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How much import duty and VAT do I pay on a Harley from America?
America is outside the EU, so on import you pay import duty and import VAT. The import duty is the same throughout the EU: 6% for motorcycles over 250 cc, 8% up to 250 cc. Import VAT is calculated on the purchase price plus shipping plus the import duty. Because we sell from America, you don’t pay that VAT to us but on import, via the unloading company.
The VAT rate depends on where the bike is cleared through customs. If it is cleared in Rotterdam, Dutch import VAT applies: 21%. It can also be moved under customs supervision to your own country and cleared there; then the import VAT rate of your country applies, for example 19% in Germany. On top of that, some countries charge a registration tax when you register the bike, such as the BPM in the Netherlands (no BPM for bikes 25 years or older). We work out the numbers for your country with you in advance.
Do I pay less tax on a Harley 30 years or older?
Often, yes. A motorcycle 30 years or older can be treated as a collector’s item on import. In that case you usually pay no import duty and a reduced VAT rate, for example 9% instead of 21% in the Netherlands or 7% instead of 19% in Germany. The bike must be in original condition, without major modifications to frame, engine, brakes or steering, and the model must no longer be in production. A heavily modified custom usually doesn’t qualify. Customs decides per vehicle. That’s why classics like a Shovelhead or Panhead are extra interesting to import.
What does unloading the container cost?
Unloading is done by our regular unloading company in the port of Rotterdam. They take the bike out of the container and make sure it is ready for collection. On request they also arrange transport to your address. We work out what that costs for your bike in advance: feel free to ask for an all-in calculation.
What does the customs declaration cost?
The unloading company handles the customs declaration for you. For that they need a power of attorney and a copy of your ID. You then receive the customs papers, which you need for the inspection and registration. We include these costs in your all-in calculation too.
Are there hidden costs, and can I pay in dollars?
No, there are no hidden costs. With our bikes, shipping to Rotterdam is already included in the price. After arrival you only pay for unloading, the customs declaration, import duty and VAT, plus any transport and the inspection and registration in your country. You pay in US dollars into our business account. Depending on the exchange rate, that can even work out cheaper for you.
Want to know more?
Also read how importing a motorcycle from the USA works and how to register a Harley from the USA. You can check current tariffs with the customs authority in your country. View our current bikes for sale or ask your question on WhatsApp.