Economy Shopping boom in Chile: how much do Argentines save by buying tires from across the border? - Infobae

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Shopping boom in Chile: how much do Argentines save by buying tires from across the border? - Infobae​

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Boom de compras en Chile: cuánto se ahorran los argentinos al comprar neumáticos del otro lado de la frontera

Ante los altos precios en el mercado local, muchos argentinos cruzan la Cordillera de los Andes para comprar neumáticos en Chile. Las diferencias de precios llegan a superar el 200 por ciento en casos puntuales

www.infobae.com

September 18, 2024


Faced with high prices on the local market, many Argentines cross the Andes to buy tires in Chile. Price differences can exceed 200 percent in some cases.



Chile has become one of the preferred destinations for those looking to save on tire purchases (Maximiliano Luna)


In recent years, Argentines have sought various ways to cope with the rising cost of living. Among the expenses that have become more difficult to meet is vehicle maintenance, and in particular, tire replacement , the price of which in the local market has skyrocketed. This phenomenon has led many drivers to look for alternatives outside the country, and Chile has become one of the preferred destinations for those looking to save on tire purchases.


Although Uruguay initially appeared to be an interesting option, with significantly lower prices, the trans-Andean country has gained ground thanks to a combination of factors that include a more favorable exchange rate, a lower tax burden and a range of products at prices that, in some cases, are less than half those in Argentina .


In this context, Argentines living near the Andes Mountains have begun to take advantage of trips to Chile not only to change their car tires, but also to make other purchases, such as technology or clothing, and enjoy a weekend of tourism and gastronomy at a lower cost. However, the main attraction remains the possibility of saving significant sums on the purchase of tires, something that can mean a significant relief for the pocketbook .

The price difference between Argentina and Chile​

The price difference between the two countries is truly striking. To better understand it, we conducted a brief survey of online stores on both sides of the border, taking some of the most sought-after models from the main tire brands , such as Bridgestone , Michelin , Goodyear and Pirelli . The comparison, made in dollars, allows us to clearly see how much you can save when crossing the border.


The savings are not insignificant, and in some cases can represent more than 50% of the cost compared to local prices. Below is a detailed list of the prices of some tire models in both countries, along with the savings calculation for an Argentine who decides to make the purchase in Chile .


As in 2017, the attraction of prices abroad due to the appreciation of the peso is important

Tire price comparison in Argentina and Chile​

1. Bridgestone 185/60 R15 Turanza ER300

• Price in Chile : USD 82.93
• Price in Argentina : USD 155.91
• Price difference : USD 72.94 (47% less in Chile)
• Savings for a set of 4 tires : USD 291.76

2. Michelin Primacy 4 255/45 R18 99Y

• Price in Chile : USD 264 (USD 1,056 for four units)
• Price in Argentina : USD 462 (USD 1,848 for four units)
• Total savings for a set of 4 tires : USD 792

3. Michelin 255/40 R20 101Y Pilot Super Sport

• Price in Chile : USD 380.99 (USD 1,523.95 for four units)
• Price in Argentina : USD 745 (USD 2,980 for four units)
• Total savings for a set of 4 tires : USD 1,456.05

4. Goodyear 185/65 R15 Eagle Touring 88H SL

• Price in Chile : USD 88.13 (USD 352.48 for four units)
• Price in Argentina : USD 405.62 (USD 1,622.48 for four units)
• Total savings for a set of 4 tires : USD 1,270

5. Goodyear 185/55 R16 Eagle Sport 2 83V SL

• Price in Chile : USD 113 (USD 452 for four units)
• Price in Argentina : USD 208 (USD 832 for four units)
• Total savings for a set of 4 tires : USD 380

6. Pirelli 195/60 R15 89H Cinturato

• Price in Chile : USD 123 (USD 492 for four units)
• Price in Argentina : USD 178 (USD 721 for four units)
• Total savings for a set of 4 tires : USD 229

7. Pirelli 245/70 R17 110T Tub S-AT Plus

• Price in Chile : USD 257 (USD 1,028 for four units)
• Price in Argentina : USD 357 (USD 1,428 for four units)
• Total savings for a set of 4 tires : USD 400

Since the cost of tires in Argentina can be up to double the price of those in Chile , many consumers consider the trip worthwhile, even after adding the additional costs of transportation and lodging. The price difference is so great that, although the trip involves an investment, at the end of the day, the savings on the purchase of tires can be considerable .

In addition, some travel agencies have begun to offer specific “ shopping tours ” that facilitate the transfer of Argentines interested in making these purchases across the border. This not only reduces the cost of the trip, but also simplifies it, since transfers and assistance with the necessary procedures are included.

For those living in provinces close to the Andes Mountains , such as Mendoza or San Juan , logistics are even simpler, as border crossing is relatively quick and distances are short. However, even for those residing in more remote areas, the savings can justify the effort of traveling .