RORO shipping to Riga, Latvia is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to transport vehicles from the USA to Northern Europe. This method involves vehicles being driven onto specialized ships and securely stowed for overseas travel. Riga, as a major Baltic Sea port, is well-equipped to handle RoRo vessels, making it a key destination for car dealers, private vehicle owners, and international movers. Its strategic location and modern port facilities ensure quick customs clearance and smooth onward transportation throughout Latvia and neighboring countries.
All Transport Depot offers professional RoRo shipping services to Riga, Latvia, with a focus on reliability, cost-effectiveness, and customer convenience. Whether you’re shipping a car, SUV, motorcycle, or heavy-duty vehicle, All Transport Depot coordinates every step—from pickup in the USA to delivery at the Riga port. With strong partnerships and years of industry experience, they make international vehicle transport simple, fast, and stress-free.
Shipping Your Vehicle to Riga: The RORO Method Explained
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) shipping represents a highly effective and widely used method for transporting operable wheeled vehicles across oceans. RORO vessels are essentially floating multi-story parking garages, allowing vehicles to be driven directly on and off via ramps. This streamlined approach minimizes handling, enhancing both efficiency and safety for your car’s journey to Riga.
RORO’s Advantages for Latvian-Bound Vehicles
Choosing RORO for your vehicle shipment to Riga offers several compelling benefits:
- Cost-Effectiveness: RORO shipping is generally more budget-friendly than container shipping for single, operable vehicles. It avoids the added expenses of container rental, specialized loading, and bracing.
- Reduced Risk of Damage: With vehicles being driven directly onto and off the ship, handling is significantly reduced, minimizing the potential for dents, scratches, or other transit-related damage.
- Efficiency & Speed: RORO vessels are designed for rapid loading and unloading, contributing to faster port turnaround times and often quicker overall transit schedules.
- Protection: Your vehicle is secured within enclosed decks, safeguarding it from external elements during the ocean voyage.
All Transport Depot’s RORO Process
Our process for RORO shipping is designed for clarity and convenience. You will deliver your vehicle to one of our designated departure ports in the USA (commonly East Coast ports like Baltimore, New York, or Jacksonville, which have frequent sailings to Europe). Here, our expert team performs a comprehensive pre-shipment inspection, thoroughly documenting your vehicle’s condition. The car is then professionally driven onto the RORO vessel and secured for its journey.
Upon arrival at the Port of Riga, our trusted local partners manage the efficient offloading. Following this, your vehicle will proceed through the essential Latvian customs clearance and mandatory technical evaluation by the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD), crucial steps before it can be legally registered and driven in Latvia. We provide ongoing support and information through each stage of this process.
Vehicles Suited for RORO Transport
RORO vessels are versatile and can accommodate a broad spectrum of wheeled vehicles and equipment for import into Latvia, including:
- Passenger Cars: Sedans, SUVs, coupes, and minivans.
- Motorcycles & ATVs: These are securely placed on specialized racks or in dedicated sections.
- Commercial Vehicles: Vans, pickup trucks, and light-duty trucks.
- Recreational Vehicles (RVs): Motorhomes and travel trailers (subject to size and weight restrictions).
- Heavy Equipment: Construction machinery, agricultural vehicles, and other self-propelled units.
Why Entrust Your Riga Shipment to All Transport Depot?
When selecting a partner for your vehicle’s journey to Riga, Latvia, choosing a company with a proven track record, transparent practices, and specialized expertise is paramount. All Transport Depot distinguishes itself through its commitment to reliability, competitive pricing, and in-depth understanding of Latvian import requirements.
Unmatched Expertise in Latvian Vehicle Logistics
Our team possesses comprehensive knowledge of the intricate shipping routes to Riga and the specific import regulations imposed by Latvia, an EU member state. We’ve cultivated robust relationships with reliable local agents and customs brokers in Latvia, ensuring that every phase – from vessel arrival and offloading to customs clearance and final release – is managed with precision. Our expertise allows us to anticipate potential obstacles and streamline the entire process, guaranteeing a smoother experience for you.
