The Netherlands is one of the best choices in Europe for those who want to import a American classic car, 40 years old or more<\/strong>Automatic exemption from road tax (MRB) and a registration tax (BPM) that drops virtually to zero thanks to age-related discounts. For genuine classic cars, the Dutch tax framework is hard to beat.<\/p>\n But be warned: there is an obstacle that changes the equation \u2014 the RDW import inspection in Lelystad<\/strong>, Rigorous, expensive, and with long deadlines. This guide explains all the components, so you can make an informed decision.<\/p>\n Notice:<\/strong> the values indicated are 2026 indicators<\/em>. Tax rules and inspection fees change frequently. Always confirm with an authorized customs broker before making any purchase decision.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Importing a car directly from the USA to the Netherlands involves four layers of cost:<\/p>\n Same as the rest of the EU: 10 %<\/strong> For passenger cars (tariff code 8703). For classic cars classified as collector's items. (tariff code 9705 \u2014 vehicles \u2265 30 years old, state of origin, model out of production)<\/strong>, the rights descend to 0 %<\/strong>. This regime is a Community standard \u2014 it applies in the Netherlands exactly as in [the rest of the Netherlands]. Portugal<\/a> or in France<\/a>.<\/p>\n The standard Dutch VAT rate (BTW) is 21 %<\/strong>, calculated on the customs value plus duties. For vehicles classified under the NC 9705 collection regime, the rate applies. reduced from 9 %<\/strong> \u2014 a significant saving compared to the Portuguese VAT of 23 %.<\/p>\n BPM is the Dutch first registration tax, calculated based on CO\u2082 emissions or engine displacement. The key point for older vehicles is... afschrijving<\/strong> (Age-related discount): the older the car, the lower the calculation base. In classic cars 40+ years old, this discount is so high that the effective BPM It frequently falls to near zero.<\/strong>. It is one of the biggest attractions of the Dutch system for collectors.<\/p>\n The MRB is the annual circulation tax. Dutch law stipulates... automatic exemption<\/strong> for vehicles with 40 years or older<\/strong> (oldtimerstatus<\/em>): no exemption is required or special formalities need to be followed \u2014 it applies by law from the moment the car reaches that age. For a 1965 Mustang or a 1970 Chevrolet, the MRB is zero<\/strong>, Without bureaucracy.<\/p>\n The Netherlands clearly distinguishes between two categories for classic cars:<\/p>\n For an American classic car 40+ years old in original condition, the combination rights 0 % + BTW 9 % + BPM ~0 + MRB 0<\/strong> This makes the Netherlands one of the EU countries with the most favorable registration tax for classic cars.<\/p>\n All vehicles coming from outside the EU must pass through keuring<\/strong> (import inspection) by RDW (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer<\/em>), carried out at the facilities of Lelystad<\/strong>.<\/p>\n What you should know:<\/p>\n Practical conclusion:<\/strong> The inspection fee is the main factor that can make the Netherlands less competitive than it seems at first glance, especially for moderately priced cars where the inspection cost is too high.<\/p>\n In the Netherlands, a vehicle with the title salvage<\/strong> (damaged\/lost in the USA) he can<\/strong> receive registration \u2014 but with a restriction of movement<\/strong> The registration document indicates that the vehicle has been involved in an accident. This is not a full EU registration equivalent to a vehicle with no damage history.<\/p>\n What this means in practice:<\/p>\n Recommendation:<\/strong> Avoid salvage vehicles if the ultimate goal is resale in Portugal or another demanding European market.<\/p>\n Our analysis before each import:<\/strong> The ideal country of registration depends on the year, value, condition, and final destination of the car. In some cases, the Netherlands is the best option; in others, Belgium or France are more economical. We provide a complete simulation. before purchase<\/strong> - Contact Us<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Autozilla operates directly from California with a US dealer license. We analyze the ideal registration country for each vehicle \u2014 including the Netherlands \u2014 and handle all logistics and paperwork.<\/p>\n Contact us on WhatsApp<\/a><\/strong> For a free simulation, or see our current stock of American classics<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n
How Much Does it Cost to Enroll in School in the Netherlands?<\/h2>\n
1. Customs Duties (EU Customs)<\/h3>\n
2. By the way (Dutch VAT) \u2014 21 % or 9 %<\/h3>\n
3. BPM (registration tax)<\/h3>\n
4. MRB (annual circulation tax)<\/h3>\n
Classic Regime \/ Oldtimer<\/h2>\n
\n\n
\n \nVehicle age<\/th>\n Customs duties<\/th>\n By the way<\/th>\n BPM<\/th>\n Annual MRB<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n 30\u201339 years (NC 9705)<\/td>\n 0 %<\/td>\n 9 %<\/td>\n Partial discount<\/td>\n Due<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n 40+ years old (oldtimer)<\/td>\n 0 % (if NC 9705)<\/td>\n 9 % (if NC 9705)<\/td>\n ~0 \u20ac (maximum discount)<\/td>\n 0 \u20ac (automatic exemption)<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n Keuring RDW: The Inspection You Can't Ignore<\/h2>\n
\n
Salvage: Registration with Restrictions<\/h2>\n
\n
Netherlands vs Portugal: Is it worth it?<\/h2>\n
When the Netherlands makes sense<\/h3>\n
\n
When Portugal (or another EU country) might be preferable<\/h3>\n
\n
\n
Looking to import an American classic?<\/h2>\n