Can I take my car from US to Spain?

Yes, you can take your car from the US to Spain. However, there’s a 10% import duty based on the vehicle’s value and additional local charges in Spain. It’s important to note that cars older than 25 years cannot be shipped and imported to Spain from the USA.

For many Americans, relocating or spending an extended period in Spain is appealing. If you’re among them considering bringing your car along, it’s essential to understand the associated costs and regulations. While you can ship your car from the US to Spain, there are specific duties, restrictions, and procedures to be aware of, especially concerning the age of the vehicle and the associated import duties.

Understanding the Legalities of Importing a Car from the US to Spain

Importing a car from the United States to Spain involves compliance with specific legislative rules. One such critical rule is that the vehicle should conform to the European Union’s safety and emissions standards. Even if the automobile meets U.S. regulations, there may still be a requirement for modifications to adhere to the EU standards. A ‘Certificate of Conformity’ is mandatory, and in its absence, an ‘Individual Vehicle Approval’ will be required, marking a thorough inspection of the car physically.

Another significant legality to be aware of pertains to customs duties and taxes. Importers need to pay a 10% duty on the purchase price and the shipping cost of the car. Additionally, a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 21% applies to the car’s purchase, shipping value, and import duty. These charges get waived off in the case of people moving their regular residence to Spain, provided they have owned and used the car for six months prior to the import in their previous country. In such cases, they need proof of residency and comply with certain rules like not selling the car for a year after importing.

The Costs Involved in Shipping a Car from US to Spain

Transferring a vehicle from the US to Spain can involve substantial expenses, making it indispensable to understand the financial implications. Primarily, the costs depend on the shipping method chosen, either via container or Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping. Other factors influencing the cost include vehicle size and weight, value, pick-up location, delivery destination, and time of year. Additional expenses can arise from optional services like door-to-door shipping and professional packing. It’s essential to request comprehensive quotes from shipping companies detailing all charges related to the shipping process.

Aside from the actual shipping fees, there are significant costs associated with taxes and import duties levied by Spanish authorities. Assessments are typically based on the vehicle’s market value and emission ratings. Furthermore, there’s a 21% VAT on the total cost of the vehicle including shipping, and duty rates can range from 5.3% to 19.6%, depending on whether the vehicle is new or used. Lastly, compliance modifications may be necessary to meet Spanish vehicle safety and emission standards, and these often prove to be a significant cost factor.

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