For older vehicles or those used in high temperature and humidity areas, we will focus on opening the hood to check if the insulation of the wiring harness in the high-temperature area of the engine compartment is cracked or brittle, to identify potential short circuit risks that could lead to spontaneous combustion.

China has centralized vehicle records you can check remotely before paying anything. Ask the exporter for the 17-digit VIN, then request two reports. First, the maintenance history: third-party platforms pull 4S dealership records showing service dates, mileage and repair items. A mileage line that goes down over time is a red flag for odometer tampering. Second, the insurance claim history: it lists accident dates, claim amounts and repaired parts. Heavy claims involving frame rails or airbags should end the deal. Practical tips: run the reports yourself instead of accepting screenshots from the seller, make sure the report date is close to the delivery date, and cross-check with physical wear such as the steering wheel, pedals and seat bolsters, which cannot lie about high mileage. Keep in mind that small private repairs never enter these databases, so combine history checks with a physical inspection before shipping.

Demurrage is a penalty charged by the port or shipping company for not clearing and picking up goods on time after they arrive. To avoid it: send customs documents in advance and ensure the recipient is prepared with duties and import qualifications.