Importing a motorbike: What should you pay attention to and when should you insure it?
Buying a motorbike abroad and then importing it into the Netherlands can be interesting. But it does take some effort. How do you import a motorbike and get a Dutch registration number for it here?
You find the perfect motorbike abroad. Ideally, you would like to pick it up right away and ride it in the Netherlands, or you would like to refurbish it right away. But first you have to arrange the import of the motorbike. How does that work and how do you go about it?
Where does the engine come from?
It makes a difference to the procedure whether the engine is imported from an EU country or from a country outside the EU. This has to do with the free movement of goods and the requirements that are made of motorbikes. There are also a number of countries that are not part of the EU, but for which the same rules apply. These are the so-called EFTA countries. They include the following countries:
- Switzerland
- Iceland
- Liechtenstein
- Norway
Importing from the EU
The vehicle does not yet have a Dutch registration number. You can apply for this at the RDW. First the motorbike must be tested for a Dutch license plate. You can make an appointment for this at an RDW testing station. Making an appointment is not always necessary. The motorbike does not have a registration number yet? In that case you can first apply for a one-day licence plate. Take the foreign registration certificate and your proof of identity to the testing station. Then you also have to file a declaration with the tax authorities. You do this at a bpm declaration point. You pay the BPM and possibly turnover tax on the motorbike. Has the motorbike been approved? You will receive a registration card at home within five working days. The next step is to have a number plate made. Don't forget to insure the motorbike for at least third-party liability (WA insurance). For old-timers, other rules apply for the import.
What about imports from a country outside the EU?
The inspection in particular is different. For this, you must make an appointment with RDW Customer Service. The testing of the engine to be imported takes place at the test centre in Lelystad. The chance that the engine will not be approved is greater here. The engines may not have been built in accordance with the applicable European standards. This requires specialised knowledge, which is why you cannot go to regular inspection locations.
Choose motorbike insurance wisely
You probably import a motor vehicle partly to reduce costs. It would be a shame to throw the money away again with overpriced motorcycle insurance. We can help you with that. On Alpina\.nl you can compare several insurance companies at once.
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