How to Import a Classic Car to Romania: Complete Guide 2025
Step-by-step guide to importing a classic vehicle to Romania, including customs and registration requirements.
Marcus Webb
Finds Editorial Team
Romania has become an attractive base for classic car collectors. Lower storage costs, a growing enthusiast community, and access to Eastern European barn finds make it practical for building a collection.
This guide comes from Finds, built by BetterQA in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. We navigate these processes regularly and understand the practical realities.
EU to Romania: The Simpler Path
Step 1: Obtain Export Documentation
- Deregister the vehicle in the origin country
- Obtain certificate of deregistration
- Gather service history and documentation
Step 2: Transport to Romania
No special permits required within EU for driving or trailering.
Step 3: Romanian Registration (RAR)
Visit local RAR office with: original documents, deregistration certificate, valid ID, proof of Romanian address, insurance (RCA), and ITP certificate.
Step 4: ITP (Technical Inspection)
For vehicles over 30 years old, Romania offers historic vehicle status which may exempt you from certain modern requirements.
Non-EU Import: Additional Requirements
- Import duty: 10% of declared value
- VAT: 19% calculated on (value + import duty + transport costs)
- Customs declaration (DAU) required
Costs Summary
| Item | EU Import | Non-EU Import |
|---|---|---|
| Import Duty | None | 10% of value |
| VAT | None | 19% |
| RAR Registration | ~200-400 RON | ~200-400 RON |
| ITP Inspection | ~150-300 RON | ~150-300 RON |
| Number Plates | ~50 RON | ~50 RON |
Getting Help
Several customs brokers in Romania specialize in vehicle import. For valuable classics, the €200-500 for professional assistance is worthwhile.
Finds is an EU-based classic car auction platform built by BetterQA. We're based in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, and understand the local market firsthand.
Marcus Webb
Finds Editorial Team
Marcus is a classic car enthusiast and automotive journalist with over 15 years of experience covering European car culture. He writes for Finds, a BetterQA Labs project.
Frequently asked questions
How does the Finds auction process work?
Sellers submit their classic car for review. Once approved, the auction runs for 3-7 days with real-time bidding and anti-sniping protection. The winning bidder pays a 5% buyer fee on top of the hammer price.
Is it safe to buy classic cars on Finds?
Yes. Every listing goes through a verification process. Sellers must disclose known defects and provide detailed photos and condition reports. Buyers can dispute within 7 days of delivery if the vehicle was misrepresented.
What fees does Finds charge?
Buyers pay a 5% fee on the final hammer price. There are no hidden costs. Listing is free for sellers. The fee is paid by card only; the hammer price is paid directly to the seller.
Published on Finds.ro, a classic car auction platform built by BetterQA, an ISO 9001 certified software testing company with 200+ projects delivered. Information in this article has been reviewed by our editorial team with 15+ years of experience in the European classic car market.
Finds is part of the BetterQA family of quality-focused products · betterqa.co