How to Import Cars From Germany

Importing Your Vehicle
1. Pay for the automobile you are purchasing either with cash, a credit card or a bank loan. For a loan, either a bank in your country of residence or in Germany can be used.
2. Verify that the vehicle you purchase meets your country's emissions standards. These vary by country and sometimes by state, as California has more stringent standards than the rest of the U.S., as of 2010. The European Union has standard car emission regulations that are the same for each member state.
3. Determine the import tariff. Germany is part of the Schengen area, a customs union that includes much of continental Europe. There are no import taxes for bringing a German-bought automobile into another Schengen country. Countries outside the Schengen area will likely charge an import tariff on German-bought cars.
4. Decide whether to bring your vehicle to your country by land or sea. Shipping rates vary, depending on where you are shipping the car. Depending on the distance, you may choose a ferry or cargo ship.
5. Register the car under your ownership with the local automobile authority when it reaches your country. You must bring the title as well as personal identification documents.