Profitability of importing cars versus buying in the domestic market

More and more used car dealerships are asking themselves whether it is worth importing vehicles instead of buying them directly from the domestic market. The reason is clear: to improve margins, expand stock, and offer models that are not easily found in Spain.

But is it really more profitable to import? In this article, we analyze both options from a practical approach, comparing advantages, costs, and risks so that you can make the best decision for your dealership.

Buying cars in the domestic market

Advantages

• Speed in acquisition: you can have the car available in just a few days

• Fewer administrative procedures: it is already registered and complies with regulations

• Lower legal risk: it is easy to verify its history through the DGT or national platforms

• Easy warranty: you can know well the origin and previous maintenance

Furthermore, having trusted national suppliers reduces uncertainties and allows for a quicker stock rotation, which is key to maintaining good liquidity.

Disadvantages

• Higher prices: especially for popular or recent models

• Less variety in stock: limited by local demand and availability

• High local competition: many dealerships compete for the same cars

Common costs

• Purchase price (wholesaler or individual)

• Reconditioning costs

• Broker fees

• Publication and marketing

There may also be hidden costs such as extended warranties, documentation management, or transportation within the national territory.

Importing cars from abroad

Advantages

• Lower prices: in countries like Germany, Belgium, or France

• Exclusive or better-equipped models

• Greater negotiation margin at origin

• Complete documentation of the vehicle's history (service book, appraisal reports)

Additionally, many cars in northern European countries show less wear due to the climate, and better maintenance due to stricter regulations.

Disadvantages

• Complex procedures: transportation, customs, homologation, ITV, fees

• Longer delivery time: between 1 and 3 weeks depending on the country

• Risk of unexpected issues: undetected defects, logistical delays

• Language and limited warranties

It is crucial to have an import manager or work with reliable suppliers to ensure a transparent and efficient process.

Common costs

• Price of the car at origin

• International transportation

• Management or importer fees

• ITV, homologation, Traffic and Treasury fees

• Registration and taxes costs if applicable

It is also important to factor in the time of capital immobilization until the car can be sold.

Comparison of margins and costs

This analysis shows that importing can generate more attractive margins, but it involves greater investment of time and management. It is not ideal for all dealership profiles.

Key factors in deciding which option is best

• Volume of operations: if you sell a lot, importing can increase margins

• Experience in managing procedures: importing requires structure or good suppliers

• Customer profile: if they seek price and quality, importing helps; if they prefer speed, domestic

• Stock rotation: importing can slow down the cycle if not well planned

• Available capital: imported cars require an upfront investment until they are regularized

An additional factor is stock forecast: importing allows anticipation of trends and adapting the offer with more demanded models before they saturate in the domestic market.

Conclusion

Importing cars can be significantly more profitable than buying them in the domestic market, as long as the procedures, costs, and risks are well managed. The margin per unit can be higher, but so can the operational burden.

On the other hand, the domestic market offers greater agility and simplicity, ideal for dealerships that prioritize quick rotation and operational security.

The best strategy is often to combine both sources, adapting to demand and optimizing the stock mix to offer competitive prices without losing profitability.

A dealership that masters both options has greater adaptability and can differentiate itself by offering both exclusive products and immediate delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is importing cars more profitable than buying them in Spain?

Yes, if managed correctly. It allows access to lower prices and better-equipped models, increasing the margin per unit.

What taxes are paid when importing a car?

VAT (if applicable), registration fee, circulation tax, and management costs. In the case of EU countries, there are no tariffs.

What is the usual margin for an imported car?

It can be between 20% and 30% higher than a domestic car, depending on the model, supplier, and purchase conditions.

How long does it take for an imported car to arrive?

Between 7 and 21 days, depending on the country of origin and the logistics contracted.

Can I import without prior experience?

Yes, but it is advisable to have an intermediary or specialized supplier to avoid costly mistakes.

Are you looking to import cars and don't know where to start? At Dealcar, we help you connect with reliable suppliers and optimize the entire process.