- In-depth understanding of EU and Latvian customs laws and vehicle import standards.
- A strong network of trusted local partners at the Port of Riga.
- Proactive problem-solving to mitigate potential delays.
Transparent Pricing and Exceptional Value
We are firm believers in complete financial transparency. All Transport Depot provides clear, competitive RORO shipping quotes to Riga, detailing all anticipated costs upfront. Our pricing strategy is designed to offer outstanding value without compromising on the quality, security, or efficiency of our service, empowering you to manage your budget effectively for your vehicle’s international journey.
- No hidden fees – clear and concise cost breakdowns for the shipping service.
- Competitive rates that deliver excellent value for your investment.
- Accurate estimates to facilitate precise financial planning.
Dedicated and Proactive Customer Support
Throughout your vehicle’s transit to Riga, our committed customer support team will keep you informed at every step. We provide timely updates and are always accessible to answer your questions, address any concerns, and offer personalized advice. Our primary goal is to ensure your international car shipping experience is as stress-free and efficient as possible.
- Consistent communication and real-time status updates.
- Tailored assistance customized to your specific shipping needs.
- A responsive team ready to provide expert guidance and support.
Your Vehicle’s Gateway to Latvia: The Port of Riga
Upon arrival, your vehicle will enter the Port of Riga, Latvia’s largest port and a vital logistical hub situated on the Daugava River, close to the Baltic Sea. This port is strategically crucial for trade and well-equipped to handle the volume of RORO cargo arriving in Latvia.
The Strategic Significance of Riga Port
The Port of Riga plays a central role in Latvia’s economy and its connectivity with global trade routes. Its modern facilities and advantageous geographical position make it an indispensable point of entry for various types of cargo, including RORO vehicle imports. Key characteristics include:
- Modern Infrastructure: Features state-of-the-art facilities for efficient cargo handling, including dedicated RORO berths.
- Logistical Capacity: Designed to manage high volumes of incoming vehicles, ensuring smooth processing and minimizing bottlenecks.
- Excellent Connectivity: Provides direct access to Latvia’s main road network, facilitating onward transport of your vehicle to its final destination within Riga or elsewhere in the country.
Vehicle Collection Process at Riga Port
Once your RORO vessel docks and your vehicle is offloaded at Riga, the crucial phase of customs clearance begins. This involves direct coordination with the Latvian State Revenue Service (VID). You will be required to:
- Submit all necessary import documentation.
- Settle any applicable customs duties, taxes, and port fees.
- Prepare for the mandatory technical assessment by the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD).
Our network of local partners in Riga can provide invaluable guidance throughout these procedures, assisting in the efficient and legal release of your vehicle from the port. Be prepared for a thorough process, as Latvian authorities rigorously inspect imported vehicles for compliance with EU standards.
Essential Documentation for Importing Your Car to Latvia
A successful RORO car import to Riga, Latvia, hinges on the meticulous preparation and presentation of accurate documentation. As Latvia is an EU member state, vehicles imported from non-EU countries are subject to specific and rigorous customs and registration requirements. However, Always confirm the most current requirements with the Latvian State Revenue Service (VID) or a local customs broker well in advance.
Here’s a comprehensive list of commonly required documents:
- Original Bill of Lading (BOL): This serves as the contract for carriage and proof of your vehicle’s shipment.
- Original Vehicle Title / Certificate of Ownership: Essential proof of your legal ownership. The title must be clean (no liens) or accompanied by a notarized lien release letter.
- Commercial Invoice or Bill of Sale: Must clearly state the vehicle’s purchase price, a detailed description (make, model, VIN, year, engine size, fuel type), and complete buyer/seller information. This document is crucial for customs valuation.
Copy of Passport/Identification: For identity verification of the vehicle owner.
