Useful documents to import used cars for professionals
Import of vehicles inside and outside Europe requires organization to manage all the administrative documents related to this process. Knowing which items are necessary to prepare is crucial as it will help to avoid a number of issues. In addition, some regulations differ between countries in and outside the European Union, which means that depending on your business, it is worth to have an overall knowledge of the different regulations.
Follow our guide to be more comfortable with the different documents which are necessary to import used cars around Europe.
Registration documents
The verification of ownership and the vehicle's history relies on the vehicle's registration documents. These are necessary for both the export from the origin country and the import into and outside the European Union. It is also needed for any movement within the same country.
If you don't possess those documents, you won't be able to register your newly bought vehicle from the old owner to the new one. Plus, without original documents, you won't be able to take the vehicle from the departure country to its destination in case of exportation outside the EU.
The registration documents include owner information, vehicle history, and registration details, useful for used car professionals.
Insurance Certificate
An insurance certificate is an important document for the process of purchasing used cars in Europe. It provides coverage for the vehicles during the transit, ensuring that both the buyer and seller are protected against potential losses or damages. This document is highly recommended and can help used car professionals mitigate risks and secure their investments.
It is the dealer's responsibility to properly insure its vehicles for transportation before the vehicle leaves the storage place.
Import VAT and proof of purchase
Used car dealers exporting from the European Union to outside the EU need to know which regulations, taxes, and duties they will be subjected to.
Customs clearance requires proof of payment for import Value Added Tax (VAT) and any applicable duties. The documents required may differ by country, but proof of purchase is essential for the customs declaration form. All goods, including used vehicles, need this form to leave the European Union territory. This form provides detailed information about the shipment and is used by customs authorities to assess duties and taxes.
Certificate of Origin (COO)
The Certificate of Origin specifies that the vehicle originates from the European Union. This document is essential for determining import duties and ensuring compliance with trade agreements and Customs requirements. It must adhere to international standards in its appearance and content. Specific wording should be used to ensure compliance with the rules.
Some European companies may provide a non-complying document for European origin of vehicles. Remember that Customs can still check export or import used vehicles deals years after the dealer purchased it. And if Customs finds some issues, your company must pay duties and possible penalties based on your country regulation.
Used car professionals need to remember that not all brands provide COO anymore.
The CMR
The convention on the contract for the international carriage of goods by road is a mandatory document for transportation if it is managed by a transport company. It covers multiple important information like the various parties involved in the transport. It gives a legal framework to the whole process, from the storage park to the dealer's premises.
The park, transporter, and used car professional will complete this document as the vehicle moves through each step.
By choosing transportation with Arval Trading, you can save time and receive your vehicles directly at your premises. With negotiated tariffs, dedicated routes and an internal management, you will be able to focus on your business.
Learn more about the CMR when importing used cars in this article.
If transportation is managed by the used car dealer, either by himself or by jockey, we can provide a Transport and Delivery Certificate (TDC). It is also recommended to prepare for the customs the certificate of transfer.
What we can help you with
At Arval Trading, thanks to our Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status, we are recognized as a certified partner, capable of managing customs procedures internally. Thus, we can help you by providing export customs formalities (EX). Our competent team is available for used car dealers if advise is needed.
Don't hesitate to contact your key account manager if you need explanations about the import procedures.
Register today and start your journey with Arval Trading.
Conclusion
Successful import of used cars around the Europe requires meticulous attention to the documentation. For used car professionals, a good knowledge of these administrative procedures will make this process smoother. Clear understanding of what and when certain things should be done will help to pass customs smoothly avoiding delays and follow European regulations.
