Are you looking to ship a car to Spain and feeling overwhelmed by the process? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of how to ship a car to Spain, covering various methods, customs procedures, taxes, and other essential details to make your international vehicle relocation a breeze.
Choose the Right Shipping Method:
When you ship a car to Spain, you have two primary options: Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) and Container shipping. Here’s an overview of each method:
- RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off):
– RORO is a cost-effective method.
– Vehicles are driven onto the ship and secured in a designated area.
– Your car should be operable, and you won’t be allowed to pack personal items inside.
– It’s suitable for most standard vehicles.
- Container Shipping:
– Offers greater protection for your vehicle as it’s loaded into a secure container.
– You can ship personal belongings along with your car.
– Suitable for valuable or classic cars.
– Choose between a 20-foot or 40-foot container, depending on your needs.
UK Export Customs to Ship a Car:
Before your car can leave the United Kingdom, you’ll need to complete the following export customs procedures:
Notify HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) using the Vehicle Movement Notification (VMN) system.
Ensure you have the original vehicle registration documents and a valid MOT certificate.
Cancel your UK road tax and get a refund if applicable.
Obtain an Export License for certain types of vehicles (e.g., military vehicles).
Import Customs in Spain to Ship a Car:
Upon arrival in Spain, you’ll need to navigate the import customs process, including:
Present your Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, as well as the commercial invoice and packing list.
Pay import duties, taxes, and fees. Spain levies a Value Added Tax (VAT) and a registration tax based on the vehicle’s value and emissions.
Register your vehicle with the Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT).
Ensure your car complies with Spanish regulations, such as emissions and safety standards.
Taxes and Duties in Spain:
Before you choose to Ship a Car to Spain, it is important you are aware of the import destination charges that will apply:
Value Added Tax (VAT): As of my knowledge cutoff date in 2022, the standard VAT rate in Spain is 21%. When importing a vehicle, you’ll be required to pay this tax based on the car’s customs value.
Registration Tax: Spain also imposes a registration tax based on your vehicle’s CO2 emissions. The rate can vary, but it’s generally higher for cars with higher emissions.
Import Paperwork Required:
To successfully ship a car into Spain, you’ll need a variety of documents. These include:
Bill of Lading or Airway Bill.
Commercial invoice.
Packing list.
Passport or ID.
Proof of vehicle ownership and title.
Certificate of Conformity or a European Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for EU-made vehicles.
Spanish customs declaration forms.
Vehicle Age Restrictions in Spain:
Spain has specific regulations regarding the import of older vehicles. As of my last knowledge update in 2022, vehicles older than 30 years may be classified as “classic” and could be exempt from some emissions and safety requirements. However, for vehicles not meeting this age threshold, compliance with modern standards may be necessary.
To ship a car to Spain involves multiple steps, from choosing the right shipping method to navigating customs and paying taxes and duties. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process to help you make informed decisions and ensure a smooth journey to ship a car into Spain. Keep in mind that regulations and procedures may change, so it’s essential to verify the latest requirements with the relevant authorities before embarking on your journey. Safe travels!