The short answer is that some cars are worth importing and some are not.
Today, it is very easy for anyone to see how much a used car is selling for in Europe (e.g. on platforms like mobile.de and autoscout24.de) and then visit Greek websites to compare its price in Greece. But beyond that, things get tricky. The final price is not just the purchase price, as there are significant import costs.
Which cars are really worth importing?;
As a general rule, import is more beneficial to newer models (usually 1 to 6 years old), which meet strict pollutant standards Euro 6. In these categories, customs duties are more rational. On the contrary, on older vehicles (Euro 5 or older), the Greek state imposes environmental fees that often make import unprofitable. Also, import presents a huge advantage in premium categories, where the difference in price, equipment and the condition of the vehicle in relation to the Greek market is chaotic.
What are the additional costs of importing a car?;
To calculate the actual cost until the car has Greek plates, you need to consider:
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The cost transportation: It depends on where the vehicle is located (e.g. Northern or Southern Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands) and the mode of transport: a car can be transported to Greece by railcar, by road but also in special cases (usually Supercars) individually, with specialized means of transport and an insurance contract.
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The cost technical inspection: It has to do with the company that will be assigned the pre-purchase inspection abroad, so that we can be sure of the condition of the vehicle. The inspection can be carried out at a German MOT (TÜV, DEKRA, GTÜ, KÜS…), at a German expert company or even at an official dealership (Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Porsche…)
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The cost customs clearance: This is the biggest "puzzle". It depends on anti-pollution technology, CO pollutants2, body type but mainly by the RRP (Retail Pre-Tax Value) of the specific car in Greece. Many buyers confuse the LPFA with the purchase price. These are two completely different prices, the purchase price plays absolutely no role in the customs clearance cost. What matters is how much the car we are interested in cost before taxes when it was first registered at Greek prices.
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The fee of the importing company: It has to do with the value of the car, the range of services it will undertake (bureaucracy, inspections, transportation, customs clearance, issuance of a Greek registration license) and the possible complexity of importing the specific car.
⚠️ Beware of scams: We often hear about amateur pre-cost estimates that are completely out of touch with reality. If a mistake is made in calculating the LPFA or pollutants, customs clearance can cost double or triple what you estimated, and of course no "experienced friend" will take financial responsibility.
In the carforyou.gr we calculate for you, completely free, the total additional cost of the import with the greatest possible accuracy, saving you from unpleasant surprises.
Unlimited Options and Equipment
Beyond the financial aspect, there is another main reason to look outside the borders: the variety. The Greek used car market is often limited. By searching the European market, you have access to hundreds of thousands of vehicles. This means you don't have to compromise. You can find the car in exactly the color you want, with the specific equipment package (e.g. bucket seats, premium sound system, panoramic roof) and the safety systems you desire.
Price vs. Quality: Why are cars from abroad superior?;
But is price the only factor we should consider? The truth is that the market is judged on two axes: price and quality.
The cars that circulate on the road network of Germany or other European countries have been maintained strictly according to the manufacturer (full and certified service history) and have real kilometers. Due to the excellent quality of the roads and the different maintenance culture, these vehicles show much less wear and tear on their mechanical parts and suspensions, compared to most vehicles we find in our country.
It is no coincidence that our customers, upon delivery, constantly point out to us how "new" and flawless the car we imported on their behalf looks.
Do you want to know if the car you found is worth it?;
Don't take chances with random calculations. If you have found a car abroad that interests you, send us the link we will take care of introducing you free of charge a complete financial offer, analyzing every cost until the key is in your hand.