Insurance for Imported Cars for Less

If you are considering importing a car from the Euro zone or any other part of the world, you must understand that you will pay more to keep the said car insured. Imported car insurance rates are much higher than those of cars manufactured in the UK. There are basically two types of imports: parallel imports and grey imports. Parallel imports refer to cars that are imported from within the European Union. For the car to be brought into the country, it has to be made to UK car specifications. Areas of consideration include emission performance and safety. Grey imports refer to cars manufactured in countries outside of the European Union.

The insurance cost of individual imported cars will depend on the car’s specifications and warranty. Generally though, all imports cost more to insure because of three main reasons:

- They are rare vehicles on UK roads and are therefore more attractive to thieves.
- Their spares have to also be imported hence raising the cost of spares and repairs.
- There are few qualified people to service them.

These three factors mean that insurance companies have to take it upon themselves to ensure that spares are available. They also have to find qualified people to work on the repairs and general servicing whenever the cars need it. To shield themselves from loss after replacing your car if it’s stolen, insurers charge high rates. As an imported car owner, you have to come up with ways of paying lower rates. Thankfully, you will not need to do anything out of this world for this. Here are guaranteed ways of lowering your imported car insurance rates:

1. Find a specialist insurance company
Many companies that import cars have a branch that handles insurance. They may offer this service on their own or in a partner program with a car insurance company. Depending on the company you are using, the rates can be high or low. You can take up a short term policy with them as you shop around for more favorable rates. Alternatively, simply look for a company that specializes in imported car insurance. The internet will give you a speedy answer to this. The greatest advantages of using specialist companies are that you get lower rates and tailor-made services.

2. Compare quotes
Get as many quotes as possible from both specialist and general insurance providers. It is the only way to find which company has the lowest rates. While at it, ensure that you do not compromise on coverage as it can leave your car vulnerable.

3. Keep your car safe
Your imported car is already a target for vandalism and theft. Installing anti-theft devices will minimize this risk and put you in favour with your insurer. The safer your car becomes, the lower your insurance rates fall.

4. Get discounts
There are a number of discounts you can enjoy even with an imported car. Multi-policy discounts and low mileage discounts are just some of them. Buy home, health and short term life insurance from the same company that insures your imported car to benefit. If you drive your car occasionally, you qualify for a low mileage discount.

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