Car search abroad

In 2019, the proud average price for a new car in Germany was 33,580 Euros. For used cars, the ADAC registered an average price of 18,377 Euros in the same fiscal year. Germans spend a relatively large amount of money on their individual mobility. In a study of seven European countries, only France, with an average price of 22,995 Euros per used car, was ahead of Germany. Italy was at the bottom of the statistics with 14,446 Euros. However, the age of the respective used cars was not taken into account in this statistic.

Cheaper new cars through re-imports

Depending on the manufacturer and model, it can certainly be worthwhile to look at neighboring countries when buying a car. Resourceful re-importers have long recognized the savings potential when they re-import new cars, which were produced (and calculated) for other EU countries, back to Germany via those countries and can offer them at significantly lower prices due to tax savings.

Searching for used cars on your own

Searching for used cars can also be made relatively easy through the internet. The common vehicle trading platforms also offer their services to sellers abroad, so that offers from other countries can also be displayed with the appropriate search settings. Especially for used cars from the mid-range and upper-class segments, it is said to be worthwhile to look at countries such as Denmark, Finland, Greece, Spain, Portugal, or the Netherlands.

What to consider when importing a car

To truly save money by importing a used vehicle and not be surprised by unplanned costs later, several things must be considered. For example, one should ensure before purchasing that the vehicle will be approved for registration in Germany. The necessary documents should definitely be requested from the seller or exporter beforehand. Abroad, product lines are generally adapted to the respective market. Thus, the equipment lines in different countries may meet different specifications. Engine performance and special equipment are possible deviations. Especially features that are weighted differently in countries and are costly are adapted to the target markets. Since not every country pays as much attention to emissions (pollutant output) and safety as Germany, the manufacturer might see a potential for savings and have brought the vehicle to market accordingly adapted. In this regard, one should also absolutely ensure whether TÜV inspectors might be stricter on some points than comparable authorities in the respective country of origin of the automobile, as otherwise costly retrofits might be necessary.

To avoid falling victim to potential scams, it can be helpful to find a professional partner (importer, trustee). Alternatively, one should thoroughly familiarize oneself with the respective vehicle and the general purchase circumstances. For example, the purchase contract is usually written in the seller’s language. This should either be fluently mastered, or the contract should be translated. The costs for the transfer should also be discussed with the potential service provider beforehand to avoid unpleasant surprises. Finally, on the day of purchase, all documents should be handed over completely. In addition to the standard original registration certificates, the service booklet, possibly the warranty card, the purchase contract, and all ignition keys, a “Certificate of Conformity” (CoC) should also be included in the documents. It ensures that the vehicle complies with European standards and can be registered. A subsequent check (e.g., at TÜV) is possible but expensive. However, for those who consider these points and include the respective costs in the calculation from the outset, one or the other bargain awaits abroad.