Provide the country of origin, vehicle type, and details of your situation. You will receive advice on the required documentation, expected import duties and VAT, and the expected processing time. With no obligations.
// Fast, accurate, and hassle-free
Customs clearance for your vehicle
Importing a car, motorcycle, motorhome, or another vehicle from abroad? Customs clearance is a mandatory step before your vehicle can legally be driven on Dutch roads. As a licensed customs broker, Marlog handles the entire customs clearance process — from document verification to final release. Quickly, accurately, and without surprises.
25+
Years of experience
Licensed
Customs broker
Fast response
Within 24 hours on business days
Fully managed
Complete import process
// Fully managed
What does Marlog handle during customs clearance?
Customs clearance requires accuracy, the correct documentation, and extensive knowledge of regulations. A single mistake in the paperwork can lead to delays, additional costs, or even seizure of the vehicle. Marlog takes care of the entire process — from the very first document to the final release of your vehicle.
Document verification & preparation
Marlog collects and verifies all required documents in advance, including purchase invoices, registration documents, identification details, and any exemption paperwork.
This prevents mistakes before the customs declaration is submitted.
Import duties & VAT calculation
Based on the vehicle type, country of origin, and vehicle value, Marlog calculates the expected import duties and VAT in advance.
You know exactly what to expect. No surprises afterwards.
Filing the customs declaration
Marlog submits the complete customs declaration electronically to the appropriate customs authorities, including the correct commodity codes, tariff classifications, and tax calculations.
If a physical inspection is required, Marlog handles this directly.
Vehicle release & next steps
Once customs approval has been granted, your vehicle will be released. Marlog coordinates all next steps, including transport to the final destination, BPM declaration, RDW inspection, and vehicle registration.
// From document verification to release
How customs clearance works with Marlog
Customs clearance requires a precise and structured approach. Marlog coordinates every step to ensure your vehicle is released as quickly as possible.
01
Documentation
We collect all required documents, including purchase invoices, registration documents, identification details, and any exemption paperwork.Our specialists immediately verify whether everything complies with customs requirements.
02
Valuation & costs
We determine the correct vehicle value and calculate the expected import duties and VAT in advance.This ensures there are no surprises during the clearance process.
03
Customs declaration
Marlog submits the complete customs declaration electronically to the appropriate customs offices, including the correct commodity codes, tariff classifications, and tax calculations.
04
Coordination & inspections
If customs requires additional information or a physical inspection, Marlog handles this directly.We maintain contact with customs authorities and inspection agencies to ensure the process proceeds as quickly as possible.
05
Vehicle release & next steps
After customs approval, the vehicle is released. Marlog completes the entire file and coordinates any follow-up steps, such as BPM declaration, RDW inspection, and vehicle registration.
Would you like Marlog to arrange your customs clearance?
Contact our specialists. You will receive tailored advice on the required documentation, expected costs, and processing times—based on your vehicle and country of origin.
Request advice
// Officially licensed customs broker
Customs clearance specialist AEO-certified
Marlog Car Handling is AEO-certified (Authorised Economic Operator). This European certification confirms that our customs processes meet high standards for security, administrative control, and regulatory compliance.
As a result, we can handle customs clearance efficiently and accurately, giving you the confidence of working with a reliable partner for importing your vehicle.
- Recognised by European customs authorities
- Reduced risk of errors
- Efficient customs processing
- Greater certainty for your import
// For private and business customers
Who does Marlog provide customs clearance for?
Marlog provides customs clearance services for a wide range of customers. From private individuals importing a single vehicle to businesses that regularly import vehicles or goods.
Private individuals
Importing a car, motorcycle, or another vehicle from abroad as a one-time purchase? Marlog handles the complete customs clearance process so you don’t have to worry about anything.
Expats & relocating individuals
Moving internationally and bringing your vehicle with you? Marlog guides you through the household relocation exemption procedure and coordinates transport, customs, and registration.
