Demurrage is a penalty charged by the port or shipping company for not clearing and picking up goods on time after they arrive. To avoid it: send customs documents in advance and ensure the recipient is prepared with duties and import qualifications.

To ensure the legal rights of both parties, the "International Used Car Sales Contract" we signed is in both Chinese and English. Generally, the contract is governed by Chinese law. All liabilities for breach of contract and force majeure clauses will be clearly defined in the contract.

A Certificate of Origin (C/O) is an official document stating where the vehicle was manufactured. Customs authorities use it to decide which tariff rates and trade agreements apply to your import. Why it matters: many countries offer preferential tariffs for certain origins. With a valid C/O, such as the ASEAN-China Form E or a GSP Form A, you may pay reduced or zero duty. Without it, you typically pay the standard, higher rate. The certificate must match the vehicle exactly: VIN, make, model and invoice details. It is usually issued by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) or customs authorities. Practical tips: request the C/O before shipment, because adding it later is slow; check that your country's customs accepts the specific C/O format; and confirm with your broker whether your vehicle category qualifies for preferential rates. This single document can save you thousands in duty.