FAQ about car import

From purchase to Dutch plates, an import takes 6 to 14 weeks on average, depending on the country of origin. From the US you’re usually looking at 6 to 10 weeks, while from Australia or Asia that rises to 10 to 14 weeks because of the longer sea voyage. The biggest time factors are the shipping itself and waiting for a suitable sailing. After arrival in Rotterdam or Antwerp come customs clearance, the BPM declaration and the RDW inspection; that part typically takes two to three weeks. We keep you posted on the status throughout the entire process.

That depends on the model and the price difference with the Netherlands. Importing pays off above all for cars that are scarce or much more expensive here: American pickups, Japanese sports cars, luxury cars from Dubai or young electric cars from China. A favorable exchange rate or a BPM-exempt classic can make the difference too. Set against that are the import costs, which vary by country, so the answer always calls for a calculation up front. Send us the make, model and asking price: we’ll work out, with no obligation, whether the import is worthwhile for you.

That depends on the type of vehicle, the country of origin and the shipping method. The cost is always made up of the same items: transport in the country of origin, shipping, insurance, import duty, VAT, any BPM (the Dutch registration tax) and the cost of inspection and registration. Classic cars enjoy tax advantages, while boats are exempt from BPM but do pay VAT. You’ll find the details on the page for each type of vehicle; for your specific situation we calculate the costs in advance.

Yes, but you will be responsible for arranging transport, customs formalities, the RDW inspection, and the BPM declaration yourself. Many importers choose professional assistance because the process is complex and often involves multiple parties and countries.

The average lead time is 6 to 10 weeks, depending on the vehicle’s location in the United States, available sailings, customs processing times, and BPM processing by the Dutch Tax Authorities. Marlog provides a realistic timeline for each stage with every quotation.

The total cost consists of the purchase price, ocean freight (typically between €850 and €2,500), 10% import duties and 21% VAT on the purchase price plus transportation costs, BPM (depending on the vehicle), and the RDW inspection. Marlog provides a detailed quotation outlining all costs in advance.

Allow around 10 to 14 weeks in total. The sea voyage by container from a Chinese port to Rotterdam takes 4 to 6 weeks. On top of that come the purchase, the inland transport in China and the export documents, and after arrival the customs clearance and the RDW approval. A model without European type-approval takes longer to reach registration, because an individual inspection requires extra time. We give you a realistic timeline for your situation in advance.

The cost depends on the model, purchase price, shipping method, import duties, VAT, and BPM. European approval costs may also apply. Because costs vary from car to car, Marlog provides a clear and transparent cost estimate in advance. Request a no-obligation quotation to find out exactly what to expect.

Allow 8 to 12 weeks on average from purchase to Dutch registration. The shipping itself takes 3 to 4 weeks; around that come the purchase, the collection and the export formalities in Dubai, and after arrival the customs clearance, the BPM declaration and the RDW inspection. Thanks to the weekly sailings to and from Dubai, your car rarely has to wait long for a ship. We provide a concrete schedule for each situation.

On top of the purchase price you pay inland transport within the UAE, shipping (RoRo € 1,500 – € 2,500, container € 2,500 – € 4,000), 10% import duty, 21% VAT and BPM. That last item in particular varies enormously from car to car: an economical SUV pays little, a V12 pays a lot. The RDW inspection and any adjustments to the specification cost money too. Send us the listing and you’ll receive one calculation up front with the full total.

Allow 8 to 12 weeks from purchase to Dutch registration. The sea voyage from ports such as Yokohama, Nagoya or Osaka to Rotterdam takes up the largest part: around 6 to 8 weeks. On top of that come the Japanese export registration beforehand and the customs clearance, BPM declaration and RDW inspection after arrival. Because there are weekly sailings from Japan, your car rarely has to wait long for a ship. We keep you up to date on the current status throughout the entire process.

