How does the BPM calculator work?
The BPM calculator determines how much BPM (vehicle purchase tax) you owe when converting a commercial van to a camper in the Netherlands. The calculation is based on official rates and the statutory depreciation table from the Dutch Tax Authority.
Calculating gross BPM
The gross BPM is calculated as: net catalogue price × 37.7%, corrected for fuel type. For petrol vehicles, 1,283 euros is subtracted; for diesel, 273 euros is added. For electric vehicles, a flat rate of 667 euros applies (2025). The net catalogue price is the original new price excluding VAT and BPM.
Statutory depreciation
The Dutch Tax Authority uses a fixed depreciation table based on the age of the vehicle. The older the van, the higher the depreciation percentage and therefore the lower the BPM you owe. Depreciation starts at 12% after 1 month and rises to over 80% after 10 years. After approximately 15 years, depreciation reaches 100%. The net BPM is: gross BPM minus the depreciation amount.
Licence plate lookup
Through the RDW licence plate check, the tool automatically retrieves vehicle data: catalogue price, fuel type and date of first registration. This saves you from searching manually and prevents input errors. The licence plate is only sent to the RDW and is not stored anywhere else.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I have to pay BPM when converting to a camper?
A commercial van on grey plates has a 0% BPM exemption. When re-registering as a motorhome, this exemption is revoked and BPM must be paid retrospectively. The amount depends on the original catalogue price and the age of the vehicle.
How does the depreciation table work?
The Tax Authority uses fixed depreciation percentages per month of age. After 1 month the depreciation is 12%, after 1 year around 36%, after 5 years around 60% and after 10 years over 80%. After approximately 15 years, the depreciation reaches 100% and no BPM is owed. The older your van, the less BPM you pay.
Do I have to pay BPM for an electric vehicle?
Yes — electric vehicles are also subject to BPM when re-registered as a motorhome. The rate is a flat amount of 667 euros (2025). The same statutory depreciation applies as for fuel-powered vehicles.
When do I have to pay the BPM?
The BPM must be paid before re-registration with the RDW. You file a return with the Tax Authority and pay the calculated amount. Only after receiving proof of payment can you proceed with the RDW inspection and re-registration.
Is a camper conversion always BPM-free?
No, only if you meet the RDW requirements for a camper vehicle (N1-G registration). Your van must have at least a fixed sleeping place, cooking facility and seating with table.
When is the BPM benefit greatest?
The newer and more expensive the van, the more BPM you save. For a 3-5 year old van the tipping point is usually most favourable. The BPM calculator shows this in the timeline.