Purchase vs. shipping a car

Member since 20 December 2020

jkmetMember25 April 2021 17:42:35

I have a few questions

I own a VW Jetta Sportwagen in Bend Oregon.

1. Would this be a good car to drive in the Algarve region?
2. Would I be better off purchasing a new or used vehicle in Portugal, or shipping my VW?
3. If I decide to purchase, any recommendation for a good European car and dealership near Lagos?
4. Any recommendations for a US to Portugal shipper?
5. What should I consider before purchasing (e.g., taxes and other considerations)

patrox New member

Member since 25 October 2020

patroxNew member25 April 2021 17:54:23

From what i've heard it 's very expensive to change licence plates to portuguese ones if you don't do it quickly ( it can cost several thousands euros).
Our real estate agent recommanded to buy a new car in Lisboa instead ( not in algarve because it's way more expensive).
I haven't done all research yet (i'm researching on this subject too), but so far that's all i got for informations.

jkmet Member

Member since 20 December 2020

jkmetMember25 April 2021 18:04:23

Thank you, patrox. Please share what you find, and I will do the same.

SimCityAT Expert

Member since 08 April 2014

SimCityATExpert25 April 2021 18:40:15

12012

jkmet wrote:
Thank you, patrox. Please share what you find, and I will do the same.

Unless it is a classic, it really is not the point. The expense of shipping, import duties and paperwork. The costs do mount up.

jkmet Member

Member since 20 December 2020

jkmetMember25 April 2021 19:22:04

Thank you, SimCatAT!

Edwinholder Member

Member since 31 August 2020

EdwinholderMember25 April 2021 20:53:41

Hello, I understood that is you imported your car from North America, a car that you have owned longer than six months, if you shipped it with your household goods there would be no duty on the vehicle.
Is this not correct

JohnnyPT Portugal Expert

Member since 23 May 2020

JohnnyPTPortugal Expert26 April 2021 00:41:45

4775

Hi Jkmet,
This may help to answer some of your questions:

How to buy a car (new or second-hand vehicle)
https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=909129

Importing Vehicles
https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.p … 16#5064097
(Post #2)

How to register your imported vehicle in Portugal and get portuguese registration number plates
https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.p … 33#5099337
(Post #8)

Best Regards