Moving to Europe? Take your car or bike with you!

If you are moving from the United States to Europe it can be very interesting taking your car, bike or other vehicle with you. If your specific situation meets a few requirements, you can request an exemption permit for removal goods at the Dutch Customs. This means that you do not have to pay import duties, VAT or BPM (Dutch Vehicle Tax) so this can save you a considerable amount of money! SCL Rotterdam is a true specialist if you require this service. Because we ship thousands of vehicles worldwide each year, we have aquired unique knowledge on safely shipping and getting your vehicle imported easily.

Moving your car as a part of your household goods

You can save considerable amounts of money if you are able to ship your vehicle as a part of your normal household goods. Dutch Customs has set some groundrules that have to be considered if you would like to use this "Exemption for Personal Removal Goods". Your situation has to meet the following requirements:

• You are moving to the Netherlands (or another EU-country) from a non EU-country.
• You are able to prove that you have lived in a non EU-country for at least 12 months.
• The goods belong to your household goods.
• You have had the goods in possession and in use for at least six months.
• You have been using the goods as a part of your household goods and you will be using them as such again.
• You will bring the goods into free traffic within twelve months after relocating.
• You will not lend, hire, pawn or sell the goods within 12 months after import.

Furthermore, you need to be able to provide the vehicle's Original Certificate of Title and the Bill of Sale.

SCL Rotterdam has extended experience in requesting such a permit; use our experience to your advantage and save time and money! Please contact us if you would like additional information or a free personal quotation.

Shipping goods together with the vehicle

It is allowed to ship small personal (household) goods within the vehicle, such as used clothing, small equipment or other goods. All the goods need to be specified and listed upon delivery at our warehouse of departure. The personal goods will be reported by us to Dutch Customs and have to meet the same requirements as stated above. This means it is not allowed to ship newly purchased equipment etc. together with your vehicle under the same import license!

Be sure to apply for a Dutch Removal Permit as soon as possible! Dutch Customs is legally allowed to take up to 8 weeks to approve and provide your permit. (Normally this will take anywhere between 1 and 3 weeks)