Importing a Caterham


Looking to import a Caterham to the Netherlands? At SCL Rotterdam, we make it happen without the hassle. Caterham has been building the purest driver's car in the world from their factory in Dartford, England, for over fifty years: the Seven. No frills, no unnecessary technology, just more driving pleasure per kilogram than almost anything else on the road. Whether you want a Caterham Seven 420 from the United Kingdom, a rare 620R or a second-hand example from Japan: we handle the entire import process from A to Z.

Why import a Caterham?

Caterham has an official importer in the Netherlands, but the full range is not available here. The Seven 420, 620 and special editions such as the Nürburgring Edition are not or barely delivered in the Netherlands due to EU emissions regulations and post-Brexit homologation requirements. Anyone who wants the most powerful or most exclusive version has to get it where it is available: in the United Kingdom. Second-hand Caterhams from Japan and the US are also interesting for their unique specifications and lower purchase prices. Import is the only route.

Why choose SCL Rotterdam as your Caterham importer?

Full service, everything under one roof

At SCL Rotterdam, we combine over 15 years of import experience with a genuine passion for driver's cars. And a Caterham is a driver's car in its purest form. Our service covers not just the transport from the UK or elsewhere, but also the complete customs clearance, storage and all technical modifications in our own workshop. One point of contact, no surprises.

Experience with British imports after Brexit

The United Kingdom is Caterham's home. Almost every new car coming to the Netherlands goes through customs. We know those procedures, the required documents and the applicable rates inside out. Read more about how we import vehicles.

Support with purchase and modifications

Have you not yet found your Caterham? SCL Rotterdam offers professional purchase guidance. We help you assess the vehicle and can arrange an inspection before it goes on transport. A UK Caterham has right-hand drive and British lighting. Our workshop handles all modifications needed for Dutch roads and RDW approval. Every Caterham is hand-assembled and can differ individually from the specifications on paper. That requires a bespoke approach, and that is exactly what we deliver.

Cost of importing a Caterham

Costs depend on the model, the origin and the services you choose. Do you only need transport and customs, or also the full technical inspection and registration? You can request a no-obligation quote for a clear breakdown. No hidden costs, always a full overview upfront.

Transport options for your Caterham

Container transport and road transport

From the United Kingdom, container transport is the safest option for a Caterham. The car is fully protected throughout the journey. For some routes, particularly from nearby countries, road transport is also an option. From Japan or the US, container transport is the standard. We always advise on the best option for your situation and recommend transport insurance, which we can arrange on your behalf.

Global ports and speed of delivery

We import vehicles from ports all over the world. Caterhams almost always come from the United Kingdom, but also from Japan or the US. We know both routes well. Your car arrives quickly and safely in Rotterdam.

Advantages of SCL Rotterdam

Own storage facilities and fast customs clearance

We have our own facilities for safe storage and keep the entire customs process in-house. That makes the procedure significantly faster. Our full service package also includes Dutch registration and tax declaration, using a favourable calculation method to keep the tax liability as low as possible.

What to watch out for when importing a Caterham

Conversion tips

A UK Caterham has right-hand drive and British lighting. Modifications are required for Dutch road approval, including headlight adjustment and RDW registration. What makes a Caterham unique is that every car is hand-assembled and can differ individually from the stated specifications. That requires a thorough technical check on arrival. Our workshop carries out all necessary conversion to European standards with precision.

Purchase inspection

Buying a second-hand Caterham without an inspection is a risk. Build quality and maintenance history vary significantly between examples, especially those originally built as kits. Our specialists know exactly what to look for. Visit our purchase inspection page for more information.

Payment service

We also offer a payment service so you can handle the purchase of your Caterham safely and without complications. This gives you extra certainty that the transaction goes smoothly.

Popular Caterham models to import

Clients regularly import the following Caterham models through SCL Rotterdam:

  • Caterham Seven 310 and 360 – the balance between accessibility and genuine driver performance
  • Caterham Seven 420 – 210 hp in a car weighing under 600 kg, an experience without equal
  • Caterham Seven 620 and 620R – the absolute flagship, supercharged and strictly for connoisseurs
  • Caterham Seven Nürburgring Edition – one hundred examples worldwide, built for circuit use and collectors
  • Caterham Super Seven 1600 and 2000 – the retro-inspired line, faithful to the original Lotus Seven design
  • Classic Caterham Seven (S3, SV) – older examples with a rich history and a passionate owner community

Shipping a Caterham: why choose SCL Rotterdam?

Unlimited passion for cars

Our passion for cars is something you feel as a customer. A Caterham is not for everyone. It is a car for people who know what driving truly is, without driver aids, without power steering, without distraction. We understand that choice and handle your import with the care that such a special vehicle deserves.

Direct contact with our specialists

Do you have questions about importing a Caterham? The specialists at SCL Rotterdam are ready to help. For a tailored solution that fits your situation, you can always get in touch. Call us or fill in the contact form for personal advice.

What can we do for you?

At SCL Rotterdam, we understand that importing a Caterham can be an exciting but sometimes complex process. That is why we take care of everything. From purchase guidance to delivery at your door, we handle it all.

Ready to import your dream car? Request a quote today or get in touch for more information. We are ready to make your Caterham dream a reality.

Dion van den Haak
Sales Coordinator
Questions? Please ask Dion