Ask the exporter for a paint thickness gauge report, or request a live video where they measure the car in front of you. What to look for: · Factory paint on most Chinese cars measures 80–120 microns. Readings above 150–200 microns on a panel usually mean repainting; above 300 microns often means body filler (putty) underneath. · Inconsistent readings between panels (e.g., left door 95µm, right door 180µm) suggest the right side was repaired. · Check gaps between panels (doors, hood, trunk). Uneven gaps or misaligned headlights/bumper clips point to past collision repairs. · Look for overspray on rubber seals, plastic trim, or inside door jambs — a clear sign of repainting. · Check bolt heads on fenders, doors, and hood. Wrench marks or fresh paint over bolts mean the panel was removed. Combine these checks with an OBD scan for airbag or crash-related fault codes. Any repainting should be declared by the seller; if discovered undeclared, you have grounds to renegotiate or reject the car.

A typical transaction has six steps. 1. Selection: you confirm the vehicle through photos, a video walkaround, an inspection report and the VIN. 2. Deposit: most exporters ask 20%-30% to reserve the car. Pay by bank transfer to the company's corporate account, never a personal one. 3. Inspection: an independent pre-shipment inspection verifies the condition; you receive the report before paying the balance. 4. Balance payment: usually due before loading. Request the booking confirmation and container number. 5. Shipping: the exporter sends you the draft bill of lading for checking, then the original documents by courier. 6. Arrival: you clear customs with the invoice, C/O, B/L and inspection certificate, then register the vehicle. Total timeline is usually 2-6 weeks. Use payment methods with recourse (T/T or escrow) and keep every contract and receipt.

Handling claims with an overseas exporter works best when expectations are set before payment. Prevention: put the inspection standard, photo/video evidence requirements, and a dispute clause into the sales contract. Keep all chat records and payment receipts. Typical process if issues arise: 1) Notify the exporter within 48-72 hours of delivery with photos/videos as evidence. 2) Most disputes fall into two buckets: shipping damage (handled via marine insurance — this is why insurance matters) or undisclosed mechanical defects (handled per contract, often via partial refund, spare parts, or repair cost sharing). Realistic expectations: exporters rarely accept returns, so negotiate compensation instead. A reputable company will usually cover reasonable repair costs for defects confirmed to pre-exist shipment. Tip: for higher-value cars, hire a local third-party inspection at destination as final evidence — it strengthens any claim significantly.