Import Car to France with Crypto | Bitmalo

France has always been a hot spot for collectors and enthusiasts looking to get their hands on unique cars from other countries. However, the country’s import process is guided by strict emission rules, safety compliance checks, and the popular “malus écologique” tax which penalizes cars with high CO₂ emissions. At Bitmalo, we offer a straightforward way: 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 doorstep anywhere in France.

What Makes France Different?

Unlike plenty of other markets, France permits both LHD and RHD vehicles to be registered, but some changes are required. Headlights need to be set for right-hand traffic, rear fog lights are a must, and the speedometer has to show km/h. Cars with existing EU Type Approval can usually register with very little stress using a Certificate of Conformity (CoC). Vehicles without EU approval need a more thorough Réception à Titre Isolé (RTI) via DREAL/UTAC, which takes more time but is totally doable if the paperwork is sorted out beforehand.

Customs clearance in France is handled centrally by DGDDI (Direction Générale des Douanes et des Droits Indirects) using the DELTA system. Once customs duties and import VAT are paid, cars then go for inspection and registration. Bitmalo makes sure your vehicle comes with the right documents—bill of sale, export title, proof of conformity—so the clearance process goes smoothly.

The Import Journey

1. Pick and check: Look through Cars, select your preferred vehicle, and ask for an inspection. We confirm VIN, emissions data, and equipment, then prepare a France-ready inspection report.
2. Buy: Pay 100% upfront through USDT/BTC/ETH or bank transfer (USD). We act as the official buyer and sort out export clearance.
3. Transport: Your car is shipped by sea (via Le Havre or Marseille/Fos) or by air (usually Paris CDG). We give you quotes for both so you can compare cost against time.
4. Customs & delivery: We pay duties and VAT through our broker, re-invoice clearly, and deliver your vehicle anywhere in France with comprehensive insurance.

Taxes, Duties, and Registration Costs

When importing to France, you should prepare for:

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

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

Shipping Options

Air freight through CDG is perfect for imports that are time-sensitive, usually 3–7 days door-to-door once dispatched. Ocean freight gives you the best value, with transit times of 3–6 weeks depending on the route and terminal schedules. No matter the method, Bitmalo provides door-to-door comprehensive coverage and handles all DO/THC and bonded handling.

Why Import with Bitmalo?

• Crypto or fiat payment — clear invoices with TXIDs for proper accounting.
• Expert compliance preparation — CoC and RTI guidance, emissions documentation, and French-language paperwork.
• One contact point — we manage DGDDI customs, VAT payment, and arrival charges through our broker.
• Nationwide delivery — Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Lille, Toulouse, Nice, and other cities.

FAQs

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

What is the malus écologique? A registration tax based on CO₂. High-performance cars usually get big 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 face restrictions in low-emission zones.

Final Word

France has one of Europe’s most thorough import systems, but with proper planning, it’s totally manageable. Bitmalo ensures that every step—inspection, paperwork, customs, and registration—aligns with French requirements, giving you peace of mind and a car that’s ready for the road.

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