Buying a used car abroad can save you money, but it requires careful planning. It is important to choose the right country, such as Germany, Belgium or the Netherlands, where the vehicles are well maintained. Before buying, it is important to...
Purchasing a used vehicle abroad can be a great opportunity to save money, as prices in some countries are significantly lower than in our own. However, it is important to approach the purchase carefully and check all necessary information to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Before deciding to buy, it is crucial to thoroughly research different options and understand all the procedures required when bringing the vehicle to your country.
Used vehicle prices can vary significantly depending on the country of origin. Among the most popular countries for buying used cars are Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France. These countries are known for their wide selection of high-quality used vehicles, transparent maintenance history, and favorable prices. On the other hand, prices in Italy and Spain may be slightly lower, but extra caution is needed regarding their history, as they may be poorly maintained or have more mileage than stated. You can also read more about this in our blog where we write about how to quickly find used vehicles from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Before purchasing abroad, it is essential to check all costs associated with importing a vehicle to your country. These include:
• Customs and VAT – Additional fees may be required in some cases.
• Homologation and technical inspection – The vehicle must comply with Slovenian standards.
• Registration and insurance – Costs vary depending on the type of vehicle.
When searching for a vehicle abroad, it is best to use reliable online platforms that offer a wide selection of cars with detailed information about their history and condition. Some of the most trusted websites include mobile.de, autoscout24.com, and leboncoin.fr. These platforms allow you to filter results based on your preferences, compare prices, and contact sellers directly. You can also check Weltscout, which aggregates listings from multiple car-selling platforms. Once you find a suitable vehicle, always verify its history before making a final decision.
Verifying a vehicle’s history is crucial. Use online tools such as:
• CarVertical
• AutoDNA
• Histovec (for France)
These services will help you check if the vehicle has been involved in accidents, if the mileage is accurate, and if it has any outstanding debts.
If possible, it is recommended to inspect the vehicle in person before purchasing. Pay attention to the general condition of the bodywork, signs of rust, tire and chassis wear, engine performance, and the interior condition. In addition to a visual inspection, it is advisable to take a test drive to see how the vehicle handles on the road and if there are any mechanical issues. If an in-person inspection is not possible, you can hire a local expert to examine the vehicle on your behalf and provide a detailed report on its condition.
Once you decide to purchase the vehicle, make sure that the sales contract is correctly filled out and contains all key details about the vehicle and the seller. You must also obtain the original vehicle documents from the seller, such as the registration certificate, service book, and invoice or proof of payment. Be cautious when making payments—never transfer money in advance without proper guarantees and a verified seller. It is recommended to complete the payment through secure channels or in person upon collecting the vehicle.
After purchasing the vehicle, you need to arrange its transportation to your country. There are several options—you can hire a transport company to deliver the vehicle to your address or obtain temporary license plates to drive the vehicle home yourself. In some countries, such as Germany and Austria, you can acquire temporary plates with short-term insurance, allowing you to drive the vehicle safely without additional complications.
Once the vehicle arrives in Slovenia, you must complete the following steps:
• Customs declaration (if required)
• Homologation – Ensuring the vehicle complies with local regulations
• Technical inspection and registration
Once all procedures are completed, you can officially register your vehicle and start driving it legally on Slovenian roads!
Buying a used vehicle abroad can be a great way to save money, but it requires thorough planning and a good understanding of all procedures. It is essential to gather all necessary information, verify the vehicle’s history, and calculate all costs in advance to avoid unexpected complications. With the right approach and careful preparation, you can secure a high-quality vehicle at a favorable price and enjoy a worry-free driving experience.
