A clean title check has three layers. First, run the VIN through maintenance records: dealers in China log service visits with mileage, and gaps or mileage rollbacks are red flags. Second, pull insurance claim history — major accidents, fire and flood damage usually leave claim records even if the car was repaired well. Third, verify registration status: confirm the car is not under finance, court seizure, or theft report. From overseas, you can engage a local inspection agency or law firm to retrieve these records and issue a written report. Cross-check the VIN and engine number on the report against the registration certificate; any mismatch means walk away.

Before shipping you should hold: the sales contract and commercial invoice, the export declaration (customs form showing the VIN), the vehicle registration certificate, and the bill of lading or rail waybill once cargo is loaded. Verify them like this. The VIN on the invoice, the export declaration, and the waybill must be identical, character for character. The registration certificate should show a clear ownership chain with the seller as the current owner; ask for a scan before payment. The export declaration proves the car legally left China and is essential for customs clearance at destination. If the exporter cannot provide the registration certificate or hesitates on the VIN check, pause the deal. Also confirm who handles the document courier: originals should arrive before or with the vessel, because many ports will not release a car without original bills of lading.

Vehicles sold domestically in China only have the "Environmental Information List" and the "Vehicle Qualification Certificate," which are not the COC of the European system. We will provide a notarized English translation of the Chinese qualification certificate. If local customs strictly require the original European COC, the vehicle will not be able to clear customs.