How to import a BMW from Germany: a step-by-step guide

Many buyers choose to import a BMW from Germany. The German market is huge, with many well-maintained cars, M models and rare specifications, often with complete service history.

Importing a car takes planning, and mistakes can be expensive. In this guide we explain the main steps: finding the right car, checking its history, inspections, safe payment, temporary export plates, transport and registration at home. Rules differ between countries, so always check the requirements of your own country before you buy.

Why buy a BMW in Germany?

Germany is BMW's home market, and many cars are sold there new. This creates a large choice of used cars, including:

• M cars and M Performance models in many specifications.
• Cars with full dealer service history, often recorded digitally.
• Rare colours and options, including BMW Individual specifications. Our article on BMW Individual explains these options.

Prices can be attractive, but remember to include the costs of travel, inspection, transport, taxes and registration when comparing.

Germany also has a strong culture of regular servicing and inspections. Many cars are serviced at BMW partners and have digital service records, which makes it easier to check their history. However, high-mileage motorway cars are also common, so read the records carefully rather than assuming every car has been treated gently.

How to import a BMW from Germany: finding the car

Use well-known online marketplaces and dealer websites, and filter by model, year, mileage and equipment. Pay attention to:

• Dealer or private seller. Dealers often offer warranties and export documents. Our community topic on private seller vs dealer explains the differences.
• Detailed descriptions and many photos.
• Accident history, often described as accident-free or with repaired damage.
• The number of previous owners.

Be cautious with prices far below the market. Our community guide on marketplace safety explains common scams.

Checking the history

Before travelling, ask the seller for:

• The service history, either the service book or a digital service record from a BMW partner.
• The general inspection report, which shows the car's condition at recent inspections.
• Invoices for major work.
• The VIN, so you can check the specification. Our guide on how to read a BMW VIN explains how.

Consistent mileage records across service invoices and inspections help confirm that the mileage is genuine.

Inspection before buying

If possible, arrange an independent inspection before paying. Options include:

• A BMW service partner near the seller.
• An independent inspection service that checks the car on site.
• Visiting the car yourself with an experienced friend.

Our complete checklist for buying a used BMW M car and our guide to buying a high mileage BMW explain what to check.

Payment and documents

Use safe payment methods and never pay a large deposit before seeing the car or confirming it through a trusted inspection. Typical documents include:

• The vehicle registration documents that prove ownership and identify the car.
• A written purchase contract with the price, VIN, mileage and condition.
• The Certificate of Conformity, which can help registration in other European countries.
• An invoice from dealers, which may be needed for tax purposes in your country.

Make sure you receive all keys, documents and the service history.

Export plates and transport

To drive the car out of Germany, you usually need temporary export plates with short-term insurance, or you can transport the car by truck.

• Driving it home is cheaper but adds wear and depends on export plates and insurance.
• Transport by truck is safer for valuable or non-running cars and avoids paperwork for driving on public roads.

Dealers who regularly sell to foreign buyers can often help arrange export plates or transport.

Customs, taxes and registration at home

The rules depend on your country:

• Within the European Union, there are usually no customs duties, but registration taxes and VAT rules may apply.
• Outside the European Union, customs duties, import taxes and additional inspections may apply.
• Technical inspection and homologation may be required before registration.

Contact the relevant authorities or an experienced import agent before buying, so you know the total cost.

Some cars need small changes to meet local requirements, such as lights, number plate holders or speedometer units. Ask in advance whether your chosen model needs any modifications or additional certificates. A clear plan avoids surprises when the car arrives.

Tips for a successful import

• Calculate the total cost before buying.
• Check the history carefully and arrange an inspection.
• Use secure payment methods.
• Plan transport and paperwork in advance.
• Keep all documents for registration and future resale.

Ask other members in the community who have imported cars about their experience. Practical advice from people who have done it can save time and money.

Importing a BMW from Germany at a glance

Item	Details
Why Germany	Large choice, good history, rare specifications
Check	Service history, inspection reports, VIN
Inspection	BMW partner or independent service
Documents	Registration documents, contract, invoice, CoC
Transport	Export plates or truck transport
At home	Taxes, inspection and registration rules
Key tip	Calculate total cost before buying

Frequently asked questions

Is it worth importing a BMW from Germany?

Often yes, for choice and history. Include travel, inspection, transport, taxes and registration in the total cost.

What documents do I need to import a BMW from Germany?

Registration documents, a purchase contract, an invoice from dealers and often a Certificate of Conformity.

Can I drive a car home from Germany?

Usually with temporary export plates and short-term insurance, or you can transport it by truck.

Do I pay customs when importing a BMW from Germany?

It depends on your country. Within the EU there are usually no customs duties, but other taxes may apply.

Sources

• BMW Group – approved used car information
• European Commission – buying a car in another EU country