Bonjour lecteurs! A friend of mine is soon to move to France and they were asking me for advices regarding their car. Shipping a Car to France vs Buying: What’s Best? Well, question intéressante! I had a look online and it can actually end up being a daunting task. Not only you will have immediate expenses but you might also end dealing with hidden fees, intricate paperwork, and strict EU vehicle regulations that that might complicate your transition. So as I often get questions related to France (I wonder why?!), I looked into it and put together this mini guide for you.
Shipping your car to France can end up being quite pricey because of import taxes, registration fees, and potential modifications needed for compliance. However, you could also purchase a French one as it might turn more convenient, especially if you plan to stay long-term. Each situation est unique.
Purchasing vs. Importing to France
Whether you decide to purchase a car in France or import one from the UK is not a straightforward decision.
But it’s pretty clear that if you buy one vehicle in France, it might be a bit simper. Indeed, you’ll instantly comply with local laws and regulations, potentially making insurance and maintenance procedures easier. En plus, it will reduce complex paperwork using some key vocabulary you might not grasp.
Un autre avantage? A vehicle bought locally will be easier to maintain, especially when specific parts are needed. And with your French motor, you will automatically adhere to emission standards and safety regulations set forth by European authorities.
But your current car might have a sentimental value or specific features that may not be readily available in the local market. France allows you to bring your existing vehicle along, so it’s up to you.
Cost of Shipping a Car
The cost of shipping a car to France from the UK depends on several points such as the car’s model, the route or if you need additional services. Prices start at around £500, plus VAT.
On top of it, you will need to add an insurance for the transit, which will add to the overall cost.
When considering the expenses involved in international car shipping, it’s also important to take into account additional fees such as port handling fees in France, which can range between €200 to €600 depending on the specific port of arrival. Et oui, you’re barely arrived that you will need to pay taxes…
Each port has its own handling fees, so you have to rechercher yours to work out the total coast of shipping.
Personnellement, I would opt for a reputable company that specialise in international car shipping. Par exemple, Schumacher Cargo is known for providing reliable and efficient international car shipping services.
Taxes and Registration Details
Bringing your car to France? Get ready for some paperwork! We love this one in my country…
You will start with the VAT which amounts to a hefty 20% of the vehicle’s current market value. Par exemple, if you import a car worth £30000, you’ll need to pay an additional £6000 in VAT… and you might even pay customs duties on top!
Once on the land, you need to register the car. First, you need a certificat de conformité to prove that your vehicle meets French safety standards and environmental regulations and you will also need to take a MOT. You can’t drive your car without one.
We’re talking between €200 to €800 at least to start with. I would also check if your car is subject to the eco-tax in France if you have higher emissions…
Too many problèmes already? Then consider buying a Frenchie car 🙂
Types of Cars Available
The French automotive market offers a unique selection of cars, which differ quite a bit from here.
In France, you’ll notice a higher number of smaller, more fuel-efficient models such as the Renault Clio and Peugeot 208. C’est un classique! My mum has one. It’s cheaper and it’s easier to manoeuvre.
But if you fancy something a bit more luxueux, European brands such as Mercedes Benz and BMW are très populaires too in France as they offer such a great features with adaptive cruise control or even parking assistance systems.
Une petite note before you choose a specific model. Think about your lifestyle and driving needs in France. If you move to the city, I would totally embrace the Peugeot or Clio options as they are more compact and easier to park etc, especially in a ville historique with narrow streets.
Sourcing Cars for Purchase or Shipping
Brands like Peugeot, Citroën, and Renault are prominent figures in the French automotive industry, providing various vehicle models with diverse features to cater to different preferences and needs.
You will not struggle to find a dealer wherever you are.
However, if you’re contemplating importing a car from another country, I would check first that you will be able to get it fixed if any issue.
Many companies can help you with this, providing tailored solutions for shipping vehicles across borders. Their expertise will help you navigate potential obstacles and ensure a smoother process overall.
Evaluate The Overall Price
So shipping a car to France or buying a brand new Frenchie model? To make your décision finale, it’s crucial to consider the total cost involved in either option so that it matches your budget and needs.
Car shipping websites often feature helpful tools like cost calculators that provide estimates for shipping expenses. Simply enter you vehicle size, the distance and the type of transport et voilà!
And if you decide to purchase a French car, I would go to different dealerships and see what packages they offer (some offer a maintenance service)
While bringing your own vehicle offers familiarity and comfort, you actually come across many barriers once on land: le language, but also some extra hidden costs that might come down the line. Oh and that goes without having to drive on the other side of the road…
So what would you be more tempted to do? Shipping a Car to France vs Buying. What’s the best option for you? What part of France would you love to move to? I hope this will be helpful if you decide to go for it.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.
