Overview of the process
If you’re living in Spain and want to get your hands on the latest German engineering, importing a car from Germany to Spain could be the perfect solution. Although it may seem like a daunting process, it can actually be quite straightforward if you follow the proper steps.
The first thing you need to do is research the rules and regulations for importing a car into Spain. While the process is fairly easy within the EU, it can be more complicated for non-EU countries. Take the time to make sure you have all the necessary paperwork and permissions in place before you start the process.
Next, you’ll need to decide on the best way to transport your car from Germany to Spain. There are a few different options, including shipping the car or driving it yourself. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh your options and choose the one that will work best for you.
Once you have your car in Spain, you’ll need to register it and get it insured. This can also be a complex process, so be sure to do your research and make sure you have all the necessary paperwork and permissions in place.
Overall, importing a car from Germany to Spain can be a great way to get a high-quality vehicle at a lower cost than you might find locally. With the right preparation and research, you can make the process relatively stress-free and enjoy your new car in Spain in no time.
Research car import regulations in Spain
If you’re looking to import a car from Germany to Spain, it’s important that you do your research on the regulations surrounding car imports in Spain. This can help you avoid any unexpected fees or issues that may arise during the import process.
Firstly, it’s important to note that Spain charges a tax on all vehicles that are imported. The amount of tax that you will have to pay will depend on the value of the car that you are importing. You will also need to take into account any additional fees that may be charged, such as customs duty, VAT, and registration fees.
It’s also important to note that there are specific regulations surrounding the import of left-hand drive vehicles in Spain. If you’re planning on importing a left-hand drive vehicle, you will need to ensure that you obtain the necessary paperwork and approvals in advance.
You should also check whether the car you’re planning on importing meets Spanish safety and emissions regulations. If the vehicle does not meet these standards, you may need to make modifications before it can be registered and used legally in Spain.
Overall, it’s essential that you carefully research the regulations surrounding car imports in Spain before attempting to import a car from Germany. This will help you avoid any issues and ensure that you’re fully prepared for the import process.
Find a reputable car exporter in Germany
If you are in the market for a new car and live in Spain, importing a car from Germany can be a cost-effective option. However, importing a car may seem daunting, especially if you have never done it before. One of the most important steps in the process is to find a reputable car exporter in Germany.
There are many car exporters in Germany, so it’s essential to do your research to find a reliable one. Look for an exporter with experience in exporting to Spain and good reviews from previous customers. You can also ask for referrals from friends or family members who have imported a car in the past.
Once you have a list of potential car exporters, contact them to ask about their services, prices, and delivery times. It’s crucial to get quotes from at least three different exporters to compare prices and services.
It’s also essential to ensure that the car exporter you choose is licensed and insured. A licensed exporter will have the knowledge and experience to navigate the export process, while insurance will protect your car during transportation.
Once you have chosen a car exporter, they will handle most aspects of the export process, including paperwork, customs clearance, and transportation. However, it’s essential to stay in communication with them throughout the process to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Obtain necessary documents and certifications
Before you can start the process of importing a car from Germany to Spain, you need to obtain all the necessary documents and certifications required by the authorities in Spain. The following are the documents you will need:
- Vehicle Registration Certificate: This document shows that you legally own the car and is issued by the German authority that registered the vehicle. Make sure to obtain the original copy of this document.
- Export Certificate: This document confirms that you have exported the car from Germany and is necessary for registering the car in Spain. You can obtain this certificate from the German registration authority.
- Certificate of Conformity: This document verifies that the car meets the environmental and safety standards set by the European Union. You can obtain this certificate from the car manufacturer.
- Spanish Vehicle Registration Application Form: This form is the application for the registration of the car in Spain.
- Insurance: You will need to obtain an insurance policy that is valid in Spain before you can register the car there.
Make sure to check with the Spanish authorities and your chosen shipping company for any additional documents or certifications that may be required.
Once you have obtained all the necessary documents and certifications, make sure to keep them safe and bring them with you when transporting the car to Spain.
Arrange for transportation of the car
Arranging for transportation of the imported car from Germany to Spain can be a daunting task, but it’s a crucial stage in the import process. In this section, we’ll explore the different ways you can transport your car, and what you need to consider when making your choice.
The two main transport options are driving the car yourself or using a professional transport service. If you choose to drive the car yourself, you’ll need to apply for temporary registration and insurance plates in Germany before setting off. The drive from Germany to Spain can take around 20 hours depending on your route, and you’ll need to plan for rest breaks and potential overnight stays. This option can be cheaper, but it’s not recommended for long distances or for those who are not confident driving long distances.
Using a professional transport service is a more popular choice, especially for individuals who are importing luxury or high-end cars. There are many companies that offer door-to-door services, where they pick up the car from the seller in Germany and deliver to your door in Spain. These companies handle all the necessary paperwork, such as customs clearance and transportation permits. You’ll need to provide them with the relevant documents, including proof of purchase, vehicle registration, and insurance certificates.