- Proof of Latvian Residency/Relocation (if applicable): If you are a returning Latvian citizen or a new resident, documentation such as a residence permit, long-term visa, or proof of establishing residence may be required.
- EORI Number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification): All economic operators (individuals or companies) interacting with EU customs require an EORI number. Your customs broker can assist in obtaining this.
- Customs Import Declaration Form: The formal declaration of the vehicle to the Latvian State Revenue Service.
- Certificate of Conformity (COC) or Manufacturer’s Statement: This document, if available, certifies that your vehicle meets European Union technical and environmental standards. For US-spec vehicles, a full EU COC is rarely provided by the manufacturer, meaning a comprehensive technical assessment by CSDD will be mandatory upon arrival.
- De-registration Certificate: Proof that the vehicle has been legally deregistered in its country of origin (e.g., from the US Department of Motor Vehicles).
- Proof of Insurance: While optional for shipping, transit insurance is highly recommended to cover potential damage or loss during the ocean voyage.
Special Documentation for Customs Duty & VAT Relief (Transfer of Residence)
If you are an individual relocating your habitual residence from a non-EU country to Latvia and intend to claim exemption from customs duties and VAT (PVN), you must fulfill specific conditions and provide supporting evidence:
- You must have had your habitual residence outside the EU for a continuous period of at least 12 consecutive months immediately prior to transferring your residence to Latvia.
- You must have owned and used the vehicle for at least 6 months in your previous country of residence before importing it.
- The vehicle must be intended for your personal use and cannot be sold, lent, or rented out for a specified period (typically 12 months) after import.
Evidence typically includes utility bills, bank statements, employment contracts, and vehicle registration documents covering the required periods, demonstrating your residence outside the EU and ownership/use of the vehicle.
Latvian Customs & Vehicle Regulations in 2025: Key Information
Importing a vehicle into Riga, Latvia, from a non-EU country is governed by strict regulations enforced by the State Revenue Service (VID) for customs and taxes, and the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) for technical and registration standards. As an EU member state, Latvia applies comprehensive EU-wide customs and technical directives.
Core Import Regulations and Applicable Taxes (for Non-EU Origin Vehicles)
When bringing a vehicle from a non-EU country (like the USA) into Latvia, the following general rules and associated financial obligations apply:
- Customs Duty: Typically a 10% ad valorem duty on the vehicle’s CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value for passenger cars. This rate can vary for specific vehicle categories (e.g., commercial vehicles).
- Value Added Tax (VAT / PVN): Latvia’s standard VAT rate is 21%. This is calculated on the sum of the vehicle’s CIF value plus the Customs Duty.
- Excise Duty: This specific tax may be applied to certain vehicle types, particularly those with larger engine capacities or higher CO2 emissions. Rates are variable and can significantly impact the total cost.
Natural Resources Tax: A one-time tax imposed upon the initial registration of the vehicle (currently around €40 for cars, but subject to change).
- CO2 Emissions-Based Taxation: While not a direct import tax, Latvia’s annual vehicle operation tax heavily penalizes vehicles with higher CO2 emissions. This means older vehicles or those with lower Euro emission standards (e.g., below Euro 4/5) will incur significantly higher annual running costs.
- Euro Emission Standard: Imported vehicles must meet a minimum Euro emission standard. While there isn’t a fixed “age limit” for import, the substantial annual taxes on vehicles with lower Euro standards make them economically impractical to own and register. Generally, vehicles below Euro 4/5 are strongly discouraged due to prohibitive recurring costs.
- Left-Hand Drive (LHD) Requirement: Latvia operates on right-hand traffic. Consequently, Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles are the standard and a virtually mandatory requirement. Registering a Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicle is exceptionally challenging, often requiring extensive (and very costly) modifications or special permits that are rarely granted, making it generally unfeasible.
- Vehicle Condition and Salvage Titles: Vehicles with substantial damage, salvage titles, or those that fail to meet Latvia’s stringent safety and technical standards during the CSDD inspection are highly unlikely to be registered.
