E.A.I.V.T.

What E.A.I.V.T. does

E.A.I.V.T. (European Association of Independent Vehicle Traders) is a Brussels-headquartered, non-profit trade association (AISBL) founded in 1995 that represents independent car dealers and national dealer associations active in cross-border vehicle trade. The association campaigns for abolition of trade obstacles in cross-border car trade, elimination of manufacturer-imposed restrictions, improved access to technical vehicle data, harmonization of European registration processes, EU-wide COC document requirements, and clear VAT handling. Member companies must have operated in international car trade for at least three years and obtain ethical references from existing members before admission.

Core offerings include the EAIVT WALL (a proprietary community platform and B2B member database launched in its modern form in 2024), the annual International Markets Congress (a 2-day event hosting 300-400 delegates from 20-26 countries across rotating European cities), the Forum Future think-tank and road-show, and the hybrid Market Talk format. Membership is segmented into Independent Car Dealers (primary persona) and Associate Service Partners (logistics, freight forwarding, homologation, COC documentation, technical inspection, and B2B marketplaces such as ELN Systems, Noatum Autologistics and TÜV Nord). Underlying technology is minimal: the WALL is a hosted community platform rather than a proprietary tech stack, and the association's differentiation rests on regulatory access (direct EU Commission contacts since 2007; EU Motor Vehicles Working Group since 2008), curation of a vetted member network, and event-based convening rather than software or data assets.

Revenue comes primarily from recurring membership fees (undisclosed pricing) paid by both dealer members and Associate Service Partners, supplemented by event participation income from the annual Congress and Forum Future. The operation is run by only 5 staff supported by a 10+ country ambassador network and a volunteer board led since March 2026 by President Dirk van Meir (Netherlands), with Marco Belfanti serving as honorary president after 20+ years leading the association.

Name

E.A.I.V.T.

Legal name

E.A.I.V.T. European Association of Independent Vehicle Traders

Website

https://eaivt.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

1995

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

E.A.I.V.T. is a Brussels-headquartered non-profit trade association, founded 1995, representing independent vehicle dealers and national dealer associations across 25+ European countries through a vetted membership model, advocacy, the EAIVT WALL community platform, and an annual 2-day International Markets Congress drawing ~400 delegates.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Headquarters

HQ city

Brussels

HQ country

Belgium

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Membership Fees: EAIVT generates revenue through membership fees from car dealers and Associate Service Partners. Both regular members and associate service partners pay membership fees to join the association, though specific pricing is not publicly disclosed.

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels1 record

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

E.A.I.V.T. is a non-profit international trade association (AISBL) that represents independent vehicle dealers and national dealer associations active in cross-border European car trade. Its core offerings are membership-based: gated Membership for vetted independent dealers (3+ years in business with peer references) and Associate Service Partner status for non-dealer automotive service companies. Members access the proprietary EAIVT Wall community platform, the annual International Markets Congress, and Forum Future think tank events, and benefit from EU-level political advocacy for free trade in the automotive sector.

Product overview

E.A.I.V.T. (European Association of Independent Vehicle Traders) is a trade association for independent vehicle dealers, operating as a unified platform-plus-events model. The core offering is the EAIVT WALL, a proprietary member community platform providing B2B marketplace access, address directories, contact details, news, and fraud warnings. Supporting this are flagship events including the International Markets Congress (annual 2-day networking and business development conference) and the Forum Future (discussion-friendly think tank meetings). The association also offers Market Talk as a hybrid/online market analysis format. Membership requires 3+ years in business with ethical references, and the Associate Service Partner program provides non-dealer service providers access to the member network. Founded in Brussels in 1995, EAIVT advocates for free trade and represents independent dealers across Europe.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• EAIVT Wall Proprietary, dedicated community platform and member database for E.A.I.V.T. members and partners to exchange information, view event announcements, access warnings against fraudulent businesses, and connect with other independent vehicle dealers across Europe. Includes login-gated B2B Market directory showing company addresses and contact details.
• EAIVT International Markets Congress Flagship annual 2-day meeting bringing together 300-400 independent dealers, traders, and automotive service providers from 20-26 countries for networking, knowledge sharing, presentations, exhibitions, and business development. Venue rotates annually across European cities (e.g., Zurich 2026, Gothenburg 2027).
• EAIVT Forum Future Annual discussion-friendly Think Tank and Road Show enabling the E.A.I.V.T. board to share and explain current and future projects with members, featuring expert presentations and market-focused sessions. Typically attended by 50-70 participants from approximately 20 countries, held in different countries each year.
• EAIVT Market Talk Hybrid/online format derived from the Forum Future scheme that takes a critical look at the situation of the independent car trade in European core markets, featuring regional and national market presentations.
• EAIVT Membership Membership program for independent car dealers active in international cross-border trade who have been in business for at least 3 years. Requires submission of business model, board and Membership Panel examination, and references from existing EAIVT Members attesting to the applicant's business ethics. Grants access to the EAIVT Wall, congresses, Forum Future, advocacy, and the B2B network.
• EAIVT Associate Service Partner Program Status for automotive service companies (non-dealers) such as logistics providers, freight forwarders, homologation services, COC documentation, technical inspection providers, and AI/technology providers. Provides access to the EAIVT member network. EAIVT encourages its Members to use Associate Service Partners first; partners in turn commit to offer best terms to E.A.I.V.T. Members.

