Import a Car to France with Crypto | Bitmalo

France has for a long time attracted collectors and enthusiasts keen on finding unique cars from overseas. However, the country’s import process is characterized by strict emissions regulations, safety compliance checks, and the well-known “malus écologique” tax that penalizes vehicles with high CO₂ emissions. At Bitmalo, we offer a smooth process: you pick the car, pay securely using crypto or bank transfer, and we handle all the complex logistics—inspection, export, customs (DGDDI/Delta), and delivery right to your door anywhere in France.

What Makes France Different?

Unlike many other markets, France permits the registration of both LHD and RHD vehicles, though specific adaptations are compulsory. Headlights need to be adjusted for right-hand traffic, rear fog lights are a must, and the speedometer must show km/h. Vehicles with existing EU Type Approval can often register with minimal fuss using a Certificate of Conformity (CoC). Cars without EU approval will need a more thorough Réception à Titre Isolé (RTI) via DREAL/UTAC, which takes a bit longer but is perfectly manageable if the paperwork is sorted out beforehand.

Customs clearance in France is centralized under DGDDI (Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects), utilizing the DELTA system. Once customs duties and import VAT have been paid, cars proceed to inspection and registration. Bitmalo ensures your vehicle arrives with all the right documents—bill of sale, export title, proof of conformity—to guarantee a smooth clearance process.

The Import Journey

1. Select and inspect: Browse Cars, narrow down your vehicle choice, and request an inspection. We confirm the VIN, emissions data, and equipment, then prepare a France-ready inspection report.
2. Purchase: Pay 100% upfront using USDT/BTC/ETH or bank transfer (USD). We act as the official buyer and secure export clearance.
3. Transport: Your car will be shipped by sea (via Le Havre or Marseille/Fos) or by air (usually Paris CDG). We provide quotes for both options so you can compare costs against delivery time.
4. Customs & delivery: We settle duties and VAT through our broker, re-invoice with full transparency, and deliver your vehicle anywhere in France with all-risk insurance.

Taxes, Duties, and Registration Costs

When importing to France, be prepared for:

• Customs duty – typically 10% of the vehicle’s customs value.
• Import VAT – the standard 20% applied to the customs value plus duty.
• Registration fees (carte grise) – these vary based on horsepower, age, and region.
• Malus écologique – a CO₂ emissions penalty which can substantially raise costs for high-performance vehicles.
• ZFE/Crit’Air compliance – some cities limit older, high-emissions cars from entering low-emission zones.

We include these in your quote so you know what to anticipate before shipping.

Shipping Choices

Air freight through CDG is perfect for urgent imports, usually taking 3–7 days door-to-door once dispatched. Ocean freight provides the most cost-effective option, with transit times ranging from 3–6 weeks depending on the route and terminal schedules. Whichever method you choose, Bitmalo includes door-to-door all-risk coverage and handles all DO/THC and bonded handling.

Why Import with Bitmalo?

• Crypto or fiat payment — clear invoices with TXIDs for easy reconciliation.
• Expert compliance preparation — CoC and RTI guidance, emissions documentation, and French-language paperwork.
• Single point of contact — we manage DGDDI customs, VAT settlement, and arrival charges through our broker.
• Countrywide delivery — Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Lille, Toulouse, Nice, and other towns.

FAQ

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

What is the malus écologique?
A registration tax based on CO₂ emissions. High-performance cars often face substantial penalties, which we calculate for your VIN before you buy.

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

Final Word

France operates one of Europe’s most meticulous import systems, but with proper preparation, it’s completely manageable. Bitmalo makes sure that every step—inspection, paperwork, customs, and registration—is in line with French requirements, offering you peace of mind and a car that’s ready for the road.

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