How much does it cost to clear a car from Georgia through Russian customs?
What makes up the cost and why to calculate it in advance.
Short answer
Clearing a car from Georgia through Russian customs as a private individual involves a single customs duty based on the car's age and engine size, a recycling fee and a processing fee. Since late 2025, the preferential recycling fee for individuals applies only to cars up to 160 horsepower, so more powerful cars need especially careful calculation. Work out the exact amount for your car on the Russian Federal Customs Service website or with a customs broker.
Why
- For cars aged 3-5 years, duty is calculated on engine size; for new cars, on value.
- Russia raised the recycling fee several times in 2024-2025.
- Clearing cars older than 5 years is usually uneconomical due to high rates.
Details
Besides the fees, budget for transport via Upper Lars, broker services and getting the car's documents in Russia. Georgia charges no export duty, but the car must be deregistered.
Tip
Before buying, calculate the duty and recycling fee with the Russian customs calculator, or the savings may disappear.
Common misconception
Clearing a car from Georgia through customs is always cheaper than buying one in Russia.
What actually happens
It isn't always cheaper: duty and recycling fees for powerful or older cars can wipe out the price difference.
People also ask
- How much does it cost to import a car from Georgia to Russia?
Sources
This answer is for reference only and is not a substitute for advice from a lawyer or customs broker. Rules change, so check official websites.
Related questions
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How much does car rental cost in Georgia, and what do you need?
Car rental prices in Georgia depend heavily on season, car class and duration: summer and holidays cost more, while off-season and week-plus rentals make the daily rate much cheaper.
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Where can you buy car insurance in Georgia?
If you enter Georgia in a foreign-registered car, you need mandatory third-party liability insurance, bought at the border or online before entry for the length of your trip.
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How far over the speed limit can you go in Georgia, and what are the fines?
In Georgia you are fined for exceeding the limit by more than 15 km/h: under amendments passed by parliament in June 2026, 15-30 km/h over costs 50 GEL, 30-50 km/h over 100 GEL, and more than 50 km/h over 300 GEL.
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Can you buy a car in Georgia and drive it in Russia on Georgian plates?
A foreigner can buy a car in Georgia and register it in their name at the Service Agency, receiving Georgian plates.


