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Technical Adjustments and European Regulations
The last step before you can truly enjoy your classic car is arranging the EU license plate registration.
Technical Adjustments and European Regulations
A classic car from a non-EU area often does not directly comply with European regulations. For example, the city lights and turn signals are often configured differently. SCL Rotterdam has its own workshop specially equipped for these adjustments and possesses all the knowledge regarding European vehicle requirements.
Our enthusiastic team of mechanics has worked on countless classic cars over the years and handles your classic car with great passion and care! Especially with classic cars, we pay close attention to maintaining authenticity and will always discuss any changes that might affect the original character of the car with you beforehand. And of course, all original parts are kept so they can always be reinstalled later. In addition to the necessary lighting adjustments, your classic car often needs to meet Dutch APK (periodic vehicle inspection) requirements. If the inspection reveals that the car does not meet safety standards, we can usually make the necessary repairs and replacements of parts in our own workshop.
It is good to know that classic cars 50 years or older are no longer required to undergo an APK inspection. This was decided in 2021 by the then Minister Van Nieuwenhuizen (Infrastructure and Water Management) to ease the burden on owners of these historic vehicles.
“Minister Van Nieuwenhuizen: "Classic cars are often owned by true enthusiasts. They pay great attention to the maintenance of their vehicle and drive it relatively little. To avoid unnecessary costs for the owners, they no longer need to take their vehicle for mandatory inspection once it is 50 years old or older.”
RDW Inspection and Classic Car License Plate by SCL Rotterdam
Once your classic import car meets European and APK safety standards, the car must be inspected by the RDW. This inspection checks whether the vehicle technically meets safety standards and Dutch/European regulations regarding lighting, and the identity of the vehicle is verified. In some cases, it is necessary to engrave the chassis number on the car if it is not present or legible.
SCL Rotterdam is an RDW-recognized company. This means that the National Vehicle Authority has authorized SCL Rotterdam to independently perform certain tasks. This enables us to arrange the inspection of your classic car efficiently and quickly!
BPM Declaration
Before the RDW issues the final license plate, the BPM declaration must be taken care of. For classic cars, this is merely a formality since classic cars are fully exempt from BPM due to their age, so nothing needs to be paid.
Additional Services
The services of SCL Rotterdam go beyond importing and registering! While the car is being registered, we can also provide the following additional services:
Installation of Certified Alarm Systems and Immobilizers
Insurers often require certified alarm systems or immobilizers to be installed in classic cars to minimize the risk of theft. SCL Rotterdam can easily arrange this while the car is being registered. The classic car remains in our own warehouse while our alarm specialist installs the new immobilizer. After delivery of the car, you will receive the officially approved certificate, which is directly registered with the new license plate. Very convenient!
Cleaning and Polishing
An imported classic car has made quite a journey and may not look as it did in the seller’s photos upon delivery. Do you want to immediately enjoy how beautiful your classic dream car can look? From vacuuming and a simple wash to full interior cleaning – everything is possible at SCL Rotterdam! If you are interested in this, let one of our staff members know. Once the car arrives in our workshop, our professional car detailers will contact you to discuss the options.
Road Transport Throughout Europe
No time or opportunity to pick up the classic car from our warehouse, or do you prefer to have the car delivered clean and dry to your home? No problem at all: SCL Rotterdam can arrange the transport of your classic car throughout Europe at competitive rates. Our reliable transporters guarantee professional handling and prompt delivery.
The Benefits of SCL Rotterdam for Classic Car Import at a Glance
- Thousands of classic cars imported
- Always a custom package – don’t pay more than necessary
- Purchase guidance for inexperienced buyers – buy safely and wisely
- Own warehouses for unloading and storage – your classic car dry, warm, and safe
- Professional and experienced staff – your car handled with great care
- Modifications in our own workshop – effective solutions while maintaining authenticity
- Classic car registration arranged directly for your car
Request a Free Quote for Importing and Registering Your Dream Classic Car
Curious about the costs of importing and registering your classic car in the Netherlands? Request a free, no-obligation quote to know exactly what to expect. Prefer to receive more information first? We are available every working day from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Call +31 (0)10 427 7723 or email sales@sclrotterdam.com. We are happy to assist you.
