Ship Cars To & From Netherlands: Complete Car Import/Export Guide

Shipping cars between the United States and the Netherlands involves navigating international logistics, customs regulations, and finding the most cost-effective transport solutions. Since 2007, West Coast Shipping has successfully transported tens of thousands of vehicles to Rotterdam from locations throughout the US, developing streamlined processes for both individual and commercial shipments. Whether you're importing a cherished classic car, exporting a modern vehicle, or managing a dealer fleet, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about international car shipping with the Netherlands.

Why the Netherlands is a Prime Hub for International Car Shipping

The Netherlands stands as Europe's gateway for international vehicle logistics, offering significant advantages for both importers and exporters. Rotterdam, Europe's largest port, is strategically positioned to serve as a distribution hub for the entire European continent.

Strategic Port Location

Rotterdam's port is one of the most efficient and technologically advanced shipping facilities in the world. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Rhine River provides direct access to Germany, France, Switzerland, and other central European markets. This makes it the ideal entry point for vehicles destined throughout the continent.

Cost-Effective Import Destination

Car shipping to the Netherlands is surprisingly affordable. Rates range from $1,000 when shipping out of New York, and $1,800 when shipping from California. The port of Rotterdam is one of the cheapest ports in Europe to ship cars to, making it an economical choice for importers and dealers looking to minimize logistics costs.

Advanced Port Technology

Rotterdam's port features some of the most advanced automated cargo handling systems in the world. Their container crane system averages roughly twice the speed of conventional systems, dramatically reducing loading and unloading times. This efficiency translates to faster processing and reduced demurrage charges for your vehicles.

EU Distribution Advantages

Once a vehicle arrives in the Netherlands, it can be transported throughout the European Union without additional customs procedures. This "single market" advantage makes Rotterdam an excellent hub for businesses distributing vehicles to multiple European countries, supported by excellent road transport infrastructure connecting to all major European markets.

Overview of Shipping Methods for Car Transport to the Netherlands

Several shipping methods are available when transporting vehicles between the US and the Netherlands, each with its own advantages, costs, and timelines.

Container Shipping

Container shipping is the most popular method for transporting vehicles to the Netherlands, offering excellent protection from the elements and secure handling.

Consolidated Container Shipping

West Coast Shipping's consolidated container service allows multiple vehicles to share container space, significantly reducing costs. This service operates weekly from California, Florida, and New Jersey, offering savings of up to 50% compared to dedicated containers. Consolidated shipping is ideal for standard-sized vehicles when delivery timing has some flexibility.

Dedicated Container Shipping

For high-value cars, luxury vehicles, or when maximum security is required, dedicated 20ft or 40ft containers provide exclusive space for your vehicles. A 20-foot container typically fits one or two cars, while a 40-foot container can accommodate up to four standard-sized vehicles. This method offers the highest level of protection and security throughout transit.

RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping

RoRo vessels are specially designed ships that function like floating parking garages. Vehicles are driven directly onto the vessel at the departure port and driven off upon arrival.

RoRo shipping requires vehicles to be operational and empty of personal belongings. While generally more cost-effective than container shipping, this method exposes vehicles to the elements. RoRo shipping rates typically range from $900 - $2,000 per vehicle, depending on size and destination.

Air Freight

For time-sensitive shipments or extremely valuable vehicles, air freight provides the fastest transit times—just 3-10 days from door to door, significantly faster than ocean shipping. While considerably more expensive than sea transport, air freight offers unmatched speed for urgent deliveries or high-value vehicles that need to arrive quickly.

Shipping Method Comparison

Importing vehicles from the USA to the Netherlands follows a structured process handled expertly by West Coast Shipping's logistics team:

1. Initial Consultation and Quote

Begin by receiving an instant rate using our car shipping calculator or contacting our specialized team for personalized guidance. We'll discuss your specific needs, vehicle details, and preferred shipping methods to determine the optimal solution.

2. Vehicle Collection

West Coast Shipping offers nationwide vehicle collection from any US location, including private residences, dealerships, and auction houses. Our team arranges secure transport to our export facilities in California, Florida, or New Jersey.

3. Export Preparation

Once at our facility, your vehicle undergoes thorough inspection and documentation. We handle all necessary US export paperwork, including customs forms and shipping arrangements.

4. Ocean Transit

Your vehicle is carefully loaded into a shipping container or onto a RoRo vessel, securing it for the transatlantic journey. Container shipments are tracked throughout transit, with typical journey times of 14 days from the East Coast or 30 days from the West Coast.

5. Dutch Customs Clearance

Upon arrival in Rotterdam, our team manages all customs formalities. For vehicles over 30 years old, there is 0% import duty (though 9% VAT still applies). Modern vehicles face different duty rates, which we calculate and handle on your behalf.

6. Compliance and Registration

If required, your vehicle will undergo inspection by the RDW (Dutch Vehicle Authority) to ensure compliance with Dutch and EU regulations. This may include verification of technical specifications, lighting, and safety features.

