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How to Import a Car from Japan to the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a popular entry point for cars imported from Japan: Rotterdam is Europe's largest port and Dutch registration through the RDW is well established. Here is what to expect.

Last updated: · By Japonic Trade

Key facts

Customs duty

10% of customs value

VAT

21%

Other tax

BPM (registration tax, based on CO2 emissions) and annual motor vehicle tax

Registration

RDW approval, then registration (kenteken)

Step by step

  1. Buy and ship to a Dutch port. We win the car at auction or from our Stock Cars and ship it to Rotterdam or another Dutch port.
  2. Customs clearance. Pay 10% customs duty and 21% VAT on the customs value. Keep the export certificate, bill of lading and invoice.
  3. Pay BPM. Dutch BPM depends mainly on CO2 emissions and the car's age; it is calculated by the Belastingdienst.
  4. RDW inspection and approval. Most Japanese-market cars need an individual RDW inspection before they get Dutch registration.
  5. Register and insure. Once approved you receive the registration number (kenteken) and can insure and drive the car.

Duties, taxes and homologation

Cars imported from outside the EU normally pay the EU customs duty on passenger cars (10% of the customs value) plus VAT at your country's rate, and some countries add their own registration tax.

Japanese and Korean market cars usually have no EU certificate of conformity, so most need individual vehicle approval and a technical inspection before they can be registered.

Frequently asked questions

How much tax will I pay importing a car from Japan to the Netherlands?
Expect 10% customs duty and 21% VAT on the customs value, plus BPM, which depends on emissions and age. Ask us for a landed-cost estimate for a specific car.
Do I need an APK?
Dutch registration requires the RDW approval process; ask the RDW or a local importer service for the current requirements for your specific car.

Figures on this page are indicative and rates and rules change. Always confirm current duty, tax and approval requirements with your customs authority before you buy.

See what is available

Browse used cars from Japan in stock ready to ship, or learn how to read a Japanese auction sheet. Questions? Talk to us.

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