Crucial Update for 2025: As of January 1, 2025, all vehicles registered in third countries (non-EU/EEA/Switzerland) must be declared electronically with the CSDD (Road Traffic Safety Directorate) before entering Latvian territory.* This is a new, mandatory requirement, separate from the obligation to fully register the vehicle if used for more than three months. Failure to declare can result in fines ranging from €55 to €140.
It is absolutely imperative to obtain a precise calculation of these taxes and duties from a licensed Latvian customs broker before you ship your vehicle. Attempting to undervalue a vehicle for customs purposes is illegal and can lead to severe penalties.
- Budget for approximately 10% Duty + 21% VAT + potential Excise Duty, unless you qualify for transfer of residence relief.
- Ensure your vehicle adheres to at least Euro 4/5 emission standards to avoid excessive annual running costs.
- Your vehicle must be Left-Hand Drive (LHD). RHD vehicles face major hurdles for registration.
- From January 1, 2025, remember to declare your third-country vehicle with CSDD online before it enters Latvia, even for temporary use.
Post-Arrival Procedures: Clearance, Inspection, and Registration
Once your vehicle arrives at the Port of Riga and is offloaded, it proceeds through several crucial bureaucratic steps:
- Customs Clearance & Declaration: Your customs broker (strongly recommended) submits the import declaration and all supporting documents to the State Revenue Service (VID). This is also where any applications for transfer of residence relief are processed.
- Payment of Duties and Taxes: If applicable, all calculated customs duties, VAT, excise duty, and any other fees must be paid in full to the State Revenue Service.
- Customs Inspection & Release: Customs officials will conduct a physical inspection of the vehicle to verify its identity (VIN, engine number) and condition. Upon successful inspection and full payment/relief, a customs release document is issued.
CSDD Technical Assessment & Individual Homologation: This is a critical technical step for all imported vehicles from non-EU countries. The CSDD will:
- Verify the vehicle’s identity (VIN, engine number).
- Conduct tests to confirm compliance with Latvian/EU safety, technical, and environmental standards (e.g., lighting, brakes, emissions).
- If the vehicle does not have an EU Certificate of Conformity (common for US-spec cars), the CSDD will perform an “individual homologation” process, which may necessitate costly modifications (e.g., headlights for EU beam pattern, speedometer conversion to km/h, specific safety features).
- Issue a Latvian vehicle registration certificate (Reģistrācijas apliecība), indicating its Euro emission standard.
- Mandatory Insurance (OCTA): You must obtain compulsory civil liability insurance (OCTA – Obligātā civiltiesiskās atbildības apdrošināšana) from a Latvian insurer. This is a legal prerequisite for vehicle registration.
- Payment of Vehicle Operation Tax & Natural Resources Tax: These annual taxes and one-time fees are paid to the State Revenue Service based on the vehicle’s characteristics (engine size, CO2 emissions).
- Vehicle Registration (CSDD): With the customs release, the CSDD’s technical approval, proof of tax payments, and valid insurance, you can finally apply for Latvian license plates at a CSDD client service center.
- Engaging a local Latvian customs broker is highly recommended to navigate this multi-stage and often complex process efficiently.
- Be prepared for potential modifications to your US-spec vehicle after the CSDD inspection. These can be costly.
- Be aware that annual vehicle operation taxes can be very high for older or high-emission vehicles in Latvia.
RORO Shipping Costs to Riga, Latvia: A Financial Overview
The total financial outlay for shipping your car to Riga, Latvia, is a composite of the shipping service itself and a significant array of Latvian import duties, taxes, and local fees. Accurate budgeting requires understanding all these components.
RORO Shipping Prices (USA to Riga)
The fundamental RORO shipping cost is primarily determined by your vehicle’s dimensions (length, width, height) and the specific US departure port. Larger vehicles occupy more space, leading to higher freight charges. East Coast US ports (e.g., Baltimore, New York, Jacksonville, Miami) generally offer more direct and frequent sailings to Europe, often at more competitive rates.
