For car enthusiasts who also love to travel, a European Delivery program is one of the most exciting and unique ways to combine these two passions. Imagine purchasing your dream car and then traveling to Europe to pick it up right from the factory. You'll feel the surge of excitement as you tour the birthplace of your vehicle, slide behind the wheel for the first time, and set off on winding European roads with the scent of new leather surrounding you. After exploring iconic landscapes and historic cities at your own pace, you'll have your brand-new car shipped home. This creates memories that will last as long as your vehicle.
Custom European license plates from the country where your car originated can be a fantastic way to commemorate your European Delivery adventure. These plates make for conversation-starting garage decorations, instantly transporting you back to those magical days of driving through Alpine passes or along coastal Mediterranean roads. While they're legal to display on your car in many U.S. states that don't require a front license plate, always check your local regulations first. It's the perfect keepsake for your home or garage even if you can't use it on your car.
Volvo Overseas Delivery Program
Currently, one of the best-known and most comprehensive European Delivery programs available is from Volvo. Imagine being greeted at the Gothenburg airport by your own Volvo representative before being whisked away to your hotel. The next day, you'll experience the thrill of a VIP delivery at the stunning World of Volvo, where your new car awaits under perfect lighting, looking even more beautiful than in the showroom.
The Volvo Overseas Delivery Program provides remarkable perks, including complimentary roundtrip airfare for two to Sweden, hotel accommodations, a VIP delivery experience, and an illuminating factory tour where you'll see the meticulous assembly of vehicles just like yours. You'll also receive complimentary European insurance for two weeks — plenty of time to feel the responsive handling of your new Volvo as you navigate through the picturesque Swedish countryside, historic European cities, or the breathtaking Norwegian fjords with their dramatic cliffs and serene waters.
What makes Volvo's program truly special is the personalized attention and the freedom to explore Europe at your own pace, with the perfect vehicle for your journey. Whether you're cruising down the German Autobahn or navigating charming village streets, you'll create stories worth telling for years to come.
Porsche European Delivery Program
Porsche's European Delivery program continues to attract sports car enthusiasts eager to experience their iconic vehicles on Germany's legendary Autobahn, where stretches without speed limits let you safely explore your car's capabilities. While Porsche doesn't typically offer a discount on MSRP for European Delivery, their program provides extensive travel assistance for a fee of $2,500 (as of 2025), including hotel stays, meals on delivery day, and a memorable factory tour at either their Stuttgart facility or Leipzig Experience Center.
The program creates unforgettable moments — like the first time you press the accelerator on a 911 as you merge onto the Autobahn, feeling the immediate response and precision engineering that defines the brand. You'll enjoy 16 days of complimentary insurance coverage as you savor your new Porsche on European roads, perhaps tackling the hairpin turns of Italy's Stelvio Pass or gliding through Germany's romantic countryside with the sun setting in your rearview mirror.
Discontinued European Delivery Programs
Over the past few years, several beloved European Delivery programs have unfortunately discontinued their offerings for U.S. customers. BMW ended their program in 2020, citing "customer preferences towards U.S.-built X vehicles and declining interest" in the program. For decades, the BMW program had created loyal enthusiasts who would return to Munich's iconic BMW Welt again and again for that special unveiling experience.
Similarly, Mercedes-Benz discontinued their European Delivery program in November 2020, ending a tradition that had allowed customers to combine luxury car purchases with unforgettable European vacations since the 1960s. Audi also wrapped up their program in 2018, closing another chapter in the history of European Delivery.
While these programs are no longer available, their past popularity speaks volumes about the transformative experiences they provided to thousands of enthusiasts. Those fortunate enough to have participated often describe their journeys as life-changing adventures that deepened their connection with their vehicles and the storied automotive heritage of Europe.
Things You Should Know Before Booking Your European Delivery Trip
Before embarking on your European Delivery adventure, consider these important details to ensure a seamless experience:
Confirm Current Program Availability and Restrictions
Program details can change quickly, and availability may be limited for certain models. For example, Volvo's program recently shifted from 2024 to 2025 models, and not all models are eligible. Before making plans, always check with the manufacturer or dealership about current availability, pricing, and any restrictions.
Understand Insurance and Export Requirements
Each program has different insurance coverage durations and conditions. With Volvo, for instance, vehicles must be exported from the EU within 6 months if dropped off in Sweden, but within just 90 days if dropped off elsewhere in Europe. These details matter — missing deadlines could result in additional taxes or fees.
Plan Your Route and Travel Itinerary
The thrill of the open road is intoxicating, but a bit of planning goes a long way. Research driving regulations in each country you'll visit, seasonal road conditions (Alpine passes can close in winter), and parking availability in major cities. Consider balancing driving days with rest days to fully appreciate both your new vehicle and the destinations you're visiting.
Allow Time for Vehicle Shipping
After your European journey concludes, your car will need 6 to 8 weeks to make its transatlantic journey home. Plan accordingly, especially if you're selling another vehicle or need the new one by a specific date.
Prepare for Cultural Differences
European driving cultures vary significantly. Italians are expressive with horns, Germans are disciplined about lane discipline, and French roundabouts can be adventures in themselves. Embracing these differences adds to the richness of your experience.
Make Your European Delivery Experience Personal!
Consider personalizing your European Delivery experience with special touches:
- Research your vehicle's heritage and visit significant locations in its development
- Plan your route around your favorite types of roads — coastal highways, mountain passes, or scenic countryside
- Schedule your trip during a special event or festival that interests you
- Document your journey with photos at iconic European landmarks with your new car
Your European Delivery adventure fuses the joy of receiving a new vehicle with the thrill of exploration. It immerses you in automotive culture, where engineering excellence meets driving pleasure. The memories you create will enhance your connection with your vehicle for years to come, turning every drive into a reminder of that special European journey where your story together began.
