Guide On Buying A Car In Germany for Export
Are you an expat or foreigner eyeing a used car? Maybe you’re searching for a reliable source online or a trustworthy car dealer in Germany. In this guide on buying a car in Germany for export, we’ll discuss the process for you.
- To buy a car in Germany, you need to do the following:
- Choose Your Export Car
- Purchase Your Car
- Get Car Insurance
- Get Export Plates
- Dealing with Export and Customs
Discover the ins and outs of German cars, from selecting the perfect one to understanding car prices and sales. We’ll talk about car insurance, customs procedures, and export plates. Whether you’re in the market for a new or used car, this blog covers you.
Related article: How Much Does a Used Car Cost in Germany? [2023]
5 Steps on Buying A Car in Germany
Many people buy cars in Germany for export because German cars are known for their quality. German engineering is a gift to the modern automotive industry, and German cars are often considered the best.
Mechanically, German cars are better than most, according to critics. deal for speed and comfort, these vehicles offer peace of mind with infrequent changes, averaging 200,000-250,000 miles with proper maintenance. That’s why many people often choose to buy even cheap used cars in Germany for export.
But how do you buy used cars for sale in Germany for export? The process is easy as long as you follow the necessary steps.
1. Choose Your Car for Export
To buy a car in Germany for export, the first step is to choose your export car. Germany offers a wide range of options, including new and used vehicles. It’s essential to carefully select the vehicle for export to ensure that it meets your requirements and budget.
You can explore cheap used cars in Germany for export, as well as check out used cars for sale in Germany for export at reputable car dealerships. By comparing car prices, you can make an informed decision while benefiting from the renowned quality and engineering of German cars.
Common Models of German Cars for Export
There are many common models of cars that are exported in Germany. Some of the most popular car models in Germany are the following:
Volkswagen Golf
You can find this one at any car dealership in Germany. The Volkswagen Golf is a versatile and iconic compact car that has captured the hearts of many drivers in Germany and worldwide.
Known for its exceptional build quality and timeless design, the Golf offers a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and practicality.
Here’s the cost of the Volkswagen Golf, according to ccarprice.com:
- New Volkswagen Golf Black Edition 2024: €37,497
- Used Volkswagen Golf 1.8 GL: €11,100
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a popular crossover SUV that combines the best of both worlds: the versatility of an SUV and the agility of a compact car. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and a wide array of tech features make it a fantastic choice for families and urban drivers alike.
Cost of the Volkswagen Tiguan, according to Autoscout24.com:
- Volkswagen Tiguan S 2023: €24,995.
- Used 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan for Sale in New Germany, MN: starting MSRP of $26,950.
Volkswagen T-Roc
The Volkswagen T-Roc is another crossover SUV from the Volkswagen lineup, offering a more compact and sportier alternative to the Tiguan. With its eye-catching design and customizable color options, it appeals to those looking for a more individualized driving experience.
Cost of Volkswagen T-Roc, according to Autoscount24.com:
- Volkswagen T-Roc LIFE (D9 Basic) 1.5 TSI OPF 150 M6: €25,559
- Volkswagen T-Roc 1.5 TSI: €18,940
Audi A4
The Audi A4 is a luxurious sedan that epitomizes German engineering and design. Renowned for its elegant aesthetics and refined interiors, the A4 offers a comfortable and quiet ride. With a range of powerful engine options, including performance-oriented models, it caters to drivers with a penchant for spirited driving.
Cost of Audi A4, according to theparking.eu:
- Audi A4 Avant 40 TDI S tronic: €43,000
- Audi A4 avant2.0: €33,870
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a symbol of luxury and prestige in the automotive world. Renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail, the C-Class offers a plush and comfortable ride.
With a choice of potent engines, it can cater to both those who appreciate a relaxed, refined drive and those who seek exhilarating performance.
