Importing a Car to France using Crypto | Bitmalo

France has long been a destination for collectors and enthusiasts looking to source unique cars from abroad. Yet the country’s import process is defined by strict emission norms, safety compliance checks, and the well-known “malus écologique” tax that penalises vehicles with high CO₂ emissions. At Bitmalo, we provide a streamlined process: you choose the car, pay securely in crypto or bank transfer, and we handle the complex logistics—inspection, export, customs (DGDDI/Delta), and doorstep delivery to your door anywhere in France.

What Makes France Different?

Unlike several other markets, France allows both LHD and RHD vehicles to be registered, but certain adaptations are compulsory. Headlights need to be adjusted for right-hand traffic, rear fog lights are compulsory, and the speedometer must display km/h. Vehicles with existing EU Type Approval can often register with minimal fuss via a Certificate of Conformity (CoC). Cars without EU approval require a more detailed Réception à Titre Isolé (RTI) through DREAL/UTAC, which adds time but is entirely manageable if paperwork is prepared beforehand.

Customs clearance in France is centralised through DGDDI (Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects) using the DELTA system. Once customs duties and import VAT are paid, cars move on to inspection and registration. Bitmalo ensures your vehicle arrives with the correct documents—bill of sale, export title, proof of conformity—ensuring a seamless clearance process.

The Import Journey

1. Select and inspect: Browse Cars, shortlist your preferred vehicle, and request an inspection. We confirm VIN, emissions data, and equipment, and prepare a France-ready inspection report.
2. Purchase: Pay 100% upfront via USDT/BTC/ETH or bank transfer (USD). We act as the buyer of record and secure export clearance.
3. Transport: Your car is shipped by sea (via Le Havre or Marseille/Fos) or by air (typically Paris CDG). We provide quotes for both so you can compare cost versus timing.
4. Customs & Delivery: We settle duties and VAT through our broker, re-invoice transparently, and deliver your vehicle anywhere in France with all-risk insurance.

Taxes, Duties, and Registration Costs

When importing to France, you should be prepared for:

• Customs duty – generally 10% of the vehicle’s customs value.
• Import VAT – standard 20% applied to the customs value + duty.
• Registration fees (carte grise) – based on horsepower, age, and region.
• Malus écologique – a CO₂ emissions penalty that can substantially increase costs for high-performance vehicles.
• ZFE/Crit’Air compliance – certain cities restrict older, high-emission cars from low-emission zones.

We factor these into your quote so you know what to expect before shipping.

Shipping Choices

Air freight via CDG is ideal for time-sensitive imports, usually 3–7 days door-to-door once uplifted. Ocean freight offers the most economical option, with transit times of 3–6 weeks depending on route and terminal schedules. Regardless of method, Bitmalo includes door-to-door all-risk coverage and manages all DO/THC and bonded handling.

Why Import with Bitmalo?

• Crypto or fiat settlement — clear invoices with TXIDs for reconciliation.
• Expert compliance preparation — CoC and RTI guidance, emissions documentation, and French-language paperwork.
• A single counterpart — we manage DGDDI customs, VAT settlement, and arrival charges through our broker.
• Nationwide delivery — Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Lille, Toulouse, Nice, and beyond.

FAQ

Can I register a right-hand-drive car in France?
Yes, with adaptations: headlamp adjustment, fog light, km/h speedometer, and rear reflectors.

What is the malus écologique?
A CO₂-based registration tax. High-performance cars often incur substantial penalties, which we calculate for your VIN before purchase.

Do you provide Crit’Air/ZFE guidance?
Yes—we include emissions classification to confirm whether your car will face restrictions in low-emission zones.

Final Word

France has one of Europe’s most meticulous import systems, but with preparation, it’s entirely manageable. Bitmalo ensures that every step—inspection, paperwork, customs, and registration—is aligned with French requirements, giving you peace of mind and a car that’s ready for the road.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes and should not be considered tax or legal advice. Bitmalo confirms exact costs, conformity steps, and timing for your VIN and registration city.