FAQ about sourcing & inspecting cars in Germany

Straight answers on prices, workflow, VIN reports, delivery, documents and safe payments. A handy pre-purchase checklist included.

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Send us a link to the listing — we’ll advise which package fits best and when we can come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do inspection & sourcing services cost?
We offer four packages: Economy — €50; Standard — €200 + €1.5/km (one way); Berlin + Potsdam — €150; Full Support — €350 + €1.5/km. Details on the Tariffs page. Package comparison — Prices.
How is the price calculated and why prepayment?
The total depends on the package, distance (€/km from Stahnsdorf) and extra options. Prepayment by invoice reserves the specialist and covers travel; the balance is paid by invoice after service delivery and report.
How can I pay for the service?
Bank transfer (SEPA). You receive an invoice and pay online or at your bank. We don’t accept large cash payments; for transparency and your protection we recommend non-cash only.
How does the inspection proceed?
Call with the seller → schedule → on-site visit → visual body/interior check → OBD diagnostics → selective paint-thickness readings → photos/video → detailed report with recommendations. Negotiation on request — 30% of the discount achieved.
Do I need to order a separate VIN report in Germany?
Recommended. A VIN report (CarVertical/Carfax etc.) reveals accidents, mileage rollback and restrictions. Included in certain packages or ordered separately. If you already have one — we’ll use it.
How is delivery handled within Germany and abroad?
Option A: driven delivery — €200 + fuel (we use our plates within Germany). Option B: trailer/flatbed — €2.5/km one way in DE/EU. Details: Delivery.
Which documents are required for sale/purchase?
Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I/II (Fahrzeugschein/brief), contract/invoice, valid TÜV, service book/receipts. For export — transit plates and export documents.
How do I avoid fraud?
Check the VIN and papers, beware of “too good to be true” pricing, pay by invoice/escrow, avoid handing over cash on the street, use an on-site inspection and keep everything in writing.
Typical issues when buying — and how to avoid them?
Hidden accident damage/defects, mileage rollback, questionable documents. Solution: VIN report, thorough inspection, OBD scan, service/mileage confirmations and an expert on site.
Car insurance in Germany — what affects the price?
Driver’s experience/age, region, power/class, claim-free years (SF class), and coverage type (Haftpflicht/Teilkasko/Vollkasko). We don’t quote premiums but we’ll advise how to request offers.
Annual road tax (KFZ-Steuer) — what does it depend on?
Mainly engine size and CO₂ emissions (surcharges apply to modern cars). For an exact figure use data from your registration papers and Finanzamt calculators.
Which documents should you receive from the seller?
Original ZB I/II, contract/invoice, valid TÜV, service book/receipts, keys (main/spare). For export — transit plates and the export pack.
Seller warranty (Gewährleistung)
Dealers usually provide statutory warranty (often 12 months). Private sellers typically sell “as is”. Dealers are pricier but safer; private sales are cheaper yet riskier.
Who to buy from — private person or dealership?
Dealerships: higher price, warranty, transparent paperwork. Private sellers: lower price and more room for negotiation, but no warranty — thorough checks are essential.
Pre-purchase checklist — what to look at?
VIN report; panel gaps & paint traces; leaks and unusual noises; OBD fault codes; TÜV date/status; service/mileage proofs; city & highway test drive; VIN matches all papers.
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