The ABCs Of Importing A Car From The EU | #cp

Back in the 1990s, thousands of UK motorists turned to the European car markets due to significantly cheaper costs. Regulations on parallel pricing have seen the trend become far less common. But there are still several situations that may call for this approach. Particularly on the used car marketplace.


Maybe you’ve found a rare car model that you couldn’t locate in the UK. Or perhaps it’s still cheaper to import the car from mainland Europe. As a first-time importer, the process can feel daunting. Thankfully, you just have to remember your ABCs.
Assurances

There are many potential benefits to be gained from buying on the continent. However, it’s important to remember that dealing with international dealers can serve up a few different challenges. If you’re not suitably prepared, you may encounter a lot of hassle.

First and foremost, you need to check the situation regarding the warranty of the vehicle. Dealers will usually honour the warranty, but it could be a shorter agreement than those found with UK-bought cars. You need written assurances when importing the car. Otherwise, disagreements following vehicle faults can cost a lot of time and money to fix.

Aside from protecting yourself on a financial level, this step will have a significant impact on your peace of mind. This is undoubtedly one of the most compelling reasons to give this aspect the attention it deserves.

Budgets

If you are importing a car from the EU, it’s likely that money is the main incentive. Therefore, you need to take a responsible approach to this aspect. After all, you cannot set a winning example to the kids unless they can see that you practice what you preach. Take the time to sit down and confirm how much you will spend. Do not let your love of a vehicle encourage overspending.

Image by loufre from Pixabay
In addition to knowing your budget, you must be sure to prevent hidden costs. Be sure to gain confirmation of the delivery costs, handling costs, and currency conversion costs involved in getting the car to your door. This heightened sense of organisation keeps you in control. Moreover, avoiding unwanted hidden costs allows you to love the vehicle from day one

Condition

The biggest concern facing UK importers revolves around the condition of the vehicle. This was rarely an issue when EU imports were brand new motors. Nowadays, though, the popularity of used vehicles should be a slight cause for concern. Still, with the right steps, you have nout to fear.

One of the great things about modern tech is that you can see the car in detail. Rather than settling for videos, you can use videocalls to see the vehicle and inspect under the bonnet. Resources like this Dutch car damage history checker will give further unbiased insight into the vehicle. This lets you know exactly what you’re buying.

Another option is to contact a mechanic in the area you’re buying the car from. Their independent reviews of the vehicle should give you the same level of confidence as purchasing a car in the UK. If all else fails, take a flight.

*This post was written in collaboration with a third party, the words expressed are my own*

Karl Young

Part-time daddy and lifestyle blogger. Father of 2 boys under 2. Golfer, scare-fan, tea-lover, traveller, squash and poker player. I write on the @HuffPostUK http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/karl-young/

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