If you are planning to purchase, or if you have already purchased, an imported car, getting the vehicle insured so you can get it on the road is a top priority. However, finding coverage for your import can be time-consuming, frustrating, and expensive. But it’s not impossible. Just be ready to ask questions and possibly contact several insurance agents to get the coverage you need.

While you can often get a good deal on the purchase of an imported car, you may lose the money you save on the purchase price by having to pay higher insurance premiums. That’s why you should shop around and get several quotes to find the most competitive rate. If you are importing a sports care, you almost certainly will pay more for coverage. That’s because sports cars are more prone to crashes.

Most insurance companies will insure an imported car as long as they can locate the car?s registration number. If they cannot locate the registration number, then see if the insurance company can find the exact vehicle model in the company look up table. If that does not work, then see another insurance provider.

Some companies only insure the most popular models of imports. They may only insure them for market value, not replacement cost. Other companies will write policies for modified vehicles, but only as long as the modifications are not significant. If you make substantial modifications to your imported car, then you will have to find a carrier that specializes in import cars. “Substantial” means different things to different companies, and sometimes small differences in the work on your car can make big differences in the price you are quoted. That’s why it is important to ask around and to ask lots of questions as you get your insurance quotes.

Also, some companies will not insure imported vehicles that are European versions of a UK car, with a left-hand drive, the idea being that if you wanted that model, you should have bought it with a right-hand drive to drive in the UK. That is another thing to keep in mind as you import your vehicle and get your insurance.

It is very important to check your import?s security fittings. This could impact the vehicle?s eligibility for coverage, as well as the cost. Not having proper security fittings can either raise the insurance premiums dramatically, or cause the provider to refuse to insure the vehicle. Make sure you get detailed information on the vehicle?s security fittings prior to having the vehicle imported.

While insuring your import may be time-consuming and expensive, it’s not impossible. Do your research. Ask Questions. Call your importer and ask for their advice for obtaining insurance. And if you are importing a sports car, you can often get insurance at a discounted rate simply by joining a car club. Clubs often make deals with insurance companies for their members?ask about the benefits available to you. Finally, make sure you get comprehensive coverage for your imported vehicle. You imported car is an expensive investment, and it needs thorough insurance protection.