Our History
About CarTurf
How we got started and where we’re going
Our Mission
Our Mission Is To Make owning and driving a car in Europe as a foreigner accessible
Imagine the freedom and comfort of exploring Europe in your very own car. Currently, there are no reliable solutions to assist visitors in purchasing and registering vehicles in Europe for that unparalleled travel experience. While train travel may be suitable for backpackers and solo adventurers, it can be draining for those embarking on extended journeys or traveling with children.
Consider renting a vehicle as an alternative; however, the steep costs of long-term rentals might leave you questioning its value. Don’t you deserve a more convenient, personalized, and cost-effective way to experience the beauty and charm of Europe?
CarTurf was created to fill the void between these less-desirable alternatives. And the best part is you can skip all the bureaucracy. CarTurf gets a ready-to-drive vehicle all to yourself when you step off the plane in Europe.
where did the idea for CarTurf come from?
The opportunity to register a European vehicle happened almost by accident. Marcus, living in Moscow since 2012, began actively planning to purchase a car for his soon-to-be family of four in early 2014, as they anticipated the arrival of their second child.
Public transportation had efficiently served Marcus when he was single, and continued to do as he and his wife were newlyweds, even accommodating their first child. However, with two small children, public transportation no longer met their needs in various situations. Marcus, missing the excitement of road trips, took action to secure a car for his growing family.
Purchasing a car in Germany
Upon learning from friends in Russia about the excellent condition and reasonable prices of used cars from Germany, Marcus took decisive action. He and his wife traveled to Germany for a few weeks to plan for their second child’s birth and secured a well-priced 2003 Audi Avant wagon for €4200, a bargain compared to similar vehicles in Moscow.
Marcus promptly registered the car at his aunt’s address in Hannover, Germany, and enjoyed driving it for several months. Eventually, he prepared for a memorable road trip back to Moscow, Russia, with his growing family.
let’s thank high import fees
Determined to import the car to Russia temporarily (free for personal use up to 1 year) and eventually pay import duties for Russian plates, Marcus encountered an unexpected obstacle: import duties of nearly €7000! Despite this major oversight, Marcus remained undeterred, knowing that where there’s a will, there’s a way.
After departing Germany with German plates, Marcus discovered that his car was automatically de-registered when the registration office learned he had left Germany indefinitely. Fortunately, Marcus’ cousin stepped in, visiting the German DMV to find a solution. They suggested that the cousin become an authorized recipient for any correspondence related to a registered car in Germany. This allowed Marcus to maintain his German plates and renew his temporary import in Russia annually until 2019.
The Audi’s return to Germany
Marcus and his family packed their belongings into their reliable 2003 Audi Avant wagon and relocated to Germany by the end of 2019. They confirmed their theory that paying German auto insurance, annual German car tax, and basic auto insurance in Russia still cost less than the import duties to Russia and back to Germany years later.
Unfortunately, after braving the rugged Russian roads, the Audi’s time had come, and the family bid it a heartfelt farewell. Forever grateful for the Audi’s service, Marcus and his family purchased and registered another used vehicle in Germany, excited for the adventures in their new German car.
COVID and its affects on the way we work
As the COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, companies globally adapted by embracing remote work. Consequently, the desire to capitalize on the freedom to travel and work remotely surged.
Faced with travel restrictions in numerous countries, people opted for road trips over alternatives like flying and train travel, especially to destinations with fewer restrictions. This shift in preference led to a skyrocketing demand for not only cars but campervans and motorhomes across Europe.
A market in need of an innovative solution
In early 2023, Marcus rediscovered the exhilaration of European road trips while taking his family on adventures in rented campervans. Sharing his experiences with friends and family outside Europe, as well as engaging in discussions with digital nomad groups, Marcus became determined to enable non-EU residents to experience the joys of driving their own car in Europe.
After thorough market research and extensive consultations with German DMV and insurance companies, Marcus officially established CarTurf. Now, individuals from outside Europe can register their EU cars and explore the vast European landscape and beyond at their own pace and in complete comfort.
Healthy Growth in just oNE Year!
Within the first year of CarTurf operating, we’ve helped dozens of people find, register and insure their vehicles to use all over Europe. Our customers have traveled Scandinavia, the UK, all over the EU, Eastern Europe, Turkey and even Canada, the USA and Africa!
CarTurf has seen 10x growth from late 2023, doubled its team and launched the development of a custom app to help road trippers in Europe! Our team has received overwhelming support from our customers and we’re extremely grateful to those rallying behind us!
It all started with an itch that needing scratching
Our Team
Meet The Team
Marcus Hudson
COO
Oksana Hudson
CEO
top cars
Want to drive in Europe in style?
CarTurf helps you register any car or other type of vehicle that can be purchased in Europe.
German-made cars are well-known for their design and comfort. No need to take our word for it. We’ll help you buy and register a car of your choosing whatever that may be, German or not.
Testimonials
Customers Love Us
We’re loyal to our customers.
