Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Wellington to Rotterdam

The average price to ship a car from USA to Netherlands ranges from $1150 to $2850, and the duties to import a car to Netherlands from the United States are 11% duty + 21% VAT of the value of the vehicle + $1500 for local charges in Netherlands.

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but for long cross-country moves, the cost difference shrinks, and shipping can become comparable or even cheaper once you factor in gas, lodging, food, wear-and-tear, and your time, making the decision depend on distance, vehicle, your schedule, and budget. Driving saves money on carrier fees but adds wear on your car, while shipping costs more upfront but saves time, fuel, and stress.

If you move to the Netherlands and bring your car with you as a so-called 'moving article,' you can keep your registration plates for 6 months. After that, you have to apply for Dutch vehicle registration at the RDW. Your vehicle must be approved by the RDW. This requires a physical inspection.