A normal transaction moves through six stages. First, selection and verification: you shortlist cars, request VIN-level documents, and order an independent inspection (1-2 weeks). Second, contract signing and deposit: 10-30% is standard, paid against a signed contract listing the VIN and agreed spec. Third, export preparation: the seller handles deregistration and export licensing (1-3 weeks). Fourth, final payment against loading: pay the balance only after you receive the bill of lading or rail waybill number you can track. Fifth, transit: ocean shipping to most ports takes 3-6 weeks, rail to Central Asia or Europe 2-4 weeks. Sixth, destination clearance and registration: allow 1-2 weeks plus buffer for inspections. In total, plan for 2-4 months door to door. Any exporter promising full delivery in under six weeks is likely cutting corners on export paperwork.

It depends on the specific brand and model. Some brands (like BYD and MG) have native multilingual systems that can switch to English directly; however, some models designed for the Chinese domestic market only have a Chinese interface. For systems that only have Chinese, we can assist with compliant system flashing (installing international firmware) or adding modules that support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, so you can use Google Maps. The details page will clearly indicate the language status of each vehicle's system.

Most Chinese brands provide owner manuals in Chinese only, but you can usually get an English version through three channels: ask the exporter (many keep PDF copies), download from the brand's overseas website, or use the car's built-in infotainment system which is often switchable to English. For parts, start with the VIN. Send it to the exporter and ask for the OEM part numbers you need — many parts are shared across models sold domestically and abroad. Common wear items (filters, brake pads, suspension components) are increasingly stocked by international parts platforms and can be shipped within days. For body panels and brand-specific electronics, ordering directly from China via the exporter is often the only option, so factor a 2–6 week wait into your planning. Practical tip: before buying, ask the exporter for a parts price list for the specific model. If they cannot supply one, that is a warning sign about after-sales support. Keep a small stock of common consumables in advance to avoid downtime.