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BPM calculation and declaration
What is BPM?
BPM (Private Motor Vehicle and Motorcycle Tax) is a one-time tax levied on every car or motorcycle that is registered in the Netherlands and receives a Dutch license plate. This tax applies whether you buy a new car or import one yourself—as long as the vehicle is being registered in the Netherlands for the first time.
The amount of BPM is based on the vehicle’s CO₂ emissions, its age, type, and a set of depreciation tables or an official appraisal report.
When you buy a new car as a consumer, the BPM is paid directly by the dealer or importer and listed separately on the invoice. However, if you import a car yourself from abroad, you are responsible for filing and paying the BPM yourself. This is done via a BPM declaration.
At SCL Rotterdam, we’ve imported and registered many thousands of cars over the years. We are true experts in the BPM process and are happy to share our knowledge with you. Whether you are importing a car from Switzerland, the USA or the UK, we’ll guide you step-by-step to find the right BPM route tailored to your situation. Our experience ensures we know what works (and what doesn’t) with the Dutch Tax Authorities, helping you avoid unnecessary costs.
BPM calculation and declaration
When importing a car from abroad, it’s crucial to account for any BPM due. This tax can be substantial in some cases—and naturally, you want to avoid unpleasant surprises. If you work with SCL, we make sure your calculation is accurate and your BPM declaration is submitted on time.
Don’t automatically rely on free websites to calculate your BPM. These calculators may work in some cases, but not all. Especially for non-EU vehicles, they often miscalculate due to outdated tables or depreciation percentages that don’t fit your car or its origin. Furthermore, most online tools do not consider alternative calculation methods like appraisals or market-based lists—methods that can often result in significant savings.
Exemptions and variants
In some situations, no BPM is owed. For example:
100% electric vehicles are almost entirely exempt from BPM (though a minimum fee of €667 applies for new EVs).
Cars imported as part of a household relocation are often fully exempt—provided they meet the customs exemption criteria.
Vans or campers are subject to different BPM regulations than passenger cars.
We’ll actively advise you on which BPM rules best fit your situation. Whether you have to pay or qualify for exemption, we’ll handle all the details.
Tailored BPM advice from SCL
We provide detailed BPM calculations using the most advantageous methods for your case. That means no surprises and full transparency on your costs. Want to know your expected BPM? Contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate. We offer various calculation methods—based on depreciation tables, market value lists or formal vehicle appraisals. Together, we choose the most cost-effective option.
But BPM is just the beginning. We also handle the full customs clearance, import duties, VAT, and registration. One partner for the entire process.
Prefer more information first? We’re available every business day from 08:30–17:00. Call us at +31 (0)10 427 7723 or email sales@sclrotterdam.com—we’re happy to help.
Why outsource your BPM declaration to SCL?
- Experts in BPM for import vehicles—including from the USA, Switzerland, or Japan
- Collaboration with certified BPM appraisers for complex cases
- BPM declaration arranged within just a few business days
- Always personal contact and clear guidance
- Full service: from calculation to communication with the tax office
- Status updates via our customer portal