Cost of Mercedes-Benz C-Class, according to ccarprice.com:
- Mercedes Benz C Class Convertible 2023: €53,815
- Used Mercedes-Benz C-Class cars in Germany: prices vary depending on the model, year, and mileage, ranging from €7,990 to €39,993
2. Purchase Your Car
When purchasing a car in Germany, whether you’re in the market for cheap used cars for export or new vehicles, the payment process is relatively straightforward.
As a foreigner, you don’t need to be a German resident, but you must have essential documents ready, such as the following:
- Passport or ID card
- Proof of address (like a utility bill)
- Driver’s license
- Proof of insurance
- Viable payment methods include cash, credit card, or bank transfer.
To pay for your chosen vehicle, you can visit local car sales or authorized dealerships of renowned car manufacturers in Germany. Once you’ve made your selection, you can complete the payment transaction. This may involve paying the car owner directly or the dealership, depending on where you purchase.
Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork when buying cars. This includes your car registration and license plates, typically handled at the vehicle registration office.
Do you need money to buy a car in Germany? Check this article: Best Car Loans in Germany in 2023
3. Get Car Insurance
Suppose you’re considering purchasing one of those cheap used cars in Germany for export or buying a car in Germany for export purposes. In that case, one crucial step you can’t overlook is getting car insurance.
In Germany, it’s not just a choice; it’s a legal requirement, and this holds for foreigners who purchase cars in Germany for export.
What Type of Insurance Do You Need?
When it comes to insuring a used car, a new car bought online, or a vehicle from a local car dealer, you need to have the appropriate insurance coverage in place.
Most institutions financing the purchase of a motor vehicle in Germany require some form of insurance, particularly if you’re looking into collision or comprehensive insurance.
The insurance cost in Germany depends on several factors, such as the car mileage, the condition of the vehicle owner, the insurance company, and vehicle title.
Third-party Liability Insurance
The minimum insurance requirement in Germany is third-party liability insurance, which is designed to cover damages or injuries caused to another car or person. This is mandatory for all vehicle owners in Germany, and you’ll need a car liability policy to complete the car registration process.
Whether you’re exploring the used car market, getting ready to register your new car, or searching for export license plates, car insurance is a must. Even if you plan to buy one of those cheap used cars in Germany for export, the rules remain the same.
According to studying-in-germany.org, the regular monthly price for this type of insurance varies between €3 to €6 on average, and the annual premium for third-party liability insurance in Germany will hardly reach €100.
Haftpflichtversicherung (Liability Insurance)
In the case of exporting vehicles, you may also need a special “Haftpflichtversicherung” (liability insurance) to comply with the legal requirements. It’s essential to have your insurance matters in order before you hit the road with your newly acquired vehicle.
Based on a report by simplegermany.com, the average annual premium for liability coverage in 2020 in Germany was about €258.
Car insurance recommendations
- CosmosDirekt is the most popular car insurance provider in Germany. It’s known for its low prices and good quality.
- Allianz – the largest car insurance provider.
Alternatively, you can use Verivox or Tarifcheck to compare car insurance prices in Germany.
4. Get Export Licence Plates
When buying cars in Germany for export, securing export plates is crucial. These temporary license plates enable legal road use during export.
Export plates are issued by the German vehicle registration office, known as the “Kraftfahrzeugzulassungsstelle.” They play a vital role in exporting vehicles, enabling you to transport your newly acquired car from the point of purchase to the port of exit.
These plates are particularly important if you’re eyeing those cheap used cars in Germany for export, ensuring that you can drive the vehicle to its onward destination.
Types of Plates in Germany
Temporary Plates
Temporary plates are suitable for transportation within Germany. In contrast, export plates are a requirement when the vehicle is destined to be transported abroad. These plates play a key role in the export process, and their number must be indicated in the export declaration.
The export plate must also be properly affixed to the vehicle to ensure compliance with regulations.
Export Plates
Whether purchasing a used or new car from a private seller, a car online, or a car dealer, export plates will prove invaluable, especially if you plan to buy a tax-free car in Germany for export. It’s essential to have your export plates in place before you set off on your journey to your home country with your newly acquired vehicle.