7. Final Delivery

Once cleared through customs and compliance checks, your vehicle is delivered to your specified location anywhere in the Netherlands. Our door-to-door service ensures a seamless experience from origin to destination.

Step-by-Step Export Process: Netherlands to USA

Exporting vehicles from the Netherlands to the USA follows a similar structured approach:

1. Initial Consultation and Documentation

The export process begins with gathering proper documentation, including the vehicle's registration certificate, purchase invoice, and export declaration forms.

2. Vehicle Collection in the Netherlands

Our team collects vehicles from anywhere in the Netherlands, transporting them to our partner facilities near Rotterdam for export preparation.

3. Dutch Export Clearance

We handle all Dutch export procedures and documentation, preparing the vehicle for international shipping in compliance with both Dutch and US regulations.

4. Ocean Transit to USA

Vehicles are loaded into containers or onto RoRo vessels for the transatlantic journey to the United States. Transit times typically range from 10-14 days to the East Coast and 30+ days to the West Coast.

5. US Customs Clearance

Upon arrival in the US, our team manages all customs formalities, including EPA and DOT compliance for vehicles under 25 years old. For classic vehicles over 25 years old, exemptions typically apply to these regulations.

6. Final Delivery in the USA

Once cleared, vehicles are delivered to your specified US location, completing the door-to-door service with the same attention to detail that characterizes all West Coast Shipping operations.

Documentation Requirements for Dutch Car Shipping

Proper documentation is essential for smooth customs clearance when shipping vehicles between the USA and the Netherlands.

Vehicle Documentation

• Original vehicle title

• Bill of sale

• Purchase invoice

• Insurance certificates (if applicable)

• Export license (if required)

Personal Identification

• Passport copy

• Power of attorney for shipping

• Import declaration forms

Customs Clearance Documents

• Original Bill of Lading

• Foreign Registration or US Title

• Documentation showing vehicle age

• Emissions compliance paperwork (for vehicles under 25 years old)

Age-Based Requirements

• Vehicles under 25 years: Must meet EU emissions and safety standards

• Vehicles 25+ years: Exempt from most technical regulations if unmodified

• Classic cars 30+ years: Eligible for 0% import duty (but still subject to 9% VAT)

For international residents moving to the Netherlands with their vehicles, simplified procedures may apply under household effects regulations, potentially exempting them from import duties and taxes.

Understanding Costs, Duties, and Taxes

The total cost of shipping a car to or from the Netherlands includes several components beyond the base shipping rate.

Base Shipping Costs

• East Coast (NY/NJ) to Rotterdam: Starting from $1,000

• West Coast (CA) to Rotterdam: Starting from $1,800

• Consolidated shipping offers savings up to 50% compared to dedicated containers

Import Duties and Taxes for Cars Entering the Netherlands

• Import Duty: 0% for classic cars over 30 years old; 10% for most modern vehicles

• VAT: 9% (calculated on purchase value + transport costs)

• Additional costs: Transport, insurance, registration, and RDW inspection

Example Calculation

For a classic car valued at €26,550 with €3,200 in transport/insurance costs:

• Total Value for VAT Calculation: €29,750

• VAT Due: €2,677.50

Import Duties and Taxes for Cars Entering the USA

• Import Duty: 2.5% for cars, 25% for trucks (Chicken Tax)

• No VAT in the USA, but state sales tax may apply depending on the destination state

• Additional fees: Customs processing, destination handling, inland transportation

Additional Costs to Consider

• Vehicle Collection: Fees vary by pickup location

• Insurance: Optional Cargo Damage Protection available

• Registration: Costs for registering the vehicle in the destination country

• Modifications: Potential costs to meet local regulations (headlights, emissions, etc.)

Regulations and Compliance for Vehicle Imports to the Netherlands

Navigating Dutch and EU vehicle regulations is critical for successful importation.

EU and Dutch Vehicle Standards

Vehicles imported into the Netherlands must comply with European regulations regarding emissions, safety features, and technical specifications. These requirements vary based on the vehicle's age and type.

Age-Based Compliance Categories

1. Modern Vehicles (Under 25 years): Must fully comply with current EU emissions and safety standards. This often requires significant modifications for US-spec vehicles.

2. Collector Vehicles (25-30 years): Benefit from relaxed technical regulations while still subject to standard import duties.

3. Classic Vehicles (30+ years): Enjoy both simplified technical requirements and duty-free import status (though still subject to 9% VAT).

Technical Modifications for Compliance

Vehicles imported from the USA often require modifications to meet Dutch standards:

• Lighting changes (repositioning city lights or turn signals)

• Speedometer adjustments (adding km/h readings)

• Emissions equipment modifications

• Safety feature adaptations

Registration Process in the Netherlands

Once your vehicle arrives in the Netherlands, it must be properly registered before it can be driven on public roads:

1. RDW Inspection: The Dutch Vehicle Authority inspects the vehicle for compliance with Dutch and EU regulations.

2. APK Inspection: A periodic vehicle inspection ensures roadworthiness (vehicles 50+ years old are exempt).

3. Registration: After passing inspections, you'll receive Dutch registration documents and can apply for license plates.