- Estimated RORO Base Cost (USA to Riga): For a standard passenger car, anticipate costs ranging from approximately $1,500 to $4,500+ USD. This figure can fluctuate based on current fuel prices, the chosen shipping line, and overall market demand.
Significant Additional Costs in Latvia
Beyond the primary shipping fee, be prepared for substantial expenses once your vehicle arrives at the Port of Riga:
- USA Port Charges: These include fees for terminal handling, documentation, and security at the US departure port.
- Riga Port Fees: Charges for offloading, handling, and potential storage at the Port of Riga. Demurrage fees can apply if the car is not cleared within a grace period. These can range from a few hundred Euros.
- Customs Broker Fees: Engaging a licensed Latvian customs broker is highly advisable and often essential. Their fees can range from €300 to over €800, depending on the complexity of the import and the services rendered.
Latvian Import Taxes (unless exempt):
- Customs Duty: 10% of the vehicle’s CIF value.
- VAT (PVN): 21% of (CIF value + Customs Duty).
- Excise Duty: May apply to certain vehicles (e.g., based on engine size or CO2).
- Collectively, these taxes can represent 31% or more (potentially significantly higher with excise duty) of the vehicle’s declared value (including shipping costs).
- CSDD Technical Assessment & Homologation Fees: Costs for the mandatory technical assessment by the Road Traffic Safety Directorate. This can range from €200 to over €1,000, especially if an individual homologation process is required for non-EU spec vehicles.
Vehicle Modifications (if required): US-spec vehicles often need adjustments to comply with EU standards (e.g., headlights for EU beam patterns, speedometer conversion to km/h, specific safety features). The cost for these modifications can vary widely, from a few hundred to several thousand Euros.
- Local Annual Vehicle Operation Tax (Transportlīdzekļa ekspluatācijas nodoklis): A recurring annual tax based on engine size and CO2 emissions. This tax is considerably higher for older vehicles or those with poorer Euro emission standards, making them costly to operate in Latvia.
- Natural Resources Tax: A one-time tax paid upon vehicle registration (currently around €40).
- Local Registration & License Plate Fees: Official fees paid to CSDD for vehicle registration and obtaining Latvian license plates (typically a few tens of Euros).
- Compulsory Motor Third Party Liability Insurance (OCTA): Mandatory annual insurance that must be obtained from a Latvian insurer before registration. Premiums vary based on factors like engine size, driver’s age/experience, and vehicle age.
- Inland Transport in Latvia: If you require transport for your vehicle from the Port of Riga to another location in Latvia, additional costs will apply.
It is crucial to request a detailed, itemized quote that includes estimated port charges and, critically, a clear breakdown of potential Latvian import taxes and fees from your customs broker. In addition, This comprehensive financial planning is vital to avoid any unexpected burdens.
Recommended Shipping Insurance
While RORO shipping is known for its reliability and safety, securing comprehensive shipping insurance for your vehicle is highly advisable. This protects your financial investment against any unforeseen damage or loss that might occur during the ocean transit. You can typically choose coverage levels based on your vehicle’s declared value.
- Protect your asset by purchasing adequate transit insurance.
- Thoroughly understand the terms and coverage options available to you.
RORO vs. Container Shipping to Riga, Latvia
When making arrangements to transport your vehicle to Riga, Latvia, two primary methods are available: RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) and Container Shipping. The optimal choice depends on your specific needs and the nature of your vehicle.
RORO: The Preferred Method for Most Operable Vehicles
- Cost Efficiency: For the majority of standard, operable vehicles, RORO is typically the more economical option. It eliminates the additional costs associated with container rental, specialized loading, and bracing within a container.
- Speed and Frequency: RORO vessels often boast quicker port turnaround times and more frequent sailing schedules, potentially leading to faster overall transit durations.
