Get in touch:
+3110 427 77 20
info@sclrotterdam.com
Get in touch:
+3110 427 77 20
info@sclrotterdam.com

When you import a classic car from one EU-country to another, your import will be subject to the 'free movement of goods' regulations throughout the European Union. This means you will not have to pay import duties and VAT for a classic car that remains in the EU. 

With classic car import from the USA, or any other country outside the EU, import duties will not apply in most cases. VAT upon import for classic cars has been set at 9% and applied to the sum of the vehicle purchase amount and transport cost. Click here for a full schematic of percentages duties and VAT applied for import from outside Europe (opens in a popup window). The lower VAT rate for classic car import is part of the legislation that refers to the import of antique goods. To qualify for the low VAT rate your classic car must be:

  • in its original state without changes to the chassis, steering, braking system, engine etc.
  • at least 30 years old
  • of a model or type no longer in production

Classic oldtimer carA few more requirements need to be met in order to fully qualify for the low VAT rate. Therefore no rights can be obtained from the above text. The final decision if your vehicle qualifies as an original classic will always be determined by the Customs Office. Customs randomly performs physical inspections of imported classic vehicles to assess if a vehicle meets the requirements.

Make sure you are well informed about your vehicle's eligibility for import at the low VAT rate. For example, if your vehicle is in fact a replica of an original classic car, Customs will decide that normal duties and VAT rates apply. Feel free to contact us to discuss your vehicle's specifications in advance.