Sri Lanka's Emerging Automobile Community for Land Rover Defender

David_Christopher · Aug 21, 2025, 12:27 PM

Machanla, planning to import a 1985 Series III from UK and totally confused about duty calculation. Heard rates changed again this year and customs officers giving different information each time I call. Vehicle cost is around £8000, what should I expect for total landing cost? Also need to know about age restrictions - Series III is 40 years old, any special considerations for vintage vehicles? Don't want to start process and get stuck halfway because of wrong information. Anyone imported classic Land Rovers recently?

NuwanJayasinghe · Aug 21, 2025, 05:16 PM

Bro, classic vehicle imports are tricky business! For vehicles over 35 years, there's sometimes vintage vehicle category with reduced duties but need to prove it's collector item. Current duty structure is around 100% plus VAT, excise, other charges. Your £8000 Series III might cost 30-35 lakhs total including shipping, clearing, all taxes. Better contact David Pieris Automotive or HNB for proper calculation - they handle classic imports regularly. Also check if vehicle needs modifications for local compliance. Process takes 3-4 months minimum, so budget for storage costs too. Get written quotation before starting!