
After completing all the procedures, the car can generally be picked up within a month, but the specific time may also depend on the arrangements of the 4S dealership staff. Pick-up checklist: Inspect the car (do not pay the remaining balance before inspection), pay the remaining balance, issue the invoice and purchase insurance, check all documents, pay taxes and register the license plate. Inspection checklist: Check all vehicle-related documents. When picking up the car, ensure all materials are complete, as missing documents may affect subsequent registration. Inspect the vehicle's exterior. Check for scratches or wear on the paint by parking the car outdoors in good lighting to examine if the paint is even. Verify the production date of the glass. Check the tire wear. Look for obvious signs of wear on the tire surface. New tires usually have intact tread hairs, but manufacturers may have removed them. Also, inspect the undercarriage for scratches to ensure the car wasn’t driven aggressively during transport. Examine the engine compartment for cleanliness and ensure engine oil and other fluids are at proper levels. Test all vehicle functions, such as lights, air conditioning, audio system, etc., to ensure they are working properly.

I recently bought a Mercedes-Benz CLS and it took a full two months to pick up the car. I originally thought I could drive it away immediately, but the dealership didn't have it in stock—it had to be imported from Germany with custom special interior. The salesperson explained that the production cycle takes about six weeks, and shipping and customs clearance took another four weeks. During peak seasons like the end of the year, it might take even longer due to high demand. They recommended booking early, checking inventory, or choosing standard color configurations to avoid peak periods. Waiting was nerve-wracking, but the customization experience was very personalized and worth the wait. If you opt for less popular models with ample stock, it could be done in just a week, saving time and hassle.

From the automotive industry's perspective, the delivery time for the Mercedes-Benz CLS varies significantly. If the vehicle is in stock, it can be picked up the same day; otherwise, importing a car typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. The primary reasons are the production in Germany and the lengthy international logistics processes, such as shipping and customs clearance. Custom options like AMG packages or special colors can extend the wait to over three months. Market factors, such as peak demand or supply chain issues, can further prolong the timeline. I recommend buyers place orders at least six months in advance and contact larger dealerships with ample inventory for faster delivery, avoiding popular configurations that may cause delays.

After buying the CLS, I learned my lesson and now prepare in advance for car delivery. Waiting 6 to 8 weeks is normal for imported vehicles without stock, and custom orders take even longer; for in-stock vehicles, you can usually take delivery within 1-2 weeks. The strategy is simple: order early to avoid peak seasons, choose standard models for faster delivery, and check local 4S store inventory. Delays may occur due to customs clearance or material shortages, so confirm the status to avoid unnecessary anxiety.


