Classic Car Import
Importing a classic car is a process that combines the excitement of acquiring a rare and valuable vehicle with the complexities of international logistics, customs, and compliance with European Union (EU) regulations. Similar to importing specialized assets such as yachts or vintage boats, bringing a classic car into the EU requires precise coordination of multiple steps to ensure the vehicle arrives legally, safely, and with predictable costs. CYP Automotive specializes in managing every stage of the classic car import journey, leveraging extensive experience in global regulatory frameworks. From the initial purchase abroad to the completion of all customs and documentation procedures, CYP Automotive offers a seamless, full-service solution tailored to your unique vehicle import needs.
Benefits of importing a classic car
Expert handling of customs and documentation
CYP Automotive manages all compulsory customs formalities and paperwork, reducing delays and legal risk while ensuring the vehicle clears EU entry under correct tariff classifications.
Access to broader market and rarer models
Importing opens access to models and series not available locally, enabling collectors and enthusiasts to secure specific trims, historic provenance, or unique specification levels.
Professional condition assessment and restoration advice
We arrange technical inspections, pre-purchase checks, and guidance on necessary repairs or sympathetic restorations to preserve value and authenticity.
Transparent cost planning and tax optimization
CYP provides clear cost breakdowns including duties, VAT, and any national taxes, and we apply favourable calculation options where lawful to minimize your tax burden.
End-to-end logistics and delivery
From secure pickup and specialised transport to local delivery and RDW or registration support, we coordinate every logistic element so you receive the car without unexpected obstacles.
Costs of Importing a Classic Car
Costs for a classic car import vary depending on several critical factors, including the vehicle’s origin country, its size, the chosen shipping method, customs duties, local VAT rates, inspection fees, and any required technical certificates.
Typical cost components include export handling and fees at the origin country, sea freight or specialized transport fees, inland transportation to and from ports, customs clearance charges, port handling and storage fees, and any technical inspections or modifications needed to meet specific EU or national registration standards. The classification of a vehicle as a classic car import for customs purposes can sometimes offer reduced duty rates, but this requires specific and meticulous documentation which we manage entirely.
BPM Declaration and RDW Inspection for Your Classic Car
For clients importing a classic car into the Netherlands (or similar registration requirements in other EU countries), there are several mandatory final steps we expertly arrange for you to get your vehicle legally on the road:
BPM Declaration: BPM (Tax on Private Motor Vehicles and Motorcycles) is a registration tax in the Netherlands. We meticulously calculate the BPM in advance using the most favorable, legally permissible calculation method—often based on depreciation or the trade value for classic cars—to ensure you pay the absolute minimum tax required. This process is complex, but our expertise delivers significant savings.
RDW Inspection: Before the vehicle can be legally registered, it must pass a technical inspection by the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority). We schedule and coordinate this inspection entirely. Prior to the official inspection, we offer a preliminary check of the classic car in our own workshop or via certified partners. This pre-inspection ensures all technical and compliance aspects are met, guaranteeing a quick and smooth RDW inspection process on the first attempt, preventing costly delays.
Classic Car Transport Options
When arranging the transport of your specialty vehicle, especially for an importing a classic car transaction, you generally have two primary options, chosen based on the vehicle’s condition, value, and your budget: container transport or roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro transport).
Container Transport: This is often the most secure option and is highly recommended for high-value or non-running classic cars. Your vehicle is carefully secured inside a dedicated or shared shipping container, providing excellent protection against external elements, impacts, and theft throughout its journey. We also offer the option of non-running or damaged car transport within a container.
Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) Transport: With Ro-Ro, the classic car is driven directly onto the specially designated ship deck, where it is securely fastened for transit. This is a very quick and efficient method and is generally preferred for fully running and operational vehicles. While efficient, it exposes the car to the elements and is therefore less suitable for damaged or exceptionally high-value classic cars that require maximum protection.
What to consider when importing a classic car
Some essential questions to ask yourself:
Is the maintenance history known? Service records, restoration invoices, and mileage documentation protect value and reduce risk.
Does the vehicle have accident or corrosion history? Past damage, poor repairs, or rust can affect safety, appraisal, and registration checks.
Can you arrange a pre-purchase inspection? We can coordinate an independent inspection to confirm matching numbers, authenticity of components, and overall condition before payment or loading.
How will you manage funds securely? We support safe, documented payment flows and can recommend reputable escrow-style arrangements to protect both buyer and seller.
Additional services
Vehicle Transportation & Shipping. Door-to-port or door-to-door solutions with vetted carriers, tailored to your route and vehicle profile (enclosed trucking, container, or Ro-Ro).
Customs & Documentation Support. Preparation of customs declarations, compilation of international paperwork, and liaison with authorities to minimize clearance times and costs.
Ready to import your classic car?
Choose CYP Automotive to turn a complex transaction into a controlled, transparent process managed by experienced specialists. We combine customs expertise, logistics coordination, and technical workshop support to deliver your classic car with legal certainty and care. Contact us via the contact form on our website to start with a short intake.