Export Cars
to Malaysia
UK Car Export provides professional vehicle export services to Malaysia for private buyers, trade customers and dealerships. We manage the complete process from vehicle sourcing and documentation through to international shipping and delivery support.
Request Export QuoteExporting to Malaysia
Malaysia operates a tightly controlled vehicle import system requiring an Approved Permit (AP) for all vehicle imports. Right-hand drive UK vehicles are well suited to Malaysian roads. The AP system means most imports are handled by licensed AP holders.
UK Car Source provides vehicle export services to Malaysia, working with AP holders and managing UK-side documentation, sea freight to Port Klang and compliance paperwork for SIRIM approval.
Import Rules
| Drive Configuration | Right-hand drive required. |
| Vehicle Age Limit | Maximum 5 years from manufacture for used/reconditioned imports. Approved Permit (AP) required for all vehicle imports. |
| Condition | Excellent condition required. SIRIM inspection required. |
| Customs Authority | Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) |
| Duty & VAT | Import duty (30%), excise duty (up to 105%) and sales tax applicable. AP holder required. |
| Standards | SIRIM type approval required. UK-specification vehicles need compliance documentation. |
Import regulations are subject to change. We recommend confirming current requirements with the relevant customs authority prior to shipment.
Major Ports
Shipping Options
Required Documentation
Estimated Timelines
Vehicle Sourcing & Preparation
1–3 weeks depending on specification and availability
Documentation & Export Clearance
3–7 working days
Sea Freight Transit
22–30 days sea freight
Customs Clearance at Destination
3–14 working days depending on port, standards approval and documentation
Total Estimated Process
7–13 weeks from order to delivery (subject to availability, compliance and customs)
Import Tax Breakdown
| Import Duty (CBU) | 30% — applies to completely built-up vehicles from non-FTA countries including the UK |
| Excise Duty | 60–105% based on engine displacement: 1800cc or less 75%; 1800–2000cc 80%; over 2000cc 105% |
| Sales & Service Tax (SST) | 10% on vehicle value |
| AP (Approved Permit) | Required for all vehicle imports — must be obtained via a licensed AP holder approved by MITI |
| Post-Import Inspection | PUSPAKOM inspection required at designated centre after clearance |
| Total Cost Impact | A luxury vehicle from the UK can cost 200–300% of the UK price in Malaysia |
Tax rates are indicative and subject to change. Verify with local customs authority before shipping.
Port Guide
Port Klang (Northport and Westport) is the main vehicle import port, serving Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. Penang Port and Johor Port are secondary options. Port Klang is efficient with standard clearance of 7–14 working days. Royal Malaysian Customs Department handles duty assessment.
The AP (Approved Permit) system is administered by MITI — a licensed AP holder must be involved in the import. PUSPAKOM inspection at a designated centre after clearance is mandatory. Ensure the AP is secured before making any shipment commitment.
Local Market Advice
Malaysia has a strong prestige car culture in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. The excise duty structure is punitive for high-displacement vehicles, but wealthy buyers accept this for exclusive models. Range Rover Sport, BMW X5, and Porsche Cayenne are the sweet spot of the import market.
The AP system means buyers typically work through established licensed importers. RHD from the UK is a perfect fit (Malaysia drives on the left). Full service history from UK main dealers adds significant value. Black, white, and dark grey are the preferred colours.
Export a Vehicle to Malaysia
Contact our export team today. We handle sourcing, documentation, shipping and logistics — so you don't have to.