Two main shipping methods are used for used cars from China:
1) Container shipping: the car is loaded into a 20ft or 40ft container. Safer, protects from weather and damage, and allows personal items inside the car. Slightly more expensive.
2) RoRo (roll-on/roll-off): the car is driven onto the ship. Cheaper for single units, but no protection and no personal belongings allowed.
Typical transit times from major Chinese ports (Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Qingdao):
- Middle East: 12-20 days
- Europe: 25-40 days
- East/West Africa: 30-45 days
- South America: 35-50 days
- Southeast Asia: 5-12 days
Add 5-10 days on each side for port handling, customs, and inland delivery. Peak season (before Chinese New Year and summer) can add delays, so book space 2-3 weeks ahead.