From the Chinese seller, expect these documents: 1. Vehicle registration certificate (the green book) 2. Driving license/registration card for the vehicle 3. Commercial invoice and sales contract 4. Export declaration documents (packing list, declaration forms handled by their forwarder) 5. Bill of lading, issued once the car is on the vessel You prepare on your side: 1. Import permit or approval, if your country requires one 2. Proof of compliance - emissions, safety, or type-approval certificates your customs authority asks for 3. Bill of lading release documents (original B/L or telex release) 4. Customs declaration through your broker, with your tax ID 5. Payment records - keep the bank transfer receipt, as some customs offices verify the declared value Practical tips: insist the seller removes any lien from the green book before export; verify the VIN on all documents matches the physical car; and confirm your country's age/emissions limits before paying a deposit, not after.

Fake or recycled inspection reports are a real risk. Verify authenticity before wiring the balance payment. First, match the VIN: the report must show the full VIN, and the photos must include close-ups of the VIN plate on the chassis and the windshield tag. Ask for a live video call where the inspector walks to the car, shows the VIN tag, and then pans across the dashboard, odometer, and any defects noted in the report—on the same call. Check metadata: ask for original photos rather than screenshots. Files sent via WeChat often strip EXIF, so request the inspector to email originals or use a cloud link where timestamps and GPS data are visible. Cross-verify details: the odometer reading in the video should match the report exactly, and paint-thickness readings should be reproducible—ask the inspector to re-measure 2-3 spots live. Use a known inspection company rather than one recommended solely by the seller, and pay the inspector directly. An independent inspector has no incentive to hide defects.

Two main shipping methods are used for used cars from China: 1) Container shipping: the car is loaded into a 20ft or 40ft container. Safer, protects from weather and damage, and allows personal items inside the car. Slightly more expensive. 2) RoRo (roll-on/roll-off): the car is driven onto the ship. Cheaper for single units, but no protection and no personal belongings allowed. Typical transit times from major Chinese ports (Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Qingdao): - Middle East: 12-20 days - Europe: 25-40 days - East/West Africa: 30-45 days - South America: 35-50 days - Southeast Asia: 5-12 days Add 5-10 days on each side for port handling, customs, and inland delivery. Peak season (before Chinese New Year and summer) can add delays, so book space 2-3 weeks ahead.