Dealers & importers
Do you regularly import vehicles for resale or for your fleet? Marlog offers efficient and reliable customs clearance services for business customers. Fast, accurate, and transparent.
Transport companies & agents
Looking for a licensed customs broker to handle customs clearance for your customers or shipments? Marlog acts as your direct representative and ensures the entire process is handled correctly.
// Customs clearance costs
Import duties & VAT when importing vehicles
When importing a vehicle from a non-EU country, you will be required to pay import duties and VAT. The exact amount depends on the vehicle type, age, and your personal situation. Marlog calculates the expected costs in advance, so you know exactly what to expect.
Vehicles under 30 years old:
Passenger cars
10% import duty on the purchase price plus transport costs, followed by 21% VAT on the total amount. BPM is additional — contact us for a tailored calculation.
Motorcycles
6% import duty on the purchase price plus transport costs, followed by 21% VAT on the total amount. BPM applies separately upon request.
Trucks & pick-ups
22% import duty on the purchase price plus transport costs, followed by 21% VAT on the total amount. BPM applies separately upon request.
Vehicles over 30 years old (classic vehicles):
Cars, motorcycles, or trucks over 30 years old. No regular import duties apply. Instead, 9% VAT is charged on the purchase price plus transport costs. No BPM is due.
Household relocation imports (possible exemption):
You may qualify for an exemption from import duties and VAT if you meet the following conditions:
- You have lived continuously outside the EU for at least 12 months
- You have owned the vehicle for at least 6 months prior to the relocation date
- You do not sell or transfer the vehicle within 12 months after import
When the exemption applies:
0% import duties and 0% VAT.
*The above rates are indicative only. Actual costs depend on the specific vehicle, purchase price, and current customs regulations. Marlog calculates the exact costs in advance.*
Contact us
// Avoid delays and unnecessary costs
Common mistakes during customs clearance
Many people who attempt to handle customs clearance themselves without specialist assistance encounter the same problems. Below are the most common customs clearance mistakes. And how Marlog helps you avoid them.
Incorrect or incomplete documentation
Missing or incorrect documents are the most common cause of delays during customs clearance.
Marlog checks all documentation in advance and identifies missing documents at an early stage.
Incorrectly calculated import duties & VAT
An incorrect vehicle valuation or tariff classification may result in customs declarations that are either too high or too low — both carrying the risk of additional assessments or penalties.
Marlog calculates all costs accurately and transparently in advance.
Filing the declaration too late or in the wrong order
Customs clearance must be completed before the RDW inspection and before the vehicle is allowed on public roads.
Marlog monitors the correct sequence and prevents unnecessary delays and additional costs.
Failing to apply for exemptions
Exemptions from import duties and VAT may apply to household relocation imports and certain vehicle types.
Marlog assesses the available options and manages the application process from start to finish.
// Arrange everything in advance
Which documents do you need for customs clearance?
The correct documentation is essential for customs clearance. The exact requirements depend on the country of origin and your personal circumstances. Marlog verifies in advance that all documents are complete.
Standard required documents:
- Purchase invoice (Bill of Sale) — including vehicle description, purchase price, and seller details
- Original registration certificate or ownership document (Title) — showing the VIN and owner’s details
- Valid identification document
Additional documents that may be required:
- VAT number — for customs clearance in a company name
- Exemption permit — when importing a vehicle as household relocation goods
- Power of attorney / direct representation authorization — when authorizing Marlog to handle the process on your behalf
- Technical documentation — for the RDW inspection after customs clearance
Always have your documents checked in advance. Missing or incorrect documents are the most common cause of customs clearance delays.
Import & customs Advisor
Lucas
// Quickly gain clarity about your situation
Discuss your customs clearance requirements with our customs specialists
// Customer reviews
What customers say about Marlog Car Handling
// FAQ
Frequently asked questions about customs clearance
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Didn't find the answer you're looking for? Please contact us or visit our comprehensive FAQ page.