Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Navigation Available For European Delivery Orders?
European Navigation
The European Navigation for Model Year 2010 C,E,CLS,SLK,SL,S and GLK-Class will not be available until further notice. The Delivery Center will provide a portable navigation system at no additional cost to European Delivery orders equipped with navigation. The unit must be returned at time of drop off. The customer will be required to provide a credit card in the event the portable navigation unit is lost, stolen, damaged, or otherwise not returned.
Q. What is the European/Austrian law for winter travel?
While traveling in Europe during the months of November through April, it is the responsibility of the car owner/driver of a European Delivery vehicle to adhere to local traffic regulations, which require that a vehicle must be operated on winter tires in winter - like conditions and is required to take appropriate measures for travel in prevailing weather conditions.
As stated in the vehicle's Operator's Manual, always use winter tires at temperatures below 45 degrees F (7 degrees C) and whenever wintry road conditions prevail. See your Operator's Manual for specific details concerning operation of your vehicle, including information concerning approved tires for winter driving conditions.
While traveling in Austria during winter months of November through April, you must operate your vehicle on winter tires. If you disregard this, your can be assessed with a fine of up to 5.000 euros.
Q. Are there any requirements for child safety?
German law requires the use of a child safety seat for any child less than 12 years of age and less than 50" tall. If you are traveling with a child fitting this criteria, please bring a child safety seat to Germany.
Q. How Long Can The Automobile Be Driven In Europe?
Up to a maximum of twelve (12) months if purchased, thirty (30) days if leased. The International Registration is limited to the duration of insurance, however not exceeding a maximum period of twelve (12) months from the date of registration. The German Export Registration Plates are not valid in the U.S. Free shipment to the U.S. expires after 12 months.
Q. How Much Time Does It Take From Drop-Off To U.S. Dealership?
This depends on the drop-off location. If the car is dropped off within Germany it takes approximately 6-8 weeks to the East Coast; 8-10 weeks to the West Coast. If dropped off outside of Germany an additional three weeks should be added.
Q. Is It Possible To Purchase A Non-U.S. Specification Vehicle?
MBUSA can only process orders for U.S. specification vehicles. Non-U.S. specification vehicles are not available.
Q. Is There A Hotel Charge For A 3rd Person?
Many hotels charge for each additional person, even children. Rates vary by Hotel.
Q. What Can Be Left In Car For Ocean Shipment?
Do not leave any personal effects in the vehicle as neither MBUSA or the shipper hereby disavow any responsibility to in any way protect those items from loss, theft or damage or otherwise be responsible for those items and shall under no circumstance be on notice of the existence of those items or in any way liable for their loss or destruction as a result of the actions or inactions of any person or entity.
Please note: Upon arrival of the car at the Vehicle Preparation Center in the United States, the European Warning Triangle and First Aid Kit will be removed, since these items do not meet U.S. requirements. A U.S. version of the First Aid Kit will be put in the trunk of the car.
Q. What Is Required For Customs Clearance?
U.S. Custom's authorities require a copy of passport or driver's license and Social Security numbers of the individual purchaser and the IRS number if the vehicle is purchased in the name of a company. A street address is necessary (P.O. Box is not acceptable). Without this information the vehicle cannot be customs cleared.
Q. While Traveling In Europe Is An International Drivers License Required?
If you travel to or through Austria you need an International Drivers License. It can be obtained from any AAA location in the U.S. Please contact your local AAA office.
Q. Can the duration of insurance be extended?
Yes. Customers may purchase additional insurance up to twelve (12) months. Extended insurance must be purchased through Mercedes-Benz USA at least two weeks prior to delivery date. Please contact your dealership for rates.
Q. What countries are covered under the insurance?
AXA Insurance covers the vehicle while traveling in Europe. Europe and Turkey (European, as well as Asiatic part).
Q. Can I purchase insurance on my own?
Other insurance companies are not accepted. All vehicles delivered through the European Delivery Program must be covered by AXA Insurance.
Q. Is leasing possible?
It is possible to lease a vehicle through Mercedes-Benz Financial and pick it up at the Delivery Center in Germany. However, the maximum time you can keep a leased vehicle in Europe is one month. It is also possible to participate in the European Delivery Program and lease through a different leasing company.
Q. Can I cancel my order?
You may cancel your order; however, a $200 cancellation fee will apply.
Q. Will I be charged European Road Taxes?
If the European Road Insurance/Registration exceeds three (3) months, the road tax is applicable. The Road Tax is payable at time of delivery in Germany.
Q. Are toll stickers required?
Toll stickers are required on all vehicles on Austria's major highways,/expressways. They can be purchased at gasoline stations (Germany and Austria) and at the borders as well as Automobile Clubs in Austria. A 10 days sticker is 7.60 euros, two month sticker 72.60 euros. The fine for not having this sticker and/or International Driver's license is 364.00 euros, if stopped by traffic control.
Note: These prices are in effect at time of publication and are subject to change.
Toll stickers are required on all vehicles on Switzerland's major highways/expressways. They can be purchased at gasoline stations (Germany and Switzerland) and at the borders, cost is 40.00 SFR. If stopped by traffic patrol, drivers will be assessed a fine up to 200 SFR for not having this sticker.
Note: These prices are in effect at time of publication and are subject to change.
Q. Will I have to pay German Value Added Tax (VAT)?
The automobile must be exported from the European Union within (6) months after date of registration to avoid the German Value Added Tax (presently at 19% of vehicle price).
