A professional pre-purchase inspection in China normally covers five parts: exterior and interior condition, a lift inspection of the chassis and frame, engine bay checks, a road test, and OBD diagnostics. Prioritize the chassis rails and A/B/C pillars for cut-and-weld repairs, engine oil leaks and timing noises, transmission shift quality, and OBD fault codes — cleared codes leave telltale history data. For EVs, add battery pack casing, insulation values, and battery state of health (SOH). Insist on original timestamped photos with the VIN visible and a written conclusion such as 'fit for export' or 'major defects found.' A report that only says 'good condition' is not worth paying for.

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.

It is extremely dangerous and usually not allowed. This can easily trigger the anti-money laundering (AML) controls of China's foreign exchange administration. The remittance account title must closely match the contract buyer and the bill of lading consignee. If payment on behalf is necessary, a legally binding "Tripartite Payment Agreement" must be provided in advance and undergo compliance review by our finance department.