Planning a road trip or an extended stay in Europe and considering bringing your car with you? While flying across the Atlantic may be the easiest way to get to Europe, transporting your car requires a bit of planning and consideration. Whether you’re planning to stay for a few weeks or moving for a longer period, here’s what you need to know to successfully bring your car to Europe.
Shipping Your Car to Europe
The first step is to decide how to get your car to Europe. There are two main options: shipping by sea or transporting it via air freight. Shipping by sea is the most common and cost-effective option, typically taking between 2 to 4 weeks depending on the departure and arrival ports. Major shipping routes from the U.S. to Europe include ports in the UK, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. You’ll need to choose whether you want your car shipped in a container or in a Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) vessel, with the latter being a more affordable but less protected option.
Costs and Customs
Bringing a car to Europe can be expensive. Shipping costs generally range from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the size of your car and the shipping method. It’s also important to consider customs duties and taxes when your car arrives. Each European country has different import regulations, but generally, you’ll need to pay VAT (Value Added Tax), which ranges from 17% to 27% depending on the country. You’ll also need to have your car inspected to meet the country’s road safety and emissions standards, which can be an additional cost.
Driving in Europe
Once your car has arrived, there are a few key differences between driving in Europe and other parts of the world. The most important thing to note is that most European countries drive on the right side of the road (except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta). Make sure your car is equipped with the necessary features to meet local driving regulations, such as headlights that are compatible with European roads and a speedometer that reads in kilometers per hour.
Additionally, some European cities, particularly in Italy, Spain, and France, have restrictions on car entry in certain areas to reduce congestion and pollution. Before arriving, check to see if your destination has low-emission zones or special permits that might be required.
Temporary vs. Permanent Stay
If you’re bringing your car for a short-term visit (less than 6 months), the process is relatively straightforward, and you likely won’t have to register your car in Europe. However, if you’re staying longer, you may be required to register your car and obtain European license plates. The rules vary by country, but in most cases, once you’ve lived in a country for more than 6 months, you will need to pay import duties and taxes, register your car, and possibly modify it to comply with European road standards.
Alternatives to Bringing Your Car
If the logistics of shipping your car seem overwhelming, renting a car or using a European car leasing service might be a good alternative. Many rental agencies offer long-term rentals, which can provide flexibility without the hassle of shipping. Car-sharing services, like Zipcar, are also widely available in major cities across Europe.