- Simplicity: The process is straightforward: your vehicle is driven on, secured, and then driven off at the destination. This minimizes handling steps and associated risks.
- Versatility: RORO ships can accommodate a wide range of vehicle types, from sedans and SUVs to larger trucks and some types of machinery.
Container Shipping: For Specific Requirements
Container shipping involves loading your vehicle into either a standard 20-foot or 40-foot steel shipping container. This can be arranged as:
- Full Container Load (FCL): Your vehicle is the sole occupant of the container.
- Less than Container Load (LCL) / Shared Container: Your vehicle is loaded with other vehicles or goods to distribute the container cost.
Container shipping may be a more suitable choice if:
- Your Vehicle is Inoperable: If your car cannot be driven, it must be loaded into a container (or a specialized LoLo service), which incurs additional crane and handling fees.
- You Need to Ship Personal Belongings: While strictly regulated and generally not permitted with RORO, some container services might allow a limited number of personal effects inside the vehicle (with strict inventory requirements and at your own risk).
- You Desire Enhanced Security: A sealed container offers an additional layer of protection from the elements and potential tampering during transit.
- Your Vehicle is High-Value or Fragile: Although RORO is secure, some owners prefer the enclosed environment for extremely expensive or delicate vehicles.
However, container shipping to Latvia generally incurs higher costs due to the added expenses of container rental, specialized loading and securing, and drayage to/from the port terminal. Latvia typically has one primary container port for the entire country, which might also influence logistics for certain routes.
For most standard, operable vehicles destined for Riga, RORO remains the more practical, efficient, and cost-effective solution.
Essential Tips for a Successful Car Shipment to Riga
To ensure your RORO car shipment to Riga, Latvia, proceeds as smoothly as possible, meticulous planning and strict adherence to regulations are paramount.
1. Meticulous Documentation & Understanding Latvian Laws (CRITICAL for 2025!)
- Accuracy is Paramount: Any error or omission in your documents (Bill of Lading, Title, Bill of Sale) can lead to significant delays or rejection at customs.
- Understand Latvian Specifics: Thoroughly research and grasp Latvia’s vehicle import regulations, paying close attention to:
- Euro Emission Standards: Ensure your vehicle meets at least Euro 4/5, as lower standards result in prohibitively high annual taxes.
- Left-Hand Drive (LHD) Requirement: Only LHD vehicles are practically registrable. RHD vehicles face major hurdles.
- 2025 CSDD Declaration: Crucially, from January 1, 2025, you must declare any vehicle registered in a non-EU/EEA/Switzerland country with the CSDD electronically before it enters Latvian territory. This is mandatory, even for temporary use, and failure to comply incurs fines.
- Tax Exemptions: If you are a returning resident seeking duty/VAT exemption, diligently gather all required proof of residency abroad (12+ months) and vehicle ownership/use (6+ months).
- Keep Copies: Always maintain multiple physical and digital copies of all your critical shipping and import documents.
2. Prepare Your Vehicle Thoroughly (VERY Important!)
Proper preparation of your vehicle is crucial for both acceptance at the departure port and smooth customs inspection in Latvia.
- Remove Personal Items: Absolutely remove all personal belongings, valuables, and loose items from the vehicle’s interior and trunk. Latvian customs officials conduct thorough inspections, and finding personal effects can lead to significant delays, fines, or confiscation. In addition, only factory-installed components and tools should remain.
- Cleanliness: Ensure your car is reasonably clean, both inside and out, especially the undercarriage, to avoid any biosecurity issues during inspection.
- Fuel Level: Leave only a minimal amount of fuel in the tank (typically no more than 1/4 full) – just enough for the vehicle to be driven on and off the ship.
- Mechanical Check: Address any fluid leaks, ensure tires are properly inflated, and the battery is fully charged. Vehicles must be in operating condition for RORO shipment.