Quantifiable outcome

• EAIVT International Markets Congress 2027 expects 400 participants from 25 countries
• +1 more outcomes

Segments2 records

Ideal customer profiles2 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Partnerships

18 partnerships are on record, tiered minor and core.

• ALT&MEGminorOthersVehicle logistics and transportation company based in Durres (Albania). Provides reliable, secure and timely vehicle transportation services to automotive manufacturers, wholesalers, dealers, and car enthusiasts throughout Europe. Associate Service Partner of EAIVT.
• ASI – Auto Shipment GmbHminorOthersWorldwide automobile shipping services with weekly sailings from all US ports to main Europe entry ports. Offers customs brokerage, consulting, clearance, automotive services, door-to-door solutions, and intelligent transportation solutions. Associate Service Partner.
• Brockmüller SpeditionminorOthersFounded in 1962, provides transportation of passenger cars, vans, trucks, oversize/heavy machinery, spare parts, conventional transports (truck, container, railway, airfreight). Also handles projects for oil/gas, construction, mining companies, and transportation of dangerous goods/chemicals. Associate Service Partner.
• Cars2clickminorOthersAward-winning AI-driven digital car trader transforming the automotive industry. Recognized for AI Maria Database and GEOpricing technologies. Specializes in AI-based digital solutions for car dealers, OEMs, rental, leasing, and mobility companies. Established 2019, operates in over 20 European countries. Associate Service Partner.
• Container Freight Revolution GmbHminorOthersGlobal leader in freight forwarding and car shipping. Provides global door-to-door shipping solutions. Known for classic car and new vehicle transportation, also handles commercial freight, household goods, and complex projects including oversize and break-bulk cargo. Associate Service Partner.
• Cross Trans Service GmbHminorOthersExperienced freight forwarder providing transport solutions for vehicles since 1996. Major markets: USA, Japan, Middle/Far East, Eastern Europe including Ukraine and Russia. Growing UK network post-Brexit. Services: ocean freight, road haulage, air freight, covered transports for classic cars, inhouse storage for new vehicles, salvage car handling, customs clearance. Associate Service Partner.
• ELN Systems GmbHminorOthersGermany's most successful multi-brand vehicle selling system operating since 2003. With more than 60 wholesalers and approximately 800 resellers, it is Germany's largest B2B online car marketplace. Associate Service Partner.
• EuroCocminorOthersLeader in COC (Certificate of Conformity) mediation for vehicles. Through sophisticated document management systems, provides customer service to help register vehicles in EU countries. Associate Service Partner.
• Ingenieurbüro Lehnert GmbHminorOthersPart of Schumann group, contracted partner of GTÜ (German technical inspection service). Specializes in homologation of import vehicles from third countries manufactured in large series. Performs emissions measurements, noise measurements, and headlight technical assessments. Creates country-specific individual approvals for customers in and outside Europe. Associate Service Partner.
• Miradena Bremerhaven Homologation CenterminorOthersService company for car importers with expanded contact network and operations in Germany, USA, and Mexico. Provides turn-key solutions delivering complete, driveable vehicles to customers' garages. Associate Service Partner.
• NAP Manufaktur GmbHminorOthersDevelops and manufactures exclusive automotive parts in small series for over 25 years. Produces individual parts for homologation of import vehicles. On request, transforms imports into special series with unique selling points. Associate Service Partner.
• Noatum Autologistics Spain S.L.U.minorOthersPart of AD Ports Group, focused on finished vehicle transport and distribution. Provides highest quality service with international team of experts, robust operational processes, and high-end IT systems. Designs optimized European routes through cost-efficient solutions. Associate Service Partner.
• T.I.M.E. CargominorOthersFreight forwarding company with over fifteen years of experience. Built network of warehouses in Canada/USA to service exports worldwide. Mission includes respecting proprietary information, efficiency and flexibility required in car industry trade. Associate Service Partner.
• TÜV Nord Mobility GmbH & Co. KgminorOthersOfficially recognized experts, test technicians, and engineers performing periodic technical inspections required by law. Provides expertise and experience in technical vehicle inspections. Associate Service Partner.
• IMTF Forum - The International Motor Trade ForumcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPremier forum and unique global networking platform for automotive industry professionals including independent dealers. Initiated by independent, free dealers. Dedicated to optimizing operations of official car importers, dealerships, fleet owners, leasing companies, and logistics partners. Neutral with no affiliation to specific brands or political viewpoints. Held annually in Dubai/Abu Dhabi since 2019. EAIVT hosts sessions and collaborates on shared industry topics.
• BVFK - Bundesverband freier Kfz-HändlercoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerRepresents interests of reputable independent car dealers in Germany. Members include businesses in new, used, and classic car trade, as well as automotive intermediary business. Approximately 1,000 dealers organized. Active for over 25 years since founding in 2000. Performs political work and combats unprofessional business practices.
• NAATA - North American Automobile Trade AssociationcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerRepresents interests of vehicle dealers who import and export motor vehicles across international borders. Keeps members updated on current and future issues about cross-border vehicle market. Provides information needed to run profitable and effective businesses.
• VFAS - Verband freier Autohandel SchweizcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerRepresents interests of independent and free car trade in Switzerland. Resists all restrictions and impediments to free car trade. Committed to promoting free trade with authorities. Sets standards for high quality in car trade. Promotes dialog among dealers in B2B business.

