A typical safe flow looks like this:
1. Sourcing: you pick a car from listings; the exporter confirms availability, sends photos, video and a condition report.
2. Contract: a written sales contract stating VIN, price, included costs, inspection standards and delivery terms (FOB or CIF).
3. Deposit: usually 10–30% after you or a third party verify the car. Pay to a company account, never personal.
4. Inspection: independent pre-shipment inspection; you approve the report before shipping.
5. Balance payment: due before shipment, against copy of the bill of lading.
6. Shipping and documents: exporter sends original documents by courier; you track the vessel.
7. Arrival: your customs agent clears the car, you pay duties and collect it.
Timeline: typically 3–8 weeks from deposit to arrival, depending on route. Any exporter pushing for 100% upfront payment should be treated as a red flag.