Step-by-step plan: Importing a car from Germany
Germany has become by far the most popular country for importing a car in recent years. There are several reasons for this. First, Germany often has a larger selection of cars, which are also better maintained and more fully equipped. Thus, you may find a car in Germany that you cannot buy in the Netherlands. In addition, German cars are often a lot cheaper to buy than Dutch cars. Of course the costs involved in importing a car must be taken into account, Are you planning to import a car from Germany? On Alpina.nl we have compiled a handy step-by-step plan for you!
Step 1: Buying a car in Germany
The first step, of course, is to purchase the car. It is important to pay attention to a number of things when buying an import car. Actually, these are the same things you would pay attention to if you were to buy a car in the Netherlands. For example, always look carefully at the technical condition of the vehicle and its maintenance history. Also, always ask for the car papers and service booklet. That way you won't have any nasty surprises later on in the Netherlands.
Step 2: Transporting the car from Germany to the Netherlands
After you buy the car in Germany, you need to transport it to the Netherlands. This can be done in two different ways:
Driving a car
Do you choose to drive the car to the Netherlands yourself? Then you must have valid third-party insurance for the car. However, most insurance companies do not allow you to take out third-party insurance for a car with a foreign license plate. You can, however, apply for a temporary license plate for importing a car.
Autoambulance
Another way of transportation is with an auto ambulance. This way you don't have to take out third-party insurance or drive yourself. Less hassle, but perhaps also less fun. Many people choose to drive the car to the Netherlands themselves because they would like to drive their new car as soon as possible.
Step 3: Have the car inspected by the RDW
A car from abroad does not just get a Dutch license plate. The vehicle must first be inspected by the RDW to see if it meets all environmental and safety requirements. You must therefore have the car inspected at an RDW inspection station. During the inspection, the inspector checks whether the vehicle can be allowed on the road in the Netherlands. Also, the inspector establishes the data for the declaration of the BPM.
Step 4: Filing a BPM declaration
The next step is to file BPM returns. BPM is the tax you pay for a passenger car, van or motorcycle. The tax authorities calculate the BPM for a passenger car based on its CO2 emissions. If you buy a new car in the Netherlands, the importer will declare BPM for you. However, if you import a car from Germany, you must file your own BPM return. You can only declare BPM once the car has been inspected at an RDW inspection station.
Step 5: Mounting the licence plates
Only after you have filed your BPM return and the BPM has been paid, will you receive a Dutch license plate from the RDW. You will also receive the corresponding license plate card in your name. Then all you have to do is mount the license plates and you can take your imported car onto the Dutch public roads!
Getting car insurance? Check out Alpina\.nl!
Once your imported car from Germany is ready to hit the Dutch roads, you do need car insurance. After all the hassle of importing, you will want to get a car insurance policy quickly and easily. We can help you with that! On Alpina.nl you can easily compare providers in order to find the best car insurance. Still have questions? Then please contact us!
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