Complete Guide to Shipping Cars from Dubai to Europe

Shipping your vehicle from Dubai to Europe doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re relocating, selling, or simply want to enjoy your car in Europe, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about international car shipping.

Why Ship from Dubai?

Dubai has become a major hub for luxury and exotic vehicles, with many buyers seeking to import high-quality cars to European markets. The UAE’s tax-free status often means better prices, making car shipping an attractive option.

Shipping Methods Explained

Container Shipping

Container shipping offers maximum protection for your vehicle. Your car is loaded into a secure container, protecting it from weather and potential damage during transit. This method is ideal for luxury or classic vehicles.

RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping

RoRo shipping is more cost-effective, with vehicles driven directly onto the ship. While less expensive, this method offers less protection than container shipping.

Required Documentation

  • Original vehicle registration
  • Export permit from UAE
  • Bill of sale or purchase invoice
  • Passport copy
  • Insurance documents

Timeline and Costs

Typical shipping times range from 10-21 days depending on the destination port. Costs vary based on vehicle size, shipping method, and destination country.

Customs and Import Duties

Each European country has different import duty rates and VAT requirements. Generally, expect 10% import duty plus VAT ranging from 17-27% depending on the destination country.

Ready to ship your vehicle? Contact us for a personalized quote and let our experts handle the entire process for you.

Top 5 European Destinations for UAE Car Imports

Wondering where to ship your Dubai-purchased vehicle in Europe? Here are the most popular destinations for car imports from the UAE, each offering unique advantages for vehicle owners.

1. Germany – The Automotive Capital

Germany remains the top destination for car imports from Dubai. With excellent infrastructure, reasonable import duties (10% + 19% VAT), and a strong automotive culture, Germany offers ideal conditions for imported vehicles.

2. United Kingdom – Brexit Considerations

Despite Brexit, the UK continues to be popular for car imports. Import duty is 10% plus 20% VAT, with special considerations for EU-manufactured vehicles (only £50 duty).

3. Netherlands – Gateway to Europe

The Netherlands offers excellent shipping infrastructure with major ports like Rotterdam. Import costs are 10% duty plus 21% VAT, with efficient processing times.

4. France – Luxury Car Haven

France, particularly Paris and the French Riviera, attracts luxury car imports. The country offers 10% import duty plus 20% VAT, with sophisticated automotive markets.

5. Switzerland – Premium Destination

Switzerland offers the lowest import costs in Europe with just 4% import duty and 7.7% VAT. However, the process can be more complex due to non-EU status.

Need help choosing the best destination for your vehicle? Contact our experts for personalized advice based on your specific needs.

Door-to-Door Car Shipping: Complete Service Overview

Our door-to-door car shipping service provides the ultimate convenience for customers looking to transport their vehicles from Dubai to Europe without any hassle.

What is Door-to-Door Service?

Door-to-door car shipping means we handle every aspect of your vehicle transport, from pickup at your Dubai location to delivery at your specified European address.

Complete Service Package

  • Vehicle Collection: Professional pickup from your Dubai location
  • Export Documentation: All UAE export paperwork handled
  • International Shipping: Secure transport via container or RoRo
  • Customs Clearance: Complete European customs processing
  • Final Delivery: Direct delivery to your European address

Benefits of Door-to-Door Service

This service eliminates the need to coordinate with multiple providers, drive to ports, or arrange separate transport within Europe. Our team manages the entire process, providing updates at each stage.

Pricing and Timeline

Door-to-door service typically adds 3-5 days to standard shipping times but provides maximum convenience. Contact us for detailed pricing based on your specific pickup and delivery locations.

Get a quote for door-to-door service and experience hassle-free car shipping.

Container vs RoRo Shipping: Choosing the Right Method

Choosing between container shipping and RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping depends on your budget, timeline, and the level of protection your vehicle needs.

Container Shipping

Advantages:

  • Maximum protection from weather and theft
  • Can include personal items
  • Suitable for modified or lowered vehicles
  • Climate-controlled options available

Considerations:

  • Higher cost than RoRo
  • May require longer wait times for full containers

RoRo Shipping

Advantages:

  • More cost-effective option
  • Faster loading and unloading
  • More frequent sailing schedules
  • Suitable for standard vehicles

Considerations:

  • Vehicle exposed to weather during transport
  • No personal items allowed
  • Keys must be surrendered to ship operators

Making the Right Choice

For luxury, classic, or modified vehicles, container shipping provides better protection. For standard vehicles where budget is a primary concern, RoRo offers excellent value.

Unsure which method is best for your vehicle? Consult with our shipping experts for personalized recommendations.

Understanding Car Import Duties and VAT in Europe

Import duties and VAT can significantly impact the total cost of shipping your car from Dubai to Europe. Understanding these costs upfront helps you budget accurately and choose the most cost-effective destination.

How Import Duties Work

Import duty is calculated as a percentage of the vehicle’s declared value. Most European countries charge 10% import duty on vehicles from non-EU countries like the UAE.

VAT Calculations

Value Added Tax (VAT) is applied to the total value including the original purchase price plus import duty. VAT rates vary significantly across Europe:

Lowest VAT Rates:

  • Switzerland: 7.7%
  • Luxembourg: 17%
  • Malta: 18%
  • Germany: 19%

Highest VAT Rates:

  • Hungary: 27%
  • Denmark: 25%
  • Sweden: 25%
  • Croatia: 25%

Special Considerations

Classic Cars (30+ Years)

Vehicles over 30 years old often qualify for reduced rates or exemptions. This can result in significant savings for classic car imports.

Electric Vehicles

Some countries offer reduced import duties for electric vehicles as part of environmental incentives.

Example Calculation

For a €50,000 vehicle shipped to Germany:

  • Vehicle value: €50,000
  • Import duty (10%): €5,000
  • VAT base: €55,000
  • VAT (19%): €10,450
  • Total duties: €15,450

Money-Saving Tips

  • Accurate valuation can reduce duty calculations
  • Consider destinations with lower VAT rates
  • Explore classic car exemptions if applicable
  • Professional customs handling ensures compliance

Our experts handle all customs calculations and procedures. Learn more about our customs clearance services.

Professional car shipping services from Dubai to Europe. We handle all aspects of international vehicle transportation including customs clearance, documentation, and secure shipping methods.