Both are common, and the right choice depends on budget and destination: 1. Container shipping (20ft/40ft): The car is sealed inside a container, offering better protection and allowing you to load spare parts inside the car. Typical cost from Shanghai to major world ports: $1,500-$3,000 per car. Best for long distances and high-value vehicles. 2. RoRo (roll-on/roll-off): The car is driven onto the ship and secured on deck. Cheaper ($800-$1,800 to most ports) and faster to load, but exposed to weather and port handling. Not all routes offer RoRo service. Transit time examples: to the Gulf 15-25 days, to West Africa 30-45 days, to Latin America 25-40 days, to Europe 20-35 days. Ask your exporter which option serves your destination port, and always insure the shipment for full value.

China does not have a single public accident database like CARFAX, but you can still verify history from several sources. First, ask the exporter for the insurance claim records (出险记录). Major repairs go through insurance, and the claim history shows the date, amount, and damaged parts. A car with large claim amounts (over half its value) is effectively a total loss rebuild. Second, check the vehicle's registration certificate (机动车登记证书) for transfer history — multiple transfers in a short period often follow an accident. Third, run a VIN check through commercial platforms (paid, around 20-50 RMB) which aggregate insurance, maintenance, and auction data. Cross-check everything against a physical inspection: paint thickness readings on structural points, weld quality under the seals, and underbody photos. If the records and the physical condition do not match, walk away or demand a large discount.

Unauthorized personnel are prohibited from entering and taking photos inside the roll-on/roll-off ship, but we will provide photos of the vehicles parked in the loading area with the ship in the background. The bill of lading marked "Shipped on board" with the date is the most essential legal proof of loading.