Our delivery standard is 'As-Is'. If the original owner only hands over one key at the time of collection, the report will clearly state 'Keys: 1'. Do not assume that all used cars come with two keys, as the cost of reprogramming smart keys overseas is very high.
The industry-standard structure protects both sides. Pay 20-30% deposit after signing the contract and verifying the exporter's license—never more. The balance is paid only after your independent inspection report confirms the car matches the contract, ideally against a copy of the bill of lading so the exporter can't ship a different vehicle. For extra protection, tie payments to milestones: deposit on contract, second tranche after inspection passes, final payment when shipping documents are released. Some buyers use escrow services or trade assurance platforms for the first transaction with a new supplier; fees run 1-3% but are worth it for large amounts. Always pay to a corporate bank account matching the exporter's registered name. Keep every agreement in the written contract—verbal promises like 'we'll fix that before shipping' are unenforceable. If an exporter demands 50%+ upfront or full payment before inspection, walk away; that structure leaves you with no leverage.
Our foreign versions of the report standardize terminology and include illustrations. For example, instead of just writing "control arm failure," we specify "Lower Control Arm Bushing Torn" to help your local technicians identify the issue directly.
