Paying for a car abroad

[marcus]

Does anybody have experience of buying a car abroad?

I may at last have found a very suitable Series 3.

However, the car is in the CZ and whilst I have no problem with flying over and possibly doing a deal with a view to driving back to the UK, I'm not certain of the best way to pay.

Taking a wedge of cash either in GBP or Czech Koruna may not be the safest.

A cursory search on the internet indicates that an electronic/telephone transfer can take from 24 to 48 hrs.

I don't think I'd be totally happy waiting a day or so for funds to be deposited in a stranger's account abroad having agreed to buy the car, yet not certain it would be given to me.

I presume there's a degree of trust involved here.

Any advice gratfully received.

[JagTheOne]

Hi, I bought my car also in Czech Republic. I was decided to buy the car before I went there to see it so I have prepared purchase contract before with the seller. We agreed to paid approximately 2/3 after signing of purchase contract by bank transfer and the rest cash after delivery of the car everything Euro. I came there, saw the car, we signed the papers, he gave me all the papers like purchase contract, customs declaration, keys, etc (all originals, no copies) and we agreed when the car will be delivered. After that I sent him the money and was waiting for the car.

Martin

[marcus]

OK thanks Martin.

I certainly have time to consider the best option and will bear your method in mind.

Come to think of it, taking cash sewn into my clothes (!) may not be such a bad idea. At least that way it's a simple exchange over the kitchen table for the docs/keys etc.

[mgcjag]

Hi Murcus.....have a look at one of the currency conversion companies I used currencies direct for an overseas deal......you get a great exchange rate and they are a very professional co........re driving the car home........wouldnt it be best to have it transported..driving an unknown car that distance could prove expensive and end up on a trailer home.....good luck Steve

[Zei220]

I used currencyfair and found them both fast and efficient. The exchange rate they offered was better than any of the other dealers.

[marcus]

Steve.

Point taken re trailer.
However, it would be a journey to remember and record for posterity. You never know, I might make it back without any breakdowns. Obviously I'll insure for breakdown possibility anyway, if I can.

The car in question has been totally restored and the engine has been rebuilt and covered approx 4000 miles since. Should be reliable!

[paydase]

Steve.

Point taken re trailer.
However, it would be a journey to remember and record for posterity. You never know, I might make it back without any breakdowns. Obviously I'll insure for breakdown possibility anyway, if I can.

The car in question has been totally restored and the engine has been rebuilt and covered approx 4000 miles since. Should be reliable!

Reliability and driveability depend very much on when the car was last driven/maintained since the full restoration. If parked in a garage since months or years, it may present issues e.g. in the braking system.

You better check beforehand!