What is a Landed Cost?
The landed cost is the total cost of a vehicle delivered to your door — including all UK and destination-country costs. It covers the vehicle purchase price, international shipping, marine insurance, import duty, and any local taxes such as VAT or GCT. Understanding your landed cost before you commit is essential for budgeting your import correctly.
The 5 Components
- 1
Vehicle Price (ex-UK)
The price you pay for the vehicle in the UK, before any export costs.
- 2
Shipping Freight
The cost of transporting the vehicle from a UK port to your destination port. Varies by route and shipping method (RoRo vs container).
- 3
Marine Insurance
Insurance covering the vehicle during transit. Typically 1–2% of the vehicle value.
- 4
Import Duty (% of CIF value)
Duty charged by the destination country, calculated as a percentage of the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight). Rates vary significantly by market.
- 5
Local Taxes / VAT
Taxes applied in the destination country on top of the CIF value plus duty. Examples include GCT in Jamaica, VAT in Kenya.
The Formula
CIF = Vehicle Price + Shipping + Marine Insurance
Duty = CIF × Duty Rate
Tax = (CIF + Duty) × Tax Rate
Landed Cost = CIF + Duty + Tax
Worked Example — Jamaica
| Vehicle Price | £10,000 |
| Shipping (RoRo) | £950 |
| Marine Insurance | £200 |
| CIF Value | £11,150 |
| Import Duty (40% of CIF) | £4,460 |
| GCT + SCT (approx. 16.5%) | £2,577 |
| Estimated Total Landed Cost | ~£18,187 |
Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always request a confirmed quote.
Get Your Personalised Estimate
Every import is different. Contact us for a free, itemised quote tailored to your vehicle and destination.
Get a Free Quote