Besides the purchase price, you pay auction and export costs in Japan (around € 300 – € 800), transport to the port (€ 200 – € 600), shipping by RoRo (€ 1,800 – € 2,800) or container (€ 2,500 – € 4,000), 10% import duty, 21% VAT and BPM. The BPM depends on CO2 emissions and age; at 25 years and older it disappears entirely. Finally, there are costs for the RDW inspection and the adjustment of the lighting (€ 250 – € 950). We make a complete calculation before you buy, so you know exactly what the car costs on Dutch plates.

RoRo shipping is affordable and fast, making it ideal for running vehicles. Container shipping provides maximum protection and is particularly suitable for classic cars, non-running vehicles, and situations where you also want to ship personal belongings or other cargo.

Marlog will advise you on which shipping method best suits your vehicle and situation.

Shipping from North America typically takes between 3 and 5 weeks at sea, excluding inland transport and customs procedures. The exact transit time depends on the route and sailing schedule. Marlog provides a clear delivery estimate with every quotation.

Yes. In addition to your vehicle, a shipping container often provides space for personal belongings or household goods. Marlog coordinates the packing list and customs requirements for the entire shipment. This is not possible with RoRo shipping.

In most cases, this is not permitted with RoRo shipping. If you would like to transport personal belongings or household goods together with your vehicle, container shipping is usually the better option.

Ocean freight typically costs between €850 and €2,500, depending on the port of departure, shipping method, and vehicle type. In addition, you should account for import duties (10%), VAT (21%), BPM, the RDW inspection, and vehicle registration costs. Marlog provides a complete quotation outlining all costs in advance.

Customs clearance is the process by which an imported vehicle or goods are officially declared to customs authorities. During this process, the required documentation is submitted, and any applicable import duties and VAT are calculated and paid. Only after customs approval can the vehicle be legally registered and driven in the Netherlands.

Yes, it is possible to clear a vehicle through customs yourself. However, mistakes in the documentation or tax calculations can lead to delays, additional assessments, or fines. Working with a licensed customs broker such as Marlog saves you time, effort, and unnecessary risks.

At a minimum, you will need a purchase invoice (Bill of Sale), the original registration or ownership document (Title), and a valid form of identification. Depending on your situation, additional documents may be required, such as a VAT number, exemption permit, or power of attorney. Marlog verifies in advance that all documentation is complete.

When all documentation is complete and correct, customs clearance usually takes a few business days. Missing documents or physical inspections by customs may extend the processing time. Marlog checks all documentation in advance to help prevent delays.

The cost of customs clearance consists of import duties, VAT, and customs brokerage fees. Passenger cars under 30 years old are generally subject to 10% import duty and 21% VAT on the purchase price plus transport costs. For classic vehicles aged 30 years or older, no import duties apply and only 9% VAT is due. Marlog calculates the exact costs in advance.

BPM stands for Passenger Car and Motorcycle Tax (Belasting van Personenauto’s en Motorrijwielen). You pay BPM when registering a vehicle in the Netherlands. This applies to imported passenger cars, motorhomes, and certain commercial vehicles, whether they are new or used.

BPM is calculated based on factors such as CO₂ emissions, vehicle age, original list price, and vehicle specification. There are four officially recognized calculation methods: the market valuation method, the fixed depreciation table, an appraisal report, and the historical BPM rate. Marlog compares all available methods to determine which results in the lowest possible BPM.

Yes. By selecting the right calculation method, documenting damage or wear through an official appraisal report, and verifying the CO₂ data, the BPM amount can often be significantly reduced. Marlog always calculates the most advantageous option for your specific situation.

The BPM declaration must be submitted before the RDW inspection and before applying for Dutch registration plates. Failing to do so may result in delays and additional costs.

Fully electric vehicles are exempt from BPM. Classic vehicles aged 25 years or older may qualify for exemptions under the classic vehicle scheme. Certain commercial vehicles may also qualify for exemptions under specific conditions. Marlog will verify whether your vehicle is eligible.

Import duty rates vary depending on the vehicle type, age, and country of origin. Therefore, it is advisable to have a calculation made in advance. Marlog calculates the exact import duties, VAT, and BPM for your specific situation — free of charge and without obligation.

