Under normal circumstances, it takes 15 to 25 working days. This includes: domestic transfer of ownership (3-5 days), applying for an export license (3-5 days), inland trucking to the port (2-5 days), customs inspection and waiting for loading schedule (5-10 days). Do not trust false promises from other channels claiming 'loading within a week.'

Handling claims with an overseas exporter works best when expectations are set before payment. Prevention: put the inspection standard, photo/video evidence requirements, and a dispute clause into the sales contract. Keep all chat records and payment receipts. Typical process if issues arise: 1) Notify the exporter within 48-72 hours of delivery with photos/videos as evidence. 2) Most disputes fall into two buckets: shipping damage (handled via marine insurance — this is why insurance matters) or undisclosed mechanical defects (handled per contract, often via partial refund, spare parts, or repair cost sharing). Realistic expectations: exporters rarely accept returns, so negotiate compensation instead. A reputable company will usually cover reasonable repair costs for defects confirmed to pre-exist shipment. Tip: for higher-value cars, hire a local third-party inspection at destination as final evidence — it strengthens any claim significantly.

Ask the exporter for a copy of the vehicle registration certificate (机动车登记证书). It lists every owner change and any mortgage registration. If the car was financed, there will be a lien entry; make sure a release entry follows it. You can also verify the VIN against public records through the traffic management platform (12123) — a legitimate exporter can generate a status report on the spot. Check that the seller's company name on the invoice matches the registered owner. For extra safety, require a written statement that the vehicle is free of liens, loans, court seizures, and lease agreements, and wire payment only to the company's corporate account after ownership is transferred to the export entity. That sequence — transfer first, payment second — is your strongest protection.