Importing from U.S.

[Tatarovich]

I am interested in buying a used car Florida and bringing it here to EU. But i,m not really sure whether in the end that is still economically sound decision. Does anyone have any importing experiences? Any advice will be very helpful to me.

[vetteheadracer]

Hi Peteri,

There are a lot of threads already about this very subject. Basically you need to llok at the cost of the car, the shipping cost which is usually less than $1,000, then you have to add duty which will be determined locally by your customs agency and then finally valued added tax or the local equivalent.

I am buying a 2002 Dodge Ram truck at the moment and here is the maths for this purchase.

$25,000 for the truck + $1,000 for the shipping = $26,000
$26,000 * 22% for the duty = $5720
$31,720 * 17.5% for the VAT = $5551
TOTAL = $37271

[Tatarovich]

what about on-car modifications that need to be made in order to meet European standards, like lights, windshield etc.. what needs to be done?

Man, they are ripping us off here in EU. Thanks for quick response!

[vetteheadracer]

Again, mods are dependent on the vehicle you import.

Amber indicators, rear fog light and white side lights are usually required for the UK but check with your local vehicle licensing agency as to the requirements.

I forgot to mention in my earlier posting that the costs may well be less if you import an older car, but please check with your local customs office and preferably get the information in writing beforehand.