Is it Cheaper to Buy a Volvo in Sweden?
Growing up in Sweden, Volvos were as ubiquitous as IKEA furniture. They were the sensible choice for families, with their reputation for safety, reliability, and comfort. But what if you’re an American looking to buy a Volvo? Is it cheaper to buy one in Sweden and ship it over? Let’s investigate.
Volvo’s Swedish Heritage
Volvo was founded in 1927 in Gothenburg, Sweden. The company has a long history of innovation, particularly in safety features. Volvo is credited with inventing the three-point seatbelt, which is now a standard feature in cars worldwide. Today, Volvo is owned by the Chinese automaker Geely, but its headquarters and main production facilities remain in Sweden.
Buying a Volvo in Sweden
The price of a Volvo in Sweden can vary depending on the model, trim level, and options. However, in general, Volvos are cheaper to buy in Sweden than in the United States. For example, the 2023 Volvo XC90 SUV starts at SEK 669,900 (about $63,000) in Sweden, while the same model starts at $56,850 in the United States.
Shipping a Volvo from Sweden
If you decide to buy a Volvo in Sweden and ship it to the United States, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you will need to pay for shipping, which can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000. Second, you will need to pay import duties, which are taxes on goods imported into the United States. The import duty on a Volvo will vary depending on the model and value, but it is typically around 2.5%.
Other Considerations
In addition to the cost of shipping and import duties, there are a few other things to consider when buying a Volvo in Sweden. First, you will need to make sure that the Volvo you buy meets U.S. safety and emissions standards. Second, you will need to find a mechanic who is qualified to service your Volvo.
Tips and Expert Advice
If you’re considering buying a Volvo in Sweden, here are a few tips:
- Do your research. Make sure you understand the costs involved in buying and shipping a Volvo from Sweden.
- Shop around. Compare prices from different Volvo dealers in Sweden to get the best deal.
- Consider buying a used Volvo. Used Volvos can be a great way to save money, especially if you’re willing to buy an older model.
- Get a professional inspection. Before you buy a Volvo in Sweden, get it inspected by a qualified mechanic to make sure it’s in good condition.
- Be prepared for delays. Shipping a Volvo from Sweden can take several weeks or even months, so be prepared for a delay.
FAQs
Q: Is it cheaper to buy a Volvo in Sweden than in the United States?
A: Yes, in general, Volvos are cheaper to buy in Sweden than in the United States.
Q: How much does it cost to ship a Volvo from Sweden to the United States?
A: The cost of shipping a Volvo from Sweden to the United States can vary depending on the model and size of the vehicle, but it typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000.
Q: What are the import duties on a Volvo?
A: The import duty on a Volvo will vary depending on the model and value, but it is typically around 2.5%.
Q: Can I drive a Volvo with a Swedish license plate in the United States?
A: No, you cannot drive a Volvo with a Swedish license plate in the United States. You will need to register the Volvo in the United States and get a U.S. license plate.
Conclusion
Buying a Volvo in Sweden can be a great way to save money, especially if you’re willing to buy a used or older model. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when buying a Volvo in Sweden, such as the cost of shipping and import duties. If you’re considering buying a Volvo in Sweden, be sure to do your research and shop around to get the best deal.
Are you interested in buying a Volvo in Sweden? Let us know in the comments below!
