Import a Car to France with Crypto | Bitmalo

France has always been a top choice for collectors and enthusiasts keen on sourcing unique cars from abroad. However, the country’s import process is defined by strict emissions regulations, mandatory safety conformity checks, and the well-known “malus écologique” tax that penalizes vehicles with high CO₂ emissions. At Bitmalo, we offer a straightforward solution: you select the car, pay securely using crypto or bank transfer, and we handle the intricate logistics—from inspection, export, customs (DGDDI/Delta), to delivery right to your doorstep anywhere in France.

What Makes France Different?

Unlike many other markets, France permits both LHD (Left-Hand Drive) and RHD (Right-Hand Drive) vehicles to be registered, though specific adaptations are mandatory. Headlights need to be adjusted for right-hand traffic, rear fog lights are a must, and the speedometer must show readings in km/h. Vehicles with existing EU Type Approval can often be registered with minimal fuss via a Certificate of Conformity (CoC). Cars lacking EU approval necessitate a more comprehensive Réception à Titre Isolé (RTI) process through DREAL/UTAC, which might take longer but is entirely manageable if all documentation is prepared beforehand.

Customs clearance in France is centrally managed via DGDDI (Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects), utilizing the DELTA system. Once customs duties and import VAT have been paid, vehicles proceed to inspection and registration. Bitmalo guarantees your vehicle arrives with all the necessary documents—bill of sale, export title, and proof of conformity—ensuring a smooth and efficient clearance process.

The Import Journey

1. Select and inspect: Browse Cars, shortlist your desired vehicle, and request an inspection. We verify the VIN, emissions data, and equipment, then prepare a France-compliant inspection report.
2. Purchase: Pay 100% upfront through USDT/BTC/ETH or via bank transfer (USD). We serve as the buyer of record and facilitate export clearance.
3. Transport: Your car is shipped either by sea (via Le Havre or Marseille/Fos) or by air (typically through Paris CDG). We provide quotes for both options, allowing you to compare cost versus timing.
4. Customs & delivery: We handle the settlement of duties and VAT through our designated broker, re-invoice transparently, and deliver your vehicle anywhere in France, complete with all-risk insurance.

Taxes, Duties, and Registration Costs

When importing to France, you should be prepared for:

• Customs duty – typically 10% of the vehicle’s declared customs value.
• Import VAT – a standard 20% applied to the customs value plus duty.
• Registration fees (carte grise) – these are determined by horsepower, vehicle age, and the region.
• Malus écologique – a CO₂ emissions penalty which can substantially increase costs for high-performance vehicles.
• ZFE/Crit’Air compliance – certain urban areas impose restrictions on older, high-emissions vehicles within low-emission zones.

We incorporate these costs into your quote, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what to expect before shipment.

Shipping Choices

Air freight through CDG is perfect for time-sensitive imports, typically taking 3–7 days door-to-door once dispatched. Ocean freight provides the most cost-effective solution, with transit times ranging from 3–6 weeks, depending on the route and terminal schedules. Irrespective of the chosen method, Bitmalo includes door-to-door all-risk coverage and manages all documentation for Delivery Order (DO), Terminal Handling Charges (THC), and bonded warehousing.

Why Import with Bitmalo?

• Crypto or fiat settlement — transparent invoices are provided with TXIDs for easy reconciliation.
• Expert compliance preparation — we offer guidance on CoC and RTI, assist with emissions documentation, and handle French-language paperwork.
• Single point of contact — we manage DGDDI customs, VAT settlement, and all arrival charges via our trusted broker.
• Nationwide delivery — covering Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Lille, Toulouse, Nice, and numerous other locations across France.

FAQ

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

What is the malus écologique?
It is a registration tax primarily based on CO₂ emissions. High-performance vehicles frequently incur substantial penalties, which we calculate for your specific VIN prior to purchase.

Do you provide Crit’Air/ZFE guidance?
Yes, we include the emissions classification to ascertain whether your vehicle will be subject to restrictions in low-emission zones.

Final Word

France possesses one of Europe’s most meticulous import systems, yet with proper preparation, it is entirely manageable. Bitmalo guarantees that every stage—from inspection, documentation, customs, to registration—is perfectly aligned with French regulations, providing you with complete peace of mind and a vehicle that’s fully prepared for the roads.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as tax or legal advice. Bitmalo will confirm the precise costs, conformity procedures, and timelines specific to your VIN and chosen registration city.