Localized body damage or repair marks present. No accident-related damage or repairs to structural or reinforcing components. Vehicle performance (including three-electric system) has degraded or is limited.
Accident inspection: no damage to main structure, reinforcing components, or panels; hinges normal. Engine bay: key mechanical components normal. Exterior: none. Interior: most features normal; airbags, seatbelts, dashboard, instruments, and lighting system normal. Startup check: main components normal. Onboard tools: none.
Because it's not a one-time transaction. Only by ensuring compliance checks, improving after-sales service, and providing parts can a good reputation be established, leading to repeat purchases and long-term cooperation.
It depends on the car's value, type and destination. RORO means the car is driven onto the vessel and secured on deck or in the hull. It is usually cheaper per car and does not involve container packing fees. The downside: the car sits exposed to salt air for weeks, and RORO service is limited to ports with dedicated terminals. Container shipping (one 20ft or 40ft container per 1-2 cars) costs more but gives much better protection. It is strongly recommended for electric vehicles (battery safety regulations), luxury cars, and vehicles going on long voyages or rough sea routes. Practical tips: whichever method you choose, ask for the car to be shipped with a full battery charge disconnected at the terminals, tire pressures adjusted, and a condition report with photos signed at loading. For EVs, confirm the shipping line accepts used electric vehicles and what state-of-charge limits apply.
A solid contract is your main protection in a cross-border deal. It should specify: 1. Vehicle identification: VIN, year, mileage, trim level, and photos of the actual car appended as an annex — not just「a 2021 Toyota」. 2. Condition guarantees: no accident, no flood or fire damage, no structural repairs, supported by a third-party inspection report referenced in the contract. 3. Price and Incoterm: total amount, currency, the named port, and whether freight and insurance are included. 4. Payment schedule: e.g., 20–30% deposit after contract signing, balance against copy of the Bill of Lading. Avoid 100% upfront. Use T/T to the company's corporate bank account only — never a personal account. 5. Timeline: inspection date, estimated loading date, and latest shipment date, with remedies if delayed. 6. Dispute clause: governing law and arbitration (CIETAC or your local chamber) rather than foreign court litigation. Ask for the contract in English (or bilingual) with the supplier's company chop. A company that refuses a written contract or pushes for full prepayment is a red flag.
