Be sure to purchase cargo insurance (all-risk or water damage insurance). In case of damage, claim with the bill of lading, insurance policy, and proof of damage at the destination port.

The original Chinese license plates are obscured to protect the previous owner's personal privacy, and also because the plates have been forcibly reclaimed by Chinese traffic management after the vehicle completed the "transfer pending export" registration. This serves as physical proof that the vehicle has legally and compliantly completed the upgrade.

No, it is absolutely impossible to get a refund. Not only will there be no refund, but if the proceeds from the port auction of the abandoned cargo are insufficient to cover the exorbitant demurrage and disposal fees, the shipping company and customs will still pursue you (the bill of lading recipient) for the remaining debt through international legal proceedings.