Where UK car exporters are making money in 2026 — UAE, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Australia and Cyprus. What sells, at what margin and how to ship.
Why the UK is a leading export source
The UK is a primary used-car export market because of three structural advantages: a large fleet of high-spec well-maintained vehicles, right-hand-drive supply for RHD markets (East and Southern Africa, Asia, Australasia), and one of the world's deepest auction networks (BCA, Manheim, Aston Barclay).
In 2026 the strongest external demand is from Africa, the Gulf and Oceania.
United Arab Emirates
Used UK cars sell well into the UAE because of weak local depreciation on European brands and a busy re-export trade onward to Iraq, Yemen, the Levant and East Africa. Best sellers: Range Rover, Mercedes G-Class, Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus LX, Porsche Cayenne. RoRo to Jebel Ali from £695 with 18–22 day transit. See UAE destination guide.
Nigeria
Nigeria has the largest used-vehicle market in West Africa. Demand concentrates on Toyota Camry, Lexus RX, Highlander, Honda Pilot, Acura MDX. Newer cars (2018+) face a 35% duty + 35% levy. Inspection (CRI) required pre-shipment. RoRo to Lagos / Tin Can Island from £750. See Nigeria destination guide.
Ghana
Ghana is an alternative landing point for West Africa, particularly Tema port. Lower congestion than Lagos and reasonable inland routes to landlocked neighbours. Best sellers: Toyota Corolla, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage. RoRo from £795.
Kenya
Kenya enforces an 8-year age limit on imported cars, so 2018+ models dominate. RHD market — perfect for UK supply. Best sellers: Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester, Mercedes C-Class. RoRo to Mombasa from £895 with 28–34 day transit. See destination notes on shipping a car to Kenya.
Australia
Australia favours classics, modified, motorsport and high-end vehicles via the SEVs scheme. Standard newer cars need full ADR compliance. Container or shared container is standard — RoRo is rarer. Best sellers: classic British cars, modified JDM-imports-from-UK, performance Land Rovers. Sole 20ft from £2,950.
Cyprus
Cyprus is RHD and EU — a unique combination. UK cars register easily with EU compliance papers. Best sellers: small SUVs (Nissan Qashqai, Volvo XC40), compact saloons, hybrids. Shared container or RoRo to Limassol from £950.
How to pick a market
- Check duty and VAT in our import duties guide.
• Confirm RHD/LHD suitability.
• Match your stock to local demand — luxury for UAE, mid-size SUV for Kenya, classic for Australia.
• Sense-check shipping cost against margin using the cost calculator.
• Avoid first-time markets without a verified buyer or clearing agent.
Talk to an export specialist
We ship to all of the above weekly. Call or WhatsApp +44 (0)1495 320540, email info@shipcarsroro.co.uk or request a quote.
UK collection, recovery and onward transport
Before any international shipment, vehicles need to reach the loading port — and many customers ask us to handle the UK leg too. Our recovery and transport network covers every postcode, 24 hours a day.
Start with the main hubs: Car Recovery UK, Vehicle Recovery UK, 24/7 Breakdown Recovery and Nationwide Vehicle Transportation.
City coverage includes London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Glasgow, Sheffield and Bristol.
Pre-book a port run on a flatbed transporter from Southampton, Portsmouth, Liverpool or Felixstowe via Ipswich, or call 24/7 for breakdown recovery in London, Birmingham or Manchester.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country buys the most UK used cars in 2026?
Is RHD supply an advantage?
What is the best country for classic cars?
Which African country is easiest to import to?
Which country is cheapest to ship to?
Which market pays the highest margin?
Is there an age limit?
Can I export EVs?
How do I find a buyer overseas?
Can you ship to multiple buyers per container?
Ready to Ship Your Vehicle?
Get a free, no-obligation quote for international vehicle shipping from the UK. Check our destinations or use the cost calculator.
Written by
Zahir
SEO & Logistics Expert
Zahir is a seasoned SEO strategist and content writer specializing in international logistics, vehicle shipping, and automotive culture. With over a decade of experience in the shipping industry, he provides expert insights to help customers navigate the complexities of international vehicle transport.
