Oldtimer

Have you fallen in love with a classic car from the USA, Japan, or another country outside of Europe? Then SCL Rotterdam is the right place for you. For nearly 20 years, we've been helping enthusiasts, collectors, restorers, and investors import their classic cars. Whether it's a rare Ford Mustang Fastback, an iconic Mercedes SL, or a unique vintage pickup — we make sure your vehicle is imported safely, cost-effectively, and fully legally.

I want an offer

At SCL, we take care of all the necessary paperwork and ensure your classic car clears customs without any issues. If desired, the vehicle can even be delivered right to your doorstep. Do you have questions about importing your classic car or want to know what it means to bring a vintage vehicle into the Netherlands? Get in touch with us — we’re here to help!

Why choose to import a classic car?

A classic car is more than just a vehicle — it’s an experience, an investment, a passion. Buying abroad gives you access to a wider selection and often better prices. However, the rules for importing classic cars from the USA or other non-EU countries are more complex than for modern vehicles.

SCL Rotterdam takes care of the entire process for you:

• Support with purchase and inspection
• Safe transport by sea or road
• Customs clearance and tax optimization
• RDW inspection and license plate registration
• Delivery to your home in the Netherlands or elsewhere in the EU

Want to know more about how we work? Read more about buying your classic car or our shipping and road transport options.

Classic Cars with Tax Benefits

Are you importing a vehicle that’s over 30 years old and in original condition? Then you can benefit from attractive tax advantages:

• 0% import duties

• 9% VAT (instead of 21%)

• Exemption from BPM and often also from road tax (if over 40 years old)

More information can be found on our VAT and import duties for classic cars page.

From Classic to Investment
Our customers import classic cars for various reasons:

• Collectors looking for automotive icons

• Investors seeking stable, classic assets

• Restorers and hobbyists with a passion for mechanics and history

• Expats relocating with their classic car

Popular countries to import classic cars from include:

• United States

• Japan

• Canada
  
  Germany, Italy, and France are also interesting countries of origin for EU imports.

Popular Models & Production Years

Based on import data since 2023, we see a clear preference for brands like:

• Volkswagen (Beetle, T2 Bus)

• Ford (Mustang, F100, Model T)

• Porsche (911)

• Chevrolet (Camaro, Corvette)

• Mercedes-Benz (SL series, Ponton)

Most imported classics fall between model years 1965–1985, although older models remain very popular as well.

Ready for the Road

As soon as your classic car arrives in the Netherlands, we ensure it gets approved by the RDW or TÜV. For vehicles over 30 years old, more relaxed technical standards often apply. We make sure your classic is inspected correctly and registered with Dutch plates.