Germany seizes 184 undeclared cars in a âŹ350,000 customs crackdown
German customs officers seized 184 vehicles last year for undeclared imports, mostly from Switzerland. The crackdown by Ulm's main customs office uncovered a range of cars, motorcycles, and tractors with a combined back-duty value of nearly âŹ350,000.
The seized vehicles included luxury models like Lamborghinis, vintage cars, and even agricultural tractors. Purchase prices varied widely, from as little as âŹ1,500 to as much as âŹ60,000 per vehicle. Most had been brought into the EU without the required customs declaration.
Under German law, importing a car from outside the EUâincluding Switzerlandârequires a 10% customs duty and 19% VAT. Failure to declare the import can lead to penalties, including fines of up to âŹ10,000 or more, depending on the vehicle's value and the delay in correction. In severe cases, authorities may seize the car or demand backdated duties and VAT.
About a quarter of the cases resulted in fines, totalling âŹ40,000. Some offenders faced prosecution for tax evasion, while others had their cars impounded. The exact penalties varied, as customs officials assess each case individually.
The seizures highlight the risks of undeclared car imports into Germany. Offenders not only face financial penalties but may also lose their cars entirely. Customs authorities continue to enforce strict checks to prevent tax evasion on high-value goods.