When choosing a professional transport service, it’s important to research the company and check their reviews and experience. Make sure they have the right permits and licenses to operate in both Germany and Spain, and that they have insurance coverage for your car during transport. You should also ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs involved, including any taxes and fees that may apply.
Once you have arranged for transportation of your car, you’ll need to be prepared for its arrival in Spain. You’ll need to arrange for customs clearance and pay any necessary taxes and fees, as well as register your car with the local authority and obtain Spanish registration plates.
Overall, arranging for transportation of your imported car can be a smooth process if you choose the right option and plan accordingly. With careful research and organization, you can have your dream car delivered to your doorstep in Spain in no time!
Pay all import taxes and fees
Importing a car from Germany to Spain is not a complicated process, but there are some formalities that must be addressed. One of the most important elements to consider is the payment of import taxes and fees. Here are the steps to make sure you pay them all and get your car registered in Spain in no time:
First, calculate the import taxes and fees by using the official calculator available on the website of the Spanish Tax Agency. The amount you’ll pay depends on different factors, such as the age and value of the car, as well as the CO2 emissions and engine type.
Once you have the final sum, make sure you pay it before your car arrives in Spain. Otherwise, you’ll have to deal with unnecessary delays and penalties. The payment process is straightforward and can be done online or in person at a bank.
After you pay the import taxes and fees, you’ll receive a certificate that proves you have fulfilled this obligation. This document will be required when you register your car in Spain, so make sure you keep it safe.
Remember that failing to pay the import taxes and fees can have serious consequences, such as fines and even confiscation of your car. Therefore, it’s important to take this step seriously and follow all the necessary procedures.
Register the car in Spain
Once your car has arrived in Spain, the next step is to register it. Before you can register the car, you will need to obtain a few documents.
The first document you will need is the car’s European Certificate of Conformity (COC). This certificate proves that the car meets European Union standards for safety and exhaust emissions. If your car does not have a COC, you may need to arrange for a type approval inspection by a Spanish Technical Inspection Association (ITV).
You will also need to obtain a Spanish registration form, known as a solicitud de matriculación. You can obtain this form from a Jefatura de Tráfico (Traffic Department) or download it from the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) website.
In addition to these documents, you will need to provide proof of your identity (such as your passport or NIE) and proof of address (such as a utility bill or rental contract).
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can take them to your local Traffic Department to register your car. You will also need to pay the registration tax, which is based on the value of the car and varies depending on the region of Spain.
After registering the car, you will receive a Spanish license plate and registration certificate. You can then legally drive the car in Spain.
Take the car for an inspection and obtain Spanish plates
After successfully importing your car from Germany to Spain, it is important to take the necessary steps to make it road-legal. One of the things you must do is to have the car inspected to ensure it meets Spanish safety and emissions regulations.
To do this, you need to take the car to an official vehicle inspection center, known as a “ITV” (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos). At the center, the car will be subjected to a series of tests to check its roadworthiness and compliance with Spanish regulations. These tests typically include checking the brakes, suspension, lights, emissions, and other critical components of the car.
Once the car passes the inspection, you will receive a certificate stating that it meets Spanish regulations. This certificate, also known as the “ficha técnica” or technical sheet, is a crucial document that proves the car’s roadworthiness and compliance with Spanish law.
With the certificate in hand, the next step is to obtain Spanish license plates for your car. You can do this by visiting your local traffic office, known as “Jefatura de Tráfico.” To register the car, you need to bring along the technical sheet, proof of ownership, and your ID or passport.
The process typically involves filling out an application form, paying a fee, and submitting the necessary documents. Once your application is approved, you will be issued with a set of Spanish license plates, which you must fix to the car.
With the car inspected and registered, you can now legally drive it on Spanish roads. It is important to note that you should also update your car insurance policy to reflect the new registration and obtain a new policy if necessary.
Conclusion
Importing a car from Germany to Spain can be an excellent solution for those living in Spain who want to own a high-quality vehicle at a lower cost. However, the process of importing a car can seem daunting, and it is important to follow the proper steps.
Firstly, it is essential to research the rules and regulations for importing a car into Spain, including the taxes and fees that apply. Regulations surrounding left-hand drive vehicles should also be considered. Finding a reputable car exporter in Germany is also vital, and potential exporters should be vetted and asked for referrals.
Obtaining all the necessary documents and certifications required by Spanish authorities is another critical step, including a Certificate of Conformity and an export certificate. Arranging for the transportation of the imported car from Germany to Spain is also important, and using a professional transport service is usually the best option.
It is also imperative to pay all import taxes and fees and obtain a certificate that proves you have fulfilled this obligation. Finally, registering the car in Spain, taking it for an inspection, and obtaining Spanish plates are essential steps towards making it road-legal. With proper research, organization, and compliance with the necessary steps, importing a car from Germany to Spain can be a stress-free process.
