What documents are required to ship a car to Bucharest, Romania?

To ship your car to Bucharest, you'll need the original vehicle title, a bill of sale, a bill of lading, and a valid passport. Additionally, Romania requires a customs declaration form and, in some cases, an export certificate from the country of origin. Ensure all documents are accurately completed to avoid delays during customs clearance.

How long does it take to ship a car from the USA to Bucharest?

Shipping a car from the USA to Bucharest typically takes between 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the port of departure and the shipping method chosen. Factors such as customs processing and port congestion can also influence the total transit time.

What taxes and duties will I need to pay when importing a car into Romania?

When importing a car into Romania, you are generally subject to a 10% customs duty and a 19% Value Added Tax (VAT) based on the vehicle's value, including shipping costs. Additional fees may apply depending on the vehicle's specifications and compliance with Romanian regulations.

Are there restrictions on the type or age of vehicles I can import into Romania?

Romania allows the import of both new and used vehicles; however, cars older than 8 years may be subject to higher taxes. All imported vehicles must meet at least Euro 4 emission standards and pass a technical inspection upon arrival. It's advisable to verify your vehicle's compliance before shipping.

Ship Car to Bucharest, Romania with Ease

Ship Car to Bucharest, Romania with Reliable Transport

Car Shipping Bucharest

Bucharest, the largest city and capital of Romania, is the financial and cultural center of the nation. It is situated on the panoramic banks of the Dâmbovița River and is about 38 miles from the River Danube, making it a scenic city to live and work in. You might move to Bucharest soon if you have a work or a resident permit. However, having your car or other vehicle can help you easily commute within and outside the city.

Romania's Vehicle Import Taxes and Fees

Importing a car into Romania involves taxes and fees that can significantly impact the total cost. Key charges include a 10% import duty and a 19% Value Added Tax (VAT), calculated based on the vehicle's value, shipping, and insurance costs. Additionally, Romania imposes an environmental tax, known as the "Timbrul de Mediu," which varies depending on the vehicle's CO₂ emissions and age. Understanding these costs upfront is crucial for budgeting and ensuring compliance with Romanian import regulations.

Compliance with Romanian Vehicle Standards

Before registering your vehicle in Romania, it must meet specific technical and environmental standards. This includes obtaining a technical inspection certificate from the Romanian Auto Registry (RAR) to verify roadworthiness and adherence to EU emission norms. Vehicles failing to meet these standards may require modifications or be denied registration. It's advisable to consult with RAR or a local expert to assess your vehicle's compliance and address any necessary adjustments before shipping.

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Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Bucharest

To/From	Ground	Ocean	Estimated Time
San Jose, CA to (California port) to Bucharest	$200	$3600	5+44 days
Los Angeles to (California port) to Bucharest	$350	$3600	5+44 days
Bucharest to (California port) to Portland, OR	$475	$3600	6+44 days
Bucharest to (California port) to Seattle, WA	$550	$3600	6+44 days
Columbus, OH to (New York port) to Bucharest	$550	$2800	5+37 days
Bucharest to (New York port) to Charlotte, NC	$575	$2800	6+37 days
Bucharest to (New York port) to Atlanta, GA	$700	$2800	6+37 days
Denver, CO to (California port) to Bucharest	$775	$3600	7+44 days
Bucharest to (New York port) to Memphis, TN	$800	$2800	6+37 days
Houston, TX to (New York port) to Bucharest	$1,075	$2800	7+37 days

*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.

*Save the ground transport cost by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.

*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.

*Prices are for 1 car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport a vehicle internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.

*Using the RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive and shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.

There is a lot of paperwork associated with the shipment of the vehicle, and some of the critical documents that are needed by the U.S Customs and Border protection and the Romanian Customs Department include:

US-registration of the car.
Invoice of Vehicle Purchase.
Work/Residence permit.
Clear Title deed.
Bill of Lading.
Insurance on the vehicle.
Passport and Proof of ownership.

There might be limitations and restrictions when you import to Bucharest, so it is essential to check with an international shipping company like A1 Auto Transport service or the Romanian Customs department. A1 Auto Transport service could assist and guide you with preparing your car for transportation to Romania. We are here to answer your queries and questions. You need to own the vehicle you are shipping for at least 6 months in the US before importing it.

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Cost of shipping

The shipping service representative will be able to help you budget for the auto shipping requirement. You need to know that the taxes are applicable based on the price of the vehicle. There is a maximum duty of 17% and VAT of 24% on all imports. The more expensive the car, the higher the shipping and insurance cost. However, the method you select to ship the car also counts. The basic two methods commonly used to ship include:

RORO: This is the cheapest method, but you are not allowed to put any personal belongings in the vehicle. It is parked in a bay on the deck and secured for transit. You have to remove the air conditioning gas and clean the vehicle to avoid quarantine at the Romanian port. A jack, floor mats, and spare keys need to be left in the vehicle.
Container shipping: Your car is secured and harnessed within a 20-foot or 40-foot shipping container, and other personal belongings or household goods that need to be transported are kept alongside. Then, the container is closed and sealed. Due to the added layer of security and personalized shipping option, it is much more expensive than RORO.

Adhering to the import regulations and laws in Romania will ensure speedy deliveries and hassle-free customs clearances. To determine your vehicle's eligibility, check Title 19 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations. A1 Auto Transport offers ‘door-to-port’ and ‘port-to-port’ services, and if you need any of these services, please let us know in advance.

After the vehicle arrives in Bucharest, you must change the license plates and apply for a local driving license. Before you drive your car there, it is good to read up on the Romanian traffic laws and regulations. Contact the Embassy of Romania today for specific information about auto imports to Romania.

Efficient Car Shipping

The Port of Constanța has recently undergone significant upgrades, including expanding its container shipping capacity and adding a roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) terminal capable of handling up to 80,000 vehicles annually. These enhancements streamline the car shipping process to Romania, offering faster and more efficient handling of vehicles destined for Bucharest. Utilizing Constanța's improved facilities can reduce transit times and minimize potential delays in your car's journey.

Transit Times from the U.S. to Bucharest

Shipping a car from the United States to Bucharest typically involves a sea voyage to the Port of Constanța, followed by overland transport to the capital. Transit times can vary based on the departure port and shipping method. For instance, shipping from the East Coast may take approximately 15 to 28 days, while departures from the West Coast could extend transit times. Planning accordingly and consulting with your shipping provider can help set realistic expectations for delivery timelines.

Conclusion

Successfully shipping your car to Bucharest involves understanding the logistics of Romanian ports, transit times, and the necessary documentation for import. By leveraging the enhanced capabilities of the Port of Constanța and planning for the overland journey to Bucharest, you can ensure a smoother shipping experience. Engaging with experienced international car shipping professionals will further assist in navigating customs procedures and regulatory requirements, providing peace of mind throughout the process.