Importing from France

[Freebee]

As France is in the EU can I bring a boat over without paying Duty or tax this end or am I overlooking some important pitfall. I am thinking Benetau and secondhand prices are cheaper in France and the model I am interested in is more available.

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[sailorman]

i guess as long as the v.a.t. has been paid or she was in the E.U. on what ever date ( ive forgotten) & it can be proven all should be o.k.

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[Deleted User YDKXO]

I've looked at buying a boat in France myself although I didnt in the end. Bought one in Spain instead and brought it back to the UK without probs. Just make sure you get an original of the invoice showing VAT is paid
Some points to consider

1. A couple of French brokers told me they expected a buyers commission as well as a sellers commission in return for pushing the price down. Not ethical so walk away
2. Some boats are leased and there may be a balance of the lease to pay off when the sale is completed. Make sure it is clear whose responsibility this is
3. If you intend to raise a mortgage on the boat, the finance company will require that the boat is re-registered in the UK. Consult the finance company and ensure they are happy that the documentation is in place for this to be done before you buy
4. Even if you dont intend to get a mortgage, it is a good idea to check whether you can re-register the boat in the UK as this will make proving title easier when you resell

For these reasons, I would recommend dealing through a UK based brokerage company. Many have offices in France and it will make the buying process easier for you and more secure. There are many boats in France and indeed the Med generally which are already UK registered and this also makes the buying process easier. If you want to buy a French registered boat from a French broker, it might be wise to use a local notaire to handle the legal aspect of the sale

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[Rob H 37]

I bought in Spain also but only got a copy of the local tax documents - do you think this is a major problem?

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