The process
Transfer or import a vehicle
You already own a vehicle registered in another country and want to re-register it? We take care of the entire administrative process.
The process is broadly similar from one European country to the next: assemble the vehicle's file, settle its customs and tax situation, then register it with the authorities of the destination country. We handle each of these steps for you.
Whether the vehicle is owned by an individual or a company, and whether it comes from France, Belgium, Germany, Italy or elsewhere, the main stages are the same. Here is, in detail, what to expect — and what we take off your hands.
The process in detail
Which documents do I need to gather?
The first step is a complete file. Start by identifying the current owner on the registration certificate — an individual or a company. Depending on the case, a sale agreement or an invoice (incl. VAT) will be required.
Original registration certificate. Essential. Depending on the country of origin, it may be a single document (France) or in several parts (Belgium, Germany, Austria…). Some countries also require an export certificate — e.g. Italy (ACI) or Monaco.
Certificate of conformity (CoC). It certifies the vehicle's technical conformity and is required for registration. If missing, it can be re-ordered from the manufacturer (prices vary by brand).
Manufacturer plate and insurance. A photo of the manufacturer plate (chassis and conformity numbers) is requested. Once the file is ready — an email is enough at first — we request insurance and reserve a registration number.
How does customs clearance (tax clearance) work?
For a vehicle from the European Union, goods move freely: no customs duties, though a tax clearance may be required depending on the country. For a vehicle from outside the EU, full customs clearance applies before any registration.
The authorities check the file's consistency: purchase invoice, VAT treatment, chassis number, date of first registration and the vehicle's chain of ownership (the name on the certificate must match the seller — hence the importance of an ID copy). Mileage may be requested. It is best to have the vehicle available on the day.
How does the registration step work?
Once the file is validated, we prepare the registration application (number, holder's identity, chassis, date of first registration…) and file it with the relevant authority. Standard checks follow: stolen-vehicle database, ownership history.
Modified vehicle? Always flag it beforehand. Any notable modification (wheels, suspension, exhaust, seats, braking…) may require an individual approval step, on presentation of a homologation (CoC) or a TÜV / Dekra certificate. Additional fees may apply.
Is a technical inspection required?
Depending on the vehicle's age, a technical inspection may be required, then periodically (intervals vary by country). A recent vehicle is usually exempt for an initial period.
Our tips before the test, to avoid a re-test: check all lighting (headlights, indicators, fog lights, plate light), the horn and washer fluid, the presence of a hi-vis vest and warning triangle, no tinted film on the front windows, tyre wear, and valid insurance and road tax. Finally, present a clean vehicle: overall impression matters.
Good to know. For a used vehicle, VAT has, as a rule, already been settled; for a new vehicle, it is due in the country of destination (where the owner is established). We help you determine the applicable treatment — see the taxes page.