show, event, demonstration, or short-term use, ShipMyWheels offers full UK-side support for temporary imports and exports of vehicles. We help private individuals and commercial operators navigate customs processes for temporary vehicle entry and exit, ensuring all documents are in order for HMRC and border authorities.
We assist with the UK-side coordination of temporary import declarations, ATA Carnets, re-export support, and vehicle handling at major ports including Dover, Southampton, Felixstowe, and inland terminals such as Barking Terminal.
Common Use Cases: Events, Exhibitions & Short-Term Relocations
Our specialist freight forwarding services support temporary vehicle imports and exports for international events, exhibitions, rallies, and motorsport movements across major global markets. ShipMyWheels assists private owners, racing teams, dealerships, and commercial operators with structured logistics coordination for vehicles moving to and from the UK.
ShipMyWheels coordinates reliable transport services for temporary international vehicle movements, including race car shipping, using RoRo, container, air freight, and specialist transport solutions designed for high-value and time-sensitive shipments. Whether supporting motorsport events, promotional tours, exhibitions, or short-term overseas use, our team ensures every movement is prepared with the correct customs procedures, carnet documentation, and port handling requirements before departure.
With extensive experience managing temporary vehicle movements worldwide, ShipMyWheels provides tailored logistics support for race car shipping and other event-based transport requirements. From customs clearance and carnet coordination through to structured carrier handling and re-import procedures, we ensure every vehicle moves safely, compliantly, and efficiently throughout the journey.
When managing temporary international vehicle movements for events, exhibitions, rallies, and motorsport activities, ensuring the correct customs procedures and compliance documents are in place is essential to avoid delays and unexpected charges. ShipMyWheels simplifies the customs clearance process and supports clients with the documentation required for smooth temporary imports and exports to and from the UK.
We provide full UK-side customs clearance services, including review of commercial invoices, packing lists, Bills of Lading, carnet documentation, and customs declarations. Our team also assists with temporary import and export procedures, registration documentation, and compliance checks for specialist movements such as race car shipping and event-based vehicle transport.
For motorsport teams, event organisers, dealerships, and private clients, we provide structured customs and logistics support for temporary international vehicle movements. Whether coordinating exhibitions, overseas rallies, promotional tours, or specialist race car shipping, ShipMyWheels ensures every movement is managed accurately, compliantly, and professionally from departure through to re-import and final clearance.
Event Logistics Routes & Temporary Movement Networks
At ShipMyWheels, we understand the importance of safely preparing vehicles for temporary international movements and ensuring all customs and compliance requirements are handled correctly before departure or re-entry into the UK. Every shipment is carefully assessed to ensure the correct loading and securing method is used, whether through RoRo, container, air freight, or specialist transport solutions.
We provide professional handling for motorsport, exhibition, promotional, and specialist vehicle movements using secure lashing procedures and structured port handling practices. For high-value or competition vehicles, our team ensures correct positioning, compliance checks, and adherence to shipping line and airline safety procedures before departure. We also advise clients on shipment preparation, including battery isolation, fluid checks, securing loose components, and carnet requirements linked to race car shipping and temporary export movements.
All vehicles are inspected prior to departure to verify condition and documentation, with shipment updates and handling records available throughout the process. Whether supporting rallies, exhibitions, overseas events, or specialist race car shipping, ShipMyWheels ensures every movement is managed safely, compliantly, and efficiently from departure through to return and final customs clearance.
Documents Often Required For Temporary Car Shipping
The 'Documents Often Required' section is a guideline only and not legal advice. We are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or changes to regulations.
ATA Carnet
The primary document used for duty-free temporary movement of vehicles. ShipMyWheels assists in the issuing, processing, and customs coordination of carnets for vehicle shipments attending exhibitions or business events.
Temporary Import Declaration
Required for non-carnet shipments, this customs entry enables short-term admission into the UK. We handle all UK-side declaration paperwork and filing to ensure timely clearance.
