A proper pre-shipment inspection is more than photos — it is a documented technical examination covering four areas. 1. Structure: paint thickness readings across the body, weld inspection of pillars and chassis rails, rust assessment underneath. 2. Mechanical: engine compression or at least a cold-start video, transmission shifts through all gears, suspension noise test on uneven roads, brake pad and disc thickness measurements. 3. Electronics: full OBD diagnostic scan with printed fault codes, all lights, windows, AC, infotainment, and driver-assistance functions tested. 4. Documentation: VIN and engine number physically matched to the registration certificate, photos of the certificate itself. Insist on a written report with photos, measured values, and a clear pass/fail conclusion per section. Make final payment conditional on this report, not on the seller's word or showroom-condition photos.

SOH (State of Health) measures the battery's remaining capacity as a percentage of its original capacity. Two EVs with the same mileage can have very different SOH depending on charging habits and climate exposure, and since the battery represents 30-50% of a used EV's value, the SOH number is effectively the real price tag. A proper certificate includes current SOH percentage, cell voltage balance, charge cycle counts, battery management system fault codes, and often a projected range estimate. In hot-climate markets like the Gulf, a degraded battery degrades even faster, so a documented SOH above 85-90% is strongly recommended. Exporters who provide verified SOH certificates close deals faster and command better prices, so treat the certificate as a core purchase document, not an extra.

The nameplate date is the absolute time when the vehicle leaves the factory; the registration date is when the vehicle is registered with the traffic management department after sale. The difference represents the time the vehicle spent in the dealer's warehouse or logistics. If the time difference exceeds 6-8 months, the vehicle is considered a "stock vehicle," and we pay special attention to the natural aging of its rubber components.