Imagine collecting your brand-new Mercedes-Benz directly from the heart of its birthplace. The Mercedes-Benz European Delivery Program offers an unparalleled experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the brand’s rich heritage while saving money and enjoying a European vacation. For 2024, this program continues to be a premier option for discerning buyers seeking a unique and memorable car purchasing journey.
Mercedes-Benz stands as a testament to automotive innovation and engineering excellence, tracing its roots back to Karl Benz, the creator of the first automobile in 1886. With over 100,000 patents to their name, Mercedes-Benz remains at the forefront of automotive technology. The European Delivery Program extends this legacy, offering you a chance to become part of the Mercedes-Benz story firsthand.
Whether you envision cruising through picturesque Alpine villages or exploring the scenic European countryside, the European Delivery Program provides the perfect starting point. Beyond the unforgettable experience, you can also benefit from savings of up to 7% on the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of your vehicle, depending on the chosen model. Availability and discounts can vary, so it’s best to confirm the specifics for your desired Mercedes-Benz.
Select and Build Your European Delivery Vehicle
Unpacking the Mercedes-Benz European Delivery Experience in 2024
The Mercedes-Benz European Delivery Program is designed to be an all-inclusive experience, making it seamless and enjoyable from start to finish. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect in 2024:
Comprehensive Inclusions for a Premium Journey
Your European Delivery package is meticulously crafted to provide exceptional value and convenience, encompassing a range of benefits:
- MSRP Savings: Enjoy savings of up to 7% on the base MSRP for eligible Mercedes-Benz models. This discount alone can significantly offset the cost of your European adventure.
- Airline Voucher: Receive a Delta Air Lines voucher valued at $200 to assist with your travel arrangements to Europe.
- Luxury Accommodation: Begin your journey with a complimentary one-night stay in a luxurious hotel in either Stuttgart or Bremen. These cities are home to the Mercedes-Benz factories and Delivery Centers, placing you at the heart of the experience.
- Exclusive Dining: Indulge in breakfast or lunch at the Delivery Center restaurant in Sindelfingen or Bremen. This provides a taste of local cuisine in a unique setting.
- Convenient Transportation: Benefit from a taxi credit to cover your ride from the airport or main railway station to your hotel or the Delivery Center, ensuring a smooth arrival.
- European Road Insurance: Drive with peace of mind knowing you have 15 days of European Road Insurance with zero deductible. This comprehensive coverage allows you to explore Europe without worry.
- Mercedes-Benz Museum Tickets: Immerse yourself in the history of Mercedes-Benz with complimentary tickets to the renowned Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
- Factory Tour: Gain exclusive access to a Mercedes-Benz factory tour, witnessing firsthand the precision and craftsmanship that goes into creating these exceptional vehicles. This is a highlight for any automotive enthusiast.
- Full Tank of Fuel: Start your European road trip with a full tank of fuel, courtesy of Mercedes-Benz.
- European Drop-off Network: Conveniently drop off your Mercedes-Benz at any of the eleven designated locations across Europe when your trip concludes.
- Shipping to the U.S.: Mercedes-Benz manages the conveyance from the European drop-off point to the port of shipment and ocean freight to a U.S. port.
- Marine Insurance: Your vehicle is protected during its ocean voyage with marine insurance.
- Vehicle Preparation: Upon arrival in the U.S., your Mercedes-Benz undergoes Vehicle Preparation Center Processing to ensure it meets factory standards and is ready for delivery.
- Transportation to Dealership: Mercedes-Benz arranges transportation of your vehicle to your chosen selling/delivering dealership.
- Waived Destination Charge: The standard destination charge of $925 is waived, adding to your overall savings.
Drop-Off Locations and Hotel Options for Your European Adventure
Your Mercedes-Benz European Delivery journey is designed for flexibility, offering a range of drop-off points across Europe and comfortable hotel accommodations to suit your travel plans.