Scale indicators4 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• BVFK - Bundesverband freier Kfz-Händler: German national association of independent car dealers, representing approximately 1,000 dealers active for over 25 years. Listed as a Strategic/Co-development partner of EAIVT; serves the same independent dealer constituency at national level and is structurally analogous as a peer trade body.
• NAATA - North American Automobile Trade Association: Represents interests of vehicle dealers who import and export motor vehicles across international borders, with a particular focus on US-Canada flows. Listed as a Strategic Partner of EAIVT; serves the same cross-border dealer niche in North America.
• VFAS - Verband freier Autohandel Schweiz: Swiss association representing interests of independent and free car trade, resisting restrictions and promoting free trade with authorities. Listed as a Strategic Partner of EAIVT; structurally identical national trade body serving Swiss independent dealers.
• IMTF Forum - The International Motor Trade Forum: Premier global networking forum for independent automotive dealers, importers, fleet owners, and logistics partners, held annually in Dubai/Abu Dhabi since 2019. Listed as a Strategic Partner of EAIVT; targets an overlapping constituency of international independent motor trade professionals.
• Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI): UK trade body representing the retail motor industry, including independent and franchised dealers. Analogous in function to EAIVT (membership, advocacy, events) but with a UK national scope and a broader (franchised + independent) membership.

Others

• European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA): Brussels-based lobbying association representing European car, truck, and bus manufacturers. Adjacent to EAIVT in the European automotive value chain and EU policy arena, but represents the OEM side rather than independent dealers (often an opposing party in EAIVT's advocacy positions).
• AutoCare Association: US trade association for the automotive aftermarket, representing parts manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Thematically related (automotive trade association) but focused on parts rather than vehicle dealers; useful as a comparator for association operating models.

Broad incumbents

• National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA): Largest US trade association representing franchised new-car dealers. Much broader in scope than EAIVT (covering franchised OEMs, not just independents), but provides an analogous association-based model for dealer advocacy and industry events.
• Automotive Service Association (ASA): US trade association for automotive service businesses including independent dealers, service shops, and collision repair. Broader scope than EAIVT (service-focused) but operates the same association model for member services and industry advocacy.

Regional players

• Independent Automobile Dealers Association of Canada: Canadian association representing independent used vehicle dealers. Targets an overlapping independent-dealer constituency with EAIVT but in a different geography (Canada vs Europe), making it a regional peer.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/eaivt-the-european-association-of-independent-vehicle-traders

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about E.A.I.V.T.