In recent years, with the general increase in prices, many people are choosing to buy second-hand vehicles.
Most of these are German cars, caravans or motorhomes.
Thanks to the boom in second-hand vehicles, many dealers have seen a business opportunity and are offering their customers this much more economical option.
Whether you are an individual who wants to bring a vehicle to the UK or a dealer who imports vehicles, you will most likely need a Certificate of Conformity.
What is the Certificate of Conformity (COC)?
It is a statement from the vehicle manufacturer stating that your vehicle complies with EU regulations in force at the time of manufacture.
It covers various aspects, such as emissions, safety features and noise levels. Without a valid COC, registering your imported vehicle in any EU or EEA country can be difficult, if not impossible.
It is an essential document for manufacturers, consumers (of new and used vehicles), dealers and, above all, regulatory bodies.
When is it necessary?
The COC is necessary and essential in certain situations:
- If you have a used vehicle dealership, whether imported or not.
- If you have purchased a vehicle abroad and wish to import and register it in your country.
- If you plan to move to another country and export and register your vehicle in your new place of residence.
- If you have lost the original document and wish to obtain it for administrative purposes.
- If the authorities request specific information about a technical feature of the vehicle that is not detailed in the vehicle documents.
In fact, it is a document that you will always be given when you buy a new vehicle.
So why do I need a new one?
Simply because this certificate is often lost or the seller forgets to provide it, especially if it is a private sale.
How to obtain the European Certificate of Conformity for your vehicle
As a general rule, the manufacturer itself can provide you with a new certificate. The problem is that, as this is not their main activity, it often takes several months to deliver and is very expensive.
What are the advantages of purchasing a COC with GetCOC?
We have been in the sector for years and have been able to refine and improve our service:
- You will receive the COC Document within days.
- Unlike the high prices charged by the brands, we offer the COC at a much more affordable and reasonable price.
- We will send it to you in online (PDF) and physical format to the address of your choice.
- Shipping is free.
- It is an official document signed by the manufacturer.
- You can track the status of your order.
- If you are a dealer, you will receive a volume discount.
If you have any questions, we will assist you in your language.
What steps do you need to take?
- Select your vehicle's brand. The COC will be valid regardless of whether you choose the brand or the specific model.
- Enter the chassis number (VIN code).
- Choose the delivery option and receive it instantly in PDF format and in a few days at the address of your choice.
What information must the COC contain?
The certificate includes both technical aspects of the vehicle, as well as environmental and safety aspects.
Among the most important data are:
- The vehicle identification number (chassis number or VIN).
- European type-approval number, which indicates whether the vehicle has been modified.
- Make, model and version.
- Manufacturer's details.
- Technical specifications of the engine (engine size, power, fuel type).
- Vehicle dimensions (length, width, height).
- Total weight and maximum load of the vehicle.
- Information on emissions, fuel consumption and compliance with European regulations such as Euro 6.
- Vehicle safety equipment (active and passive).
Frequently asked questions
We answer the most common questions about the Certificate of Conformity.
Is the Certificate of Conformity the same as the Spanish ficha reducida document?
Although the reduced technical data sheet also contains information on the technical characteristics of the vehicle, it is only valid in Spain. If you want to take your car to another country, you will need the Certificate of Conformity.
Furthermore, while the reduced data sheet is signed by an engineer, the COC is an official document from the manufacturer.
Do I need a Certificate of Conformity if I import my car from the United Kingdom?
Yes, although the United Kingdom is no longer part of the EU, it continues to accept the European Certificate of Conformity. However, future revisions to this law are expected.
All products manufactured in the country will be regulated by the UKCA marking from 2024.
Do I need a Certificate of Conformity if I bring my car from Morocco, Dubai, Japan, Canada or the United States?
If you bring your vehicle to any EU or EEA country from a non-EU or non-EEA country, the procedure will be different.
You will need individual approval and then you can obtain the COC to register your vehicle and drive legally in the EU.
