The process of importing a car from Germany can seem complicated, but with the right information and following the correct steps, everything will be simpler. This article details how to carry out the importation of German vehicles into Andorra.
Mar 6, 2024
Before starting the import process, it is necessary to consider some important aspects:
Research the German car market to understand the differences between the local offering and Germany's offering.
Establish a spending limit to avoid excessive expenses during the process.
Contact specialists or import companies that can advise and guide in the process of searching for and purchasing a vehicle in Germany.
Understand the relevant legislations in both Germany and Andorra to be sure that we comply with all legal requirements.
There are several options available for finding and purchasing a car in Germany, which include:
Private market: It's possible to find a wide variety of vehicles for sale by private individuals in Germany, which allows you to negotiate directly with the owner and get a better price. However, it's also important to be cautious and conduct thorough research to make sure the vehicle has no hidden problems or a negative history.
Second-hand dealerships: Second-hand car dealerships also offer a broad selection of vehicles, in addition to certain warranties and financing facilities. However, prices are usually higher than in private sales.
Vehicle auctions: Participating in car auctions may result in good discounts, but also requires more knowledge and experience in identifying and evaluating vehicles.
There are various websites that facilitate the search for cars on sale in Germany, such as Mobile.de or AutoScout24. It is important to use filters in the searches to quickly find the vehicles that meet our specific needs and requirements.
Before acquiring a car in Germany, it is crucial to check its condition and functioning:
Contact the seller: Get as much information as possible about the car directly from the seller, including maintenance performed, the condition of important parts, tire wear, etc.
Check the vehicle's history: Ask the seller for the car's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and check its history on specialized websites, such as CARFAX or AutoCheck. These reports reveal crucial details such as accidents, thefts, changes of ownership, and mileage.
Carry out a technical inspection: If possible, do a technical inspection of the vehicle before purchasing to make sure it has no hidden mechanical or aesthetic problems. Also, request a report of the last technical vehicle inspection (TÜV) done in Germany.
Once we find the right vehicle and confirm its status, we must close the purchase and manage its transport to Andorra:
Agree on the final price with the seller and specify the payment conditions.
Obtain all necessary documentation for importation, including: purchase invoice, vehicle registration document (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I und II) and German TÜV report (Hauptuntersuchung).
Hire the services of an international transport company to move the vehicle to Andorra. It is important to have the appropriate insurance coverage during transport.
After receiving the vehicle in Andorran territory, there are various procedures to be carried out with customs and the general traffic department to obtain the definitive license plate:
Import declaration: Go to the customs office of Andorra and present the vehicle's import declaration, accompanied by the original documentation. Taxes and customs duties may have to be paid based on the value and characteristics of the car.
Technical inspection in Andorra (ITV): Go through the technical inspection at an authorized center to obtain the specific conformity certificate for Andorra.
Request the definitive registration: Submit all required documentation to the general traffic department, including the German and Andorran technical reports, original invoice, and customs import declaration. Once the definitive registration is granted, the plates must be installed on the car.
When importing a car from Germany to Andorra, it will also be necessary to plan other aspects such as:
Temporary insurance in Germany: You will need to take out temporary insurance in Germany valid for the time needed to transport the vehicle to Andorra.
Steering wheel conversion: Cars in Germany have left-hand drive, so you may need to adapt the steering wheel to the other side to comply with Andorran traffic regulations.
Special approvals: If the imported vehicle has customization elements or mechanical modifications, it may be necessary to obtain special approvals to comply with safety and emissions regulations in Andorra.
With this complete guide, you can carry out the importation of a car from Germany to Andorra in the simplest and most efficient way possible. All that's left is to enjoy the new vehicle and freely travel the roads of this beautiful Pyrenean country.
