Car relocation to The Netherlands (or elsewhere in Europe)

Are you moving to the Netherlands and planning to bring your car? That’s possible — and often a smart move. Cars in the Netherlands are relatively expensive, especially due to taxes like the BPM (Passenger Car and Motorcycle Tax). By importing your car as part of your relocation and using the relocation exemption, you can often avoid these costs altogether. That can save you tens of thousands of euros!

Bringing Your Car to the Netherlands: What to Arrange

Whether you're moving from the USA, Dubai, Germany, or elsewhere — if you’re bringing your car with you, there are several steps to follow. SCL Rotterdam guides you through the process — from export to registration.

Before Departure: Deregistration & Preparing Your Car for Transport

First, deregister your car in the country of origin (e.g., from the DMV in the U.S. or RTA in the UAE). Then prepare it for transport: remove loose or valuable items and create a packing list of everything moving with the vehicle — this list is required by customs.

Consider taking out transport insurance for added protection. Check our transport page for details on options, costs and coverage.

Required Documents

Make sure you have the following ready when arriving in the Netherlands:

Original registration certificate or export title
Purchase invoice for the car
Your driver’s license and passport
Proof that you’ve lived abroad and are now returning or emigrating to the Netherlands

Learn more in our guide on relocation exemptions for cars.

Inside or Outside the EU: What’s the Difference?

Moving from an EU country (e.g., Germany)? No customs check is needed, but you must apply for the BPM exemption with the Dutch Tax Authorities.

Moving from a non-EU country (e.g., USA, Dubai)? Customs processing is required. If conditions are met, you can completely avoid BPM and import duties via the relocation goods scheme. We assist with this exemption application.

Upon Arrival: Inspection & Registration

After arrival, your car must undergo RDW inspection. As long as it meets Dutch roadworthiness standards, it can be registered — even without EU type approval. This makes the process much faster and cheaper compared to regular import.

SCL arranges for you:

Why Choose SCL Rotterdam?

With SCL Rotterdam, you get full support when relocating your car to the Netherlands:

International transport by sea or road
Customs clearance and exemptions handled
RDW inspection and license plate application

We manage the entire process, so you can relocate — with your own car — stress-free.