Note: Secure proper documentation for car imports/exports. Export plates facilitate legal transportation, ensuring a smooth process when bringing a car from Germany.
5. Deal with Export and Customs
When exporting a car purchased in Germany, there are essential considerations regarding export and customs:
- Formal Export Procedure: A formal export procedure is necessary, irrespective of the vehicle’s intended use, whether for personal or commercial purposes.
- Customs Declaration: When exporting a vehicle on its own wheels, you can declare it at the German customs office of exit, which is the point where the vehicle leaves the EU.
- Required Documentation: Essential documents include the sales contract, registration certificate, and invoices if there’s a transaction.
- Technical Requirements: Compliance with German legal and technical requirements is mandatory.
- Taxes and Fees: When exporting a car from outside the EU to Germany, you may incur import duties (10% of the car’s value) and VAT. Some cases might exempt you from these fees. You must also check if an imported car in your country is tax-free so that you can save money from the export service.
- Export Permit: Obtain an export permit for your own car. This step is necessary for the export service.
- Homologation/Conversion: Some vehicles may need modifications to meet German standards.
Ensure your vehicle complies with German requirements before importing it, and consider experienced shipping companies and risk insurance for the shipment.
Proper handling of export and customs procedures is vital when moving a car from Germany to another EU country or a non-EU destination.
Where to Buy A Brand New and Used Car in Germany?
In Germany, there are numerous options for buying brand-new and affordable used cars, making it an attractive destination for those purchasing vehicles for export. You can explore brand-new cars at official or authorized car dealerships.
For those seeking cheap used cars in Germany for export, a wide array of choices is available through reputable online and in-person car dealerships.
The German car market is known for its variety, quality, and reliability, making it a preferred destination for car buyers. Explore abundant options for new or used German cars. Find the vehicle that aligns with your preferences and export needs.
Local Car Dealer in Germany
Local Car Dealerships in Germany provide an array of options for buying brand-new and used cars, making it convenient for those interested in buying a car in Germany for export or personal use.
DAT AUTOHUS
DAT AUTOHUS is a notable used car dealership in Europe. They have a track record of over 250,000 car sales, and you can choose from nearly 3,000 cars at any given time.
Their branches in Bockel, Bremen, and Berlin offer a wide selection of cars conveniently organized by make and model. If you’re seeking cheap used cars in Germany for export, DAT AUTOHUS is a noteworthy choice.
BCA Germany
BCA Germany is Europe’s largest marketplace for commercial used car trade. However, you can also buy a new car from various car manufacturers and dealers. They provide comprehensive services to support customers in successfully buying a car in Germany, whether brand new or used.
They’re valuable resource for those in the market for new cars or high-quality used vehicles, making the car purchasing process more accessible and streamlined.
Websites To Buy Car Online
Are you planning to buy used cars in Germany for export? Check these websites:
- AutoScout24: AutoScout24 is one of the largest online marketplaces for cars in Europe, with over 2 million vehicles listed. They offer a wide range of used cars, including private and dealer listings, and you can search by make, model, price, and location.
- Mobile.de: Mobile.de is another popular online marketplace for cars in Germany, with over 1.4 million vehicles listed. They offer a wide range of used cars, including private and dealer listings, and you can search by make, model, price, and location.
- eBay Kleinanzeigen: eBay Kleinanzeigen is a platform for buying and selling used items, including cars. Although it doesn’t have an English version, it can be helpful since it provides all the needed information on vehicles and owners.
Final Thoughts About Buying a Car in Germany for Export
Buying a car in Germany for export can be a rewarding experience, as you can benefit from the quality and variety of German cars. However, it also requires careful planning and preparation, as you must follow certain rules and procedures to ensure a smooth legal export process.
In this blog, we have provided you with a comprehensive guide on buying a car in Germany for export, covering the steps and factors you need to consider before purchasing. We hope that this blog has been helpful and informative for you and that you can find the best car for your needs and budget.
If you want to learn more about buying a car in Germany for export, please click the links in the article. This will also help us keep this blog afloat and provide you with more useful information.