Export Certificate (if vehicle is UK-registered)
Export Certificate - For UK-registered vehicles temporarily leaving the country, this confirms export status to HMRC. ShipMyWheels helps prepare this for compliant temporary exports.
V5C Logbook (Vehicle Registration Document)
Proves vehicle ownership and origin. Often required for both import and export declarations. We advise clients on when and how to submit this during their booking.
Commercial Invoice or Proof of Ownership
While not for sale, temporary entries still require documentation proving the value and ownership of the vehicle. ShipMyWheels reviews this to ensure customs acceptance.
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
These documents verify transport details and ports of movement. We ensure your shipment matches with customs entries and carnet logs.
UK Customs Entry Form
ShipMyWheels files your customs declaration in advance of arrival or departure, ensuring compliance and avoiding delays at ports like Southampton or Dover.
Return Shipping Documentation
Once your vehicle is ready to leave the UK or return to the UK, we prepare all necessary paperwork for smooth re-export or re-import, especially for carnet return clearance.
Event Invitation or Participation Confirmation
Required for many temporary imports, especially under ATA Carnet. ShipMyWheels ensures these documents align with customs and carnet requirements.
EORI Number (for business users)
EORI Number - Needed for commercial users or companies shipping under temporary admission. We support new importers with registration and linkage to customs documents.
The 'Frequently Asked Questions' section is a guideline only and not legal advice. We are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or changes to regulations.
What is a temporary import declaration for vehicles?
A temporary import declaration allows your vehicle to enter the UK without paying import duties, provided it will leave again within a set period. ShipMyWheels prepares and files this with HMRC for smooth entry.
Do I need an ATA Carnet to temporarily ship a car?
An ATA Carnet is highly recommended (and often required) for temporary vehicle shipments used at events or shows. We help you arrange, validate, and present this document during UK-side customs processing.
How long can I keep a vehicle in the UK under temporary import?
Typically, a temporary vehicle import is valid for up to 6 months, depending on HMRC regulations and the type of event or purpose. ShipMyWheels ensures your timeline and documents are aligned.
Can I use temporary import services for motorbikes or classic cars?
Yes. We regularly assist with temporary imports of motorcycles, classic cars, and modern vehicles for private or business use, including rallies, launches, or film shoots.
What happens if I don't re-export a vehicle on time?
Failing to re-export on time can lead to penalties or VAT charges. We help you stay compliant with return of vehicles procedures, handling re-export declarations and carnet closures.
Which UK ports can handle temporary imports and exports?
Temporary imports and exports are processed at major ports including Southampton, Dover, Felixstowe, and terminals such as Barking and London Gateway. We coordinate directly with these entry points.
Can ShipMyWheels help with carnet documentation?
Absolutely. ShipMyWheels supports both the issuing and processing of ATA Carnets, ensuring UK-side customs clearance and exit validation is properly managed.
What's required to re-export a vehicle after an event?
You'll need your original entry paperwork, a re-export customs declaration, and any carnet stamping completed. ShipMyWheels ensures all UK-side documentation is handled correctly for smooth departure.
Is VAT or import duty payable on a temporary import?
No, VAT and duty are generally waived under temporary import rules - but only if all conditions are met. We help you document this exemption properly to avoid unnecessary costs.
Can you help with temporary car exports from the UK?
Yes. We offer full UK-side support for temporary car exports, helping with customs clearance, carnet processing, and destination port coordination.
Contact Us About Temporary Vehicle Shipments
If you're shipping vehicles for events or exhibitions, we coordinate temporary movements with the correct documentation and timing. Please contact us on +44 208 754 9000 or email us on hello@yes2ship.com.
All quotations are subject to the final weight and dimensions of your shipment. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that all packages are packed safely and securely for transport prior to collection. Packages must not contain prohibited items, dangerous/hazardous goods (unless specified), or valuable items. Our prices are regularly reviewed and are subject to change without prior notice.
All business is conducted in accordance with the Standard Trading Conditions of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) - Latest Edition, which are available upon request.
