Differences between domestic and EU vehicle transportation

The transportation of vehicles within Germany differs significantly from a cross-border transfer within the EU. While domestic transport primarily focuses on organizational issues such as the choice of carrier, insurance and scheduling, there are also numerous legal and formal aspects when it comes to EU cars in Germany. These include customs formalities (for non-EU countries), technical inspections and, above all, the necessary steps for registering EU vehicles in Germany.

Registering an EU car in Germany – what do I need to consider?

Anyone transferring a vehicle from another EU country to Germany must register it correctly as part of the EU car registration process in Germany. It does not matter whether it is a new car directly from the dealer or a used EU vehicle registered in Germany – registration at the relevant road traffic office is always mandatory.

The authority first checks whether the vehicle meets the technical and legal requirements for road traffic in Germany. The EU Certificate of Conformity (COC document), which confirms that the vehicle complies with EU standards, is particularly important here. If this document is not available, individual approval by TÜV or DEKRA may be necessary:

• Purchase contract or invoice, as proof of purchase;
• foreign vehicle documents (registration certificate part I & II or their equivalent);
• EU Certificate of Conformity (COC paper) or technical report;
• If applicable, proof of the general inspection (HU) in Germany;
• ID card or passport of the vehicle owner;
• Electronic insurance confirmation (eVB number).

An EU car can only be registered in Germany once these documents have been submitted. As a rule, German license plates are then issued and the owner receives a registration certificate part I and II.

For used vehicles, an MOT in Germany is often required, even if a valid MOT exists in the country of origin. Without a COC document, the process is more time-consuming and cost-intensive, as a full technical inspection is required. Depending on the vehicle type and emissions standard, additional documents such as proof of emissions values may be required.

This makes it clear that registering an EU car in Germany is not a purely formal act, but a process that requires careful preparation. Gathering all documents at an early stage saves time and unnecessary additional costs.

Registering an EU vehicle in Germany step by step

Registering an EU vehicle in Germany follows a clear procedure:

• Technical inspection. If no COC document is available, an individual inspection by TÜV or DEKRA is required.
• Proof of tax liability. Registration with the relevant tax office for vehicle tax.
• Insurance cover. Taking out liability insurance with eVB number.
• Dealing with the authorities. Submission of all documents to the road traffic office.
• License plate allocation. Receiving the German license plates and registration certificate.

This makes the process considerably different from purely domestic transportation, where only a change of owner is required at the registration office.

Registering used EU vehicles – differences to new vehicles

Special attention must be paid to registering used EU vehicles in Germany. While new cars often have a valid COC document and are therefore easier to register, it can be more complicated for used cars. Special features of used vehicles:

• Technical inspection is often mandatory, especially if conversions have been carried out’
• Proof of the last general inspection in the country of origin is required;
• more effort required for documentation (e.g. missing documents, complete vehicle history).

This means that the time and costs involved in registering a used EU vehicle in Germany are usually higher than for a new vehicle.

Transport costs and formalities when importing an EU vehicle

In addition to registering the EU vehicle in Germany, transport costs and logistical challenges also play a major role in cross-border transportation. Here are some factors that influence the costs:

• Distance between country of origin and destination in Germany;
• Choice of means of transportation (open or closed van);
• Scope of insurance for damage or loss;
• any transfer license plates in the country of origin

Even if there are no customs duties within the EU, taxes, insurance and inspections must be taken into account.

Tips for freight forwarders for cross-border transportation

Haulage companies that regularly transport vehicles from EU countries to Germany benefit from a few tried and tested strategies:

• Early document checks. Missing documents can delay the entire process.
• Knowledge of the registration rules. Different EU countries have different requirements for vehicle documents.
• Specialized transport solutions. Closed car transporters offer more security for high-value vehicles.
• Cost transparency. Customers should be informed in advance about additional costs (e.g. technical inspections).

This avoids delays and unnecessary costs while ensuring a smooth import process.

The difference between a purely domestic transport and an EU-wide vehicle transport lies primarily in the bureaucratic effort involved. Anyone wishing to register an EU car in Germany must complete additional formalities, first and foremost the registration of EU vehicles in Germany. Thorough preparation is particularly important for used EU vehicles in order to save time and money.