The standard set is: 1. Commercial invoice and sales contract - issued by the exporter; the basis for customs valuation. 2. Packing list - exporter; details the vehicle and any spare parts shipped with it. 3. Bill of lading - issued by the shipping line; your proof of ownership of the cargo. Never pay the full balance before receiving at least a copy of it. 4. Certificate of origin - issued by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT); some countries require it for preferential duty rates. 5. Export customs declaration - Chinese customs; confirms the car was legally exported. 6. Pre-shipment inspection report - issued by companies like Intertek, SGS or the EAA scheme, if your country mandates it. Ask the exporter for scanned copies of all documents before shipping so you or your broker can verify completeness.

The standard process looks like this: 1. Selection: pick the car, request the VIN, registration certificate, and recent photos/videos. For higher-value cars, order an independent third-party inspection. 2. Negotiation and contract: agree on price and terms. Sign a written contract stating the car's condition, price, payment schedule, and delivery terms (FOB or CIF). 3. Deposit: typically 20-30% to reserve the car. Pay to the company's corporate account, never a personal one. 4. Verification: your agent or inspector confirms the car matches the contract before the balance is due. 5. Balance and export: pay the remaining amount; the seller arranges inland transport, export customs clearance, and port loading. 6. Shipping documents: you receive the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading - usually by courier or email. 7. Arrival: your customs broker clears the car, you pay duties and taxes, then register it locally. Total timeline is usually 4-8 weeks depending on the shipping route.

Start with the owner's manual for your exact model and year—it lists the official service intervals and the required fluid specifications. If the manual is only in Chinese, ask the exporter for the English version, or check the manufacturer's website and owner community forums for your region. After the car arrives, do a baseline service even if the seller says it was just serviced: engine oil and filter, air filter, cabin filter, brake fluid check, coolant, and a 12V battery test. From then on, follow the "severe" or "extreme conditions" schedule rather than the normal one—dusty roads, short trips, and hot or very cold climates all count as severe duty, and intervals are usually shorter. Keep every invoice and record. A documented maintenance history makes warranty claims easier and protects resale value.