- Deactivate Alarms: Ensure any car alarms are deactivated to prevent them from draining the battery or causing issues during transit.
3. Partner with Experts (Highly Recommended!)
Your choice of shipping and customs partners will significantly influence the ease of your vehicle import.
- Reputable Shipping Company: Choose a company like All Transport Depot with a proven track record of successful RORO shipments to Latvia. Prioritize transparency in pricing and excellent customer support.
- Licensed Latvian Customs Broker: This is arguably the most critical tip. Navigating Latvian and EU customs regulations, calculating complex taxes, and coordinating with the CSDD (for technical assessment and the new 2025 declaration) can be daunting. However, A local customs broker with specific expertise in vehicle imports will be invaluable in streamlining the process, ensuring compliance, and helping you avoid costly mistakes. Research and select a reputable one well in advance.
Common Questions About RORO Shipping to Riga, Latvia
What exactly is RORO shipping?
RORO stands for Roll-On/Roll-Off. It’s a method where vehicles are driven onto a specialized ship at the origin port and driven off at the destination port.
How long does it take to ship a car from the USA to Riga, Latvia, via RORO?
Typically, transit times from the US East Coast range from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the specific origin port and the shipping line’s schedule.
Can I ship an inoperable car via RORO to Riga?
Generally, no. RORO services require vehicles to be operational and able to drive on and off the vessel. If your car is inoperable, container shipping or a specialized LoLo (Lift-on/Lift-off) service might be necessary, usually at a higher cost.
What are the main taxes on imported cars in Latvia?
For non-exempt vehicles, you will primarily pay a 10% Customs Duty on the CIF value and 21% VAT (PVN) on the CIF value plus the Customs Duty. Excise duty may also apply. Moreover, These can collectively amount to 31% or more of the vehicle’s value.
Are there age restrictions or emission standards for car imports into Latvia?
While there’s no strict “age limit” for import, Latvia’s vehicle taxation heavily penalizes older vehicles with lower Euro emission standards (e.g., below Euro 4/5) through significantly higher annual taxes, making them uneconomical to own. Your car must meet EU technical standards verified by CSDD.
What is the new CSDD declaration requirement for 2025?
Effective January 1, 2025, all vehicles registered in non-EU/EEA/Switzerland countries must be electronically declared with the Latvian Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) before entering Latvian territory. This is mandatory for any use, even temporary, and separate from full registration.
Does my car need to be Left-Hand Drive (LHD) to be registered in Latvia?
Yes, absolutely. Latvia drives on the right side of the road, and only Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles are typically permitted for standard registration. Registering a Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicle is extremely difficult and usually impractical due to complex and costly modification requirements or hard-to-obtain special permits.
Can I leave personal belongings inside my car during RORO shipment to Latvia?
No, this is strictly prohibited. For security, customs, and insurance reasons, all personal belongings, valuables, and loose items must be removed from the vehicle’s interior and trunk. However, the Discovery of such items can lead to significant delays, fines, or confiscation by Latvian customs.
What is the role of a customs broker in Latvia?
In general, A licensed Latvian customs broker is highly recommended. Additionally, they will guide you through complex customs procedures, prepare and submit declarations to the State Revenue Service (VID), assist with tax calculations, and coordinate with the CSDD for technical assessments and registration, saving you time and preventing costly errors.
Official Contacts for Car Import in Latvia
For the most accurate and current information regarding vehicle import to Latvia, always consult these official government entities directly or work through a reputable local customs broker.
Valsts ieņēmumu dienests (VID – State Revenue Service)
Address: Talejas iela 1, Riga, LV-1978, Latvia
Phone: +371 6712 3000
Email: vid@vid.gov.lv
Website: www.vid.gov.lv
Ryan is an experienced truck driver at Lone Star Auto Transport. He’s logged thousands of miles, safely delivering vehicles across the vast expanse of Texas and beyond. His commitment to on-time deliveries and vehicle care is unmatched.