Convenient Drop-Off Points Across Europe
Mercedes-Benz provides a network of eleven drop-off locations strategically positioned throughout Europe, allowing you to tailor your road trip and easily return your vehicle when you are ready to head home. These locations include major cities and transport hubs:
- Madrid, Spain: Auto Turistica Iberica (ATI) offers drop-off services with prior arrangement and an additional charge.
- London, UK (Extra Charge): Rental UK at Heathrow Airport provides drop-off, but it’s not included in the standard package and incurs an extra charge.
- Paris, France: TT CAR TRANSIT-CDG Airport, conveniently located at Charles de Gaulle Airport.
- Geneva, Switzerland: Ritschard SA, near Geneva Airport, offering services with specific operating hours.
- Nice, France: TT Car Transit at Nice Airport Terminal 2, providing easy airport access.
- Bremerhaven, Germany: BLG Car Shipping GmbH & Co. KG, a key German port city.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands: United Stevedoring Amsterdam, located in the port area of Amsterdam.
- Frankfurt, Germany: BLG Auto Transport GmbH & Co. KG, close to Frankfurt Airport.
- Sindelfingen, Germany: Simovic Car Service, near the Mercedes-Benz factory in Sindelfingen.
- Zurich, Switzerland: Gondrand LTD, near Zurich Airport, offering services with specific hours.
- Hamburg, Germany: BLG Auto Terminal GmbH & Co. KG, a major port city in northern Germany.
- Berlin, Germany: BLG Industrielogistik GmbH & Co. KG in Falkensee, just outside Berlin.
- Munich, Germany: LOGINOUT GmbH, conveniently located at Munich Airport.
- Koper, Slovenia (Extra Charge): BLG CarShipping Koper d.o.o, a port city, available at an extra charge and not part of the standard package.
- Italy: Drop-off in Italy requires prior arrangements and incurs an additional charge. Vehicles are transported to Munich for shipment.
Luxurious Hotel Accommodations
Mercedes-Benz partners with a selection of distinguished hotels in Germany and Austria to enhance your European Delivery experience. Your package includes a one-night stay at your choice of hotel in Stuttgart or Bremen, setting the stage for your adventure. Hotel options include:
- Baiersbronn: Hotel Traube Tonbach, a historic Black Forest hotel known for its luxury and hospitality.
- Hinterzarten: Parkhotel Adler, a family-owned hotel in the Black Forest with extensive parkland.
- Stuttgart: Graf Zeppelin, offering elegance and comfort in downtown Stuttgart.
- Stuttgart: Hotel am Schlossgarten, a 5-star hotel near Stuttgart’s castle gardens and shopping area.
- Lindau: The Villino, located in Lindau, Germany, offering charming accommodation.
- Telfs-Buchen: Interalpen-Hotel Tyrol, nestled in the Tyrolean Mountains with extensive facilities.
- Hohenschwangau: Hotel Mueller, near Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles.
- Munich: The Charles Hotel, a stylish five-star hotel in Munich with spa and city views.
- Munich: Hotel Königshof, in Munich city center, known for its Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Munich: Hotel Bayerischer Hof, a historic hotel in the heart of Munich, offering fine dining.
- Salzburg: Hotel Goldener Hirsch, near Mozart’s house in Salzburg, Austria, with a bohemian design.
Navigating Your Mercedes-Benz European Delivery in 2024: Key Information
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable Mercedes-Benz European Delivery experience in 2024, here are answers to frequently asked questions:
Purchasing and Ordering
Can I order a non-U.S. specification vehicle?
No, Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) can only process orders for vehicles built to U.S. specifications to comply with regulations and ensure seamless registration and service in the United States.
Is leasing an option for European Delivery?
Yes, you can lease a Mercedes-Benz through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services and pick it up in Germany. However, leased vehicles have a maximum stay of one month in Europe.
What if I need to cancel my order?
You can cancel your order, but a $200 cancellation fee will be applied to cover processing costs.
Insurance and Coverage
Which countries are covered by the European Delivery insurance?