4. Insurance: Mandatory third-party liability insurance (WA verzekering) is required.

Temporary Import Options

For temporary visitors or those not permanently importing a vehicle, temporary import procedures allow vehicles to remain in the Netherlands for up to one year without full registration. This requires:

• Valid registration in the country of origin

• International insurance coverage (green insurance card)

• Temporary import documentation

Vehicle Preparation and Protection

Proper preparation is essential for safe international transport of your vehicle.

Pre-Shipping Inspection and Preparation

• Document existing damage with detailed photographs

• Clean the vehicle thoroughly (especially the undercarriage)

• Ensure the gas tank is no more than 1/4 full

• Disable alarm systems

• Remove personal belongings and detachable items

• Check tire pressure and battery condition

Cargo Protection Options

Most standard auto insurance policies don't cover international shipping. West Coast Shipping offers optional Cargo Damage Protection for comprehensive coverage during transit.

Without Cargo Damage Protection, liability is limited to $500 per the Carriage of Goods at Sea Act. For valuable vehicles, full coverage is strongly recommended.

Security During Transit

Our container shipping method offers maximum security, with vehicles sealed inside metal containers throughout the journey. Tracking systems provide updates on your vehicle's location and status during transit.

Case Studies: Successful Netherlands Car Shipping

Classic American Muscle to Rotterdam

A client shipped a restored 1969 Ford Mustang from California to the Netherlands using our consolidated container service. Benefiting from the 30+ year vehicle exemption, the car entered the Netherlands duty-free, with the client only paying the 9% VAT. Our team handled all documentation, customs clearance, and arranged for the necessary lighting modifications to meet EU standards. The entire process, from pickup in California to delivery in Amsterdam, took 32 days.

Modern Luxury Vehicle Export

A Dutch client relocating to New York contracted us to ship their 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class from Rotterdam to the East Coast. Using a dedicated container for maximum protection, the vehicle was collected from their home in Utrecht, processed through Dutch customs, and shipped to our New Jersey facility. After handling all US customs formalities, including EPA and DOT compliance, we delivered the vehicle to the client's new residence in Manhattan. The door-to-door process was completed in 18 days.

Dealer Fleet Shipment

A US classic car dealer shipping a collection of five American classics to a Rotterdam showroom utilized our wholesale container shipping service. By booking two consolidated containers, they achieved significant cost savings while ensuring all vehicles arrived safely. Our team handled the entire process, from collecting vehicles across three states to managing Dutch customs clearance and coordinating delivery to their European facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to ship a car to the Netherlands?

Car shipping to the Netherlands is surprisingly affordable. Rates range from $1,000 when shipping out of New York, and $1,800 when shipping from California. The port of Rotterdam is one of the cheapest ports in Europe to ship cars to. Additional costs include VAT (9%), any applicable import duties, and inland transportation.

How long does shipping take from the USA to the Netherlands?

Typical transit times are:

• From East Coast: 14 days

• From West Coast: 30 days

• Additional 2-3 days for customs clearance

What shipping methods are available?

We offer three primary shipping options:

• Container shipping (consolidated or dedicated)

• RoRo shipping for operational vehicles

• Air freight for express delivery

What documents are required?

Required documents include:

• Original vehicle title

• Bill of sale

• Import declaration forms

• Proof of ownership

International residents also need passport copies and power of attorney.

Are there special requirements for classic cars?

Cars over 30 years old benefit from duty-free import status in the Netherlands (though 9% VAT still applies) and are exempt from many modern compliance requirements if kept in original condition.

Is insurance available for my vehicle during shipping?

Yes, optional Cargo Damage Protection is available. Without it, liability is limited to $500 per the Carriage of Goods at Sea Act.

Can I ship a non-running vehicle?

Yes, container shipping accommodates non-running vehicles. RoRo shipping requires vehicles to be operational.

Getting Started with Your Vehicle Shipment

Shipping your vehicle between the USA and the Netherlands is straightforward with West Coast Shipping's expert guidance. To begin:

1. Get an Instant Quote: Use our car shipping calculator to receive immediate pricing.

2. Consult with Our Experts: Contact our specialized team to discuss your specific needs and requirements.

3. Prepare Your Documentation: Gather the necessary paperwork with our team's guidance.

4. Schedule Your Shipment: Choose your preferred shipping method and timing.

From there, we handle every aspect of the international shipping process, providing updates throughout and ensuring your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.

With over 20 years of experience in international vehicle shipping and tens of thousands of successful deliveries, West Coast Shipping offers unmatched expertise in transporting vehicles between the USA and the Netherlands. Our comprehensive services, transparent pricing, and dedication to customer satisfaction make us the preferred partner for individual importers, collectors, dealers, and commercial fleets.

Begin your international car shipping journey today by requesting a personalized quote or contact our specialized team to discuss your unique requirements.