The importation of cars from Germany has become very popular in recent years. The reasons of this interest are multiple: attractive prices, quality of the vehicles, diversity of the models and facility of the administrative steps. In this article, your German luxury car dealer explains how to import a car from Germany by respecting the different steps and regulations.
The advantages of importing a car from Germany
Attractive prices: Used cars in Germany are sold at very competitive prices compared to the French market.
Quality of vehicles: German cars are known for their reliability and longevity.
Wide choice of models: The German car market is very rich, offering a wide range of makes and models.
Ease of procedures: The administrative formalities for the importation of a car from Germany are simplified, in particular thanks to the services proposed by the automobile agents.
Importing a car from Germany
1. Search and selection of the vehicle
The first step is to search for the vehicle that meets your criteria (make, model, equipment, mileage, etc.) on the various specialized websites or by contacting German dealers directly.
2. Checking the vehicle
It is essential to check the condition of the vehicle before making the transaction:
Ask for a detailed report on the vehicle’s history (TÜV, service, accidents, etc.).
Make sure that the seller has all the necessary documents concerning the vehicle (European Certificate of Conformity, purchase invoice, maintenance booklet, etc.).
3. Negotiation and payment
Do not hesitate to negotiate the price of the vehicle with the seller. Once you have reached an agreement, proceed with the payment according to the terms agreed upon between you and the seller (bank transfer, bank check, etc.).
4. Temporary registration in Germany
Before bringing the vehicle back to France, you must obtain a temporary German license plate (Kurzzeitkennzeichen) valid for 5 days. For this, you will need to provide the following documents:
Copy of your identity card
Proof of address
Certificate of insurance (valid in Germany and in the countries you drive through)
European certificate of conformity
5. Return of the vehicle to France
You can choose to bring the vehicle back by road (respecting the traffic and insurance rules) or call upon a professional transporter who will take care of the repatriation for you.
Administrative procedures in France
1. Final registration in France
Once the vehicle has arrived in France, you must apply for registration within 30 days. To do so, you must provide the following documents:
European certificate of conformity
Vehicle purchase invoice
Certificate of transfer (if applicable)
Proof of address
Power of attorney if the procedure is carried out by a third party
2. Technical inspection
If the vehicle is more than 4 years old, it must pass the French technical inspection within 6 months of its importation.
3. Insurance
Don’t forget to take out insurance for your vehicle once it is registered in France.
Use a car agent to facilitate the import
To simplify all the steps related to the importation of a car from Germany, it is possible to call upon a car agent. This professional will accompany you throughout the process, from the search and selection of the vehicle to the registration in France. In conclusion, importing a car from Germany can represent many advantages, as long as you respect the different steps and regulations in force. Do not hesitate to be accompanied by an agent to facilitate your steps and take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the German market.