The AXA Insurance coverage included in the program is valid within the geographical borders of Europe, providing broad coverage for your travels.
Can I extend the duration of my insurance?
Yes, if you plan a longer European stay, you can purchase extended insurance for up to twelve months. It’s crucial to arrange this at least two weeks before your delivery date through your dealer, as extending the initial registration and insurance later is not possible.
Am I required to use the insurance provided by Mercedes-Benz?
Yes, to ensure seamless processing and compliance with program terms, all vehicles in the European Delivery Program must be covered by AXA Insurance provided through Mercedes-Benz.
Driving and Touring in Europe
How long can I drive my Mercedes-Benz in Europe?
If you purchase your vehicle, you can drive it in Europe for up to twelve months. For leased vehicles, the maximum period is thirty days. The International Registration is tied to your insurance duration, with a maximum validity of twelve months from the registration date. Remember that German Export Registration Plates are not valid in the U.S.
Do I need an International Driver’s License?
While not always mandatory, an International Driver’s License is recommended, especially if you plan to drive in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. It can be obtained from AAA locations in the U.S.
Will I be subject to European road taxes?
If your European Road Insurance/Registration exceeds three months, you will be liable for road tax, payable upon vehicle pick-up in Germany.
Are toll stickers necessary for European highways?
Yes, toll stickers (“Vignette” in Italian, “Vignetten” in German) are mandatory on highways in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. These can be purchased at gas stations and border crossings. Non-compliance can result in significant fines.
Will navigation work in Europe?
The European Navigation package is compatible with all Mercedes-Benz models offered through the European Delivery Program. Upon your vehicle’s return to the U.S., the navigation system will be updated with U.S. maps by the Vehicle Preparation Center. If your vehicle is equipped with BECKER PILOT MAPS (code 001), this system is not compatible with European maps. However, a portable navigation system will be provided at the Delivery Center for your European travels at no extra cost. This unit must be returned when you drop off your vehicle.
Are there extra hotel charges for additional occupants?
Hotel policies vary, and many hotels charge extra for additional guests, including children. Check with your specific hotel for rates.
What are the winter driving regulations in Europe, particularly Austria and Germany?
From November through April, winter tires are mandatory in winter driving conditions in many European countries, including Austria and Germany. It is the driver’s responsibility to comply with local regulations. Using all-season tires marked “M+S” (code R02) meets winter tire requirements in both Germany and Austria. Failure to comply in Austria can result in fines up to €5,000.
Are there child safety seat requirements?
German law mandates the use of child safety seats for children under 12 years of age and shorter than 50 inches tall. Ensure you comply with these regulations for child passenger safety.
Vehicle Delivery to the US
What documents are needed for U.S. customs clearance?
U.S. Customs requires specific documentation for vehicle import clearance, including:
- A copy of your passport or driver’s license.
- Your Social Security number (or IRS ID Number/EID if the purchase is under a company name).
- Your U.S. street address (P.O. Boxes are not accepted).
Providing this information is essential for customs clearance.
What items can I leave in the car for shipment?
Marine Insurance only covers factory-installed equipment listed on your Confirmation of Order/Invoice. Personal belongings or aftermarket accessories are not covered and are not permitted by shipping lines or U.S. Customs.
What is the estimated shipping time to the United States?
Shipping times vary depending on your drop-off location and U.S. destination port:
- East Coast Ports: Approximately 6-8 weeks from drop-off in Germany to the U.S. port.
- West Coast Ports: Approximately 8-10 weeks from drop-off in Germany to the U.S. port.
Allow an additional week for customs processing and ten working days for Vehicle Preparation Center processing. Drop-offs outside of Germany may add up to three weeks to the total transport time.
The Mercedes-Benz European Delivery Program 2024 offers a unique blend of luxury, savings, and adventure. It’s an exceptional way to purchase your new Mercedes-Benz, creating lasting memories while experiencing the brand’s heritage firsthand. For those looking for an unforgettable car buying experience, the European Delivery Program remains an unparalleled choice in 2024.