Customs authorities calculate import duties based on the customs value, not just the purchase price. The customs value consists of the purchase price plus transportation and insurance costs up to the European border (the so-called CIF value). Import duties are calculated on this total amount.

An exemption may apply when importing a vehicle as household relocation goods. To qualify, you must have lived continuously outside the EU for at least 12 months, have owned the vehicle for at least 6 months before the relocation date, and not sell or transfer the vehicle within 12 months after import. Marlog assesses your eligibility in advance.

Yes. When registering a vehicle in the Netherlands, you will usually also have to pay BPM (Dutch vehicle tax). BPM is separate from import duties and VAT and is calculated based on the vehicle’s CO₂ emissions, age, and value.

Yes. An RDW inspection is mandatory for all vehicles being registered in the Netherlands for the first time. For vehicles imported from another EU country, the inspection primarily consists of vehicle identification and document verification. Vehicles imported from outside the EU are always subject to a full technical inspection.

The RDW import inspection is a one-time identification and approval inspection for vehicles being registered in the Netherlands for the first time. The Dutch MOT inspection (APK) is a periodic roadworthiness inspection for vehicles already in use. For some imported vehicles, both inspections are required before registration can take place.

The costs depend on the vehicle type, country of origin, and any required modifications. Marlog always starts with a technical assessment and provides a transparent, no-obligation quotation based on the findings, including all modifications and inspection costs.

Technically, yes. You can schedule an appointment with the RDW yourself. However, without proper preparation, documentation, and any required modifications, you risk rejection, which can lead to additional costs and delays. Marlog handles the complete process for you.

No. Marlog operates its own approved RDW inspection station in Roosendaal. You do not need to take your vehicle to an RDW inspection center yourself — we handle the entire inspection process in-house.

A vehicle imported from abroad cannot be permanently driven in the Netherlands on foreign license plates. RDW registration is mandatory to officially register the vehicle in the Dutch vehicle register so it can be insured and taxed.

Official RDW fees generally range between €130 and €200. Additional import-related costs may apply, such as BPM, inspections, and license plates. Marlog provides a complete and transparent quotation in advance.

Marlog does not purchase the vehicle on your behalf, but we do help you buy with confidence. We provide advice throughout the purchase process, can arrange secure payment through our escrow service, and handle the complete import process once you’ve purchased the vehicle.

An escrow service provides a secure way to pay for a vehicle purchased abroad. Your payment is held safely until the agreed conditions have been met and the required documents have been verified. Marlog can arrange escrow services to help make international vehicle purchases safer and more reliable.

Not for every import. Escrow is particularly valuable when purchasing from an unknown private seller, an auction, or an overseas dealership where payment and vehicle handover need to be carefully coordinated.

Yes. Escrow is most effective when payment, vehicle release, and shipping are closely coordinated. Marlog can manage the entire process, from escrow and transport to final vehicle registration.

We import virtually any vehicle that can be shipped. The four largest categories are cars, classic cars, motorcycles and boats, each with its own page covering all the details. On top of that, we regularly import campers, trucks, tractors, quads and work equipment. It doesn’t matter which country the vehicle comes from: through our daily sailings and local agents, we bring vehicles to the Netherlands from every continent.

Absolutely. Many customers find a vehicle online themselves and then turn to Marlog for support with advice, communication with the seller, price negotiations, transport, customs clearance, and vehicle registration.

Yes. Marlog can manage the entire import process on your behalf, from pre-purchase inspections abroad to transport, customs clearance, RDW inspection, BPM declaration, and vehicle registration. You can also outsource individual parts of the process, such as shipping your car only.

Yes. You can hire Marlog for the complete import process or for specific services only, such as customs clearance, the RDW inspection, the BPM declaration, or vehicle registration. Contact us to discuss the available options.

Yes. Marlog can assist you throughout the purchasing process. We provide expert advice, offer secure payment through our escrow service, and help verify the seller and documentation where possible. After the purchase, we take care of the complete import process, including transportation, customs clearance, RDW inspection, and Dutch registration.