If there is a minor leak in the lines due to bumps, it is possible that the cooling may not work upon arrival. This is a normal physical loss. The cost of vacuuming, pressure testing, and recharging refrigerant at a local auto repair shop is low and is the buyer's responsibility.

Before shipping you should hold: the sales contract and commercial invoice, the export declaration (customs form showing the VIN), the vehicle registration certificate, and the bill of lading or rail waybill once cargo is loaded. Verify them like this. The VIN on the invoice, the export declaration, and the waybill must be identical, character for character. The registration certificate should show a clear ownership chain with the seller as the current owner; ask for a scan before payment. The export declaration proves the car legally left China and is essential for customs clearance at destination. If the exporter cannot provide the registration certificate or hesitates on the VIN check, pause the deal. Also confirm who handles the document courier: originals should arrive before or with the vessel, because many ports will not release a car without original bills of lading.

Yes, consolidation is common and can cut freight cost per car significantly, especially for shared purchases or small-volume importers. How it works: 1. A 40ft high-cube container typically fits 2-4 cars depending on size and loading method (standard loading vs. specialized racking that allows 4+ cars). Confirm the loading plan with your forwarder in writing. 2. Cars are secured with wheel chocks, straps, and padded braces. Professional loading with photos before the doors close is essential — request a photo report for insurance purposes. 3. One container means one bill of lading and one customs entry, but each car still needs its own invoice, export documents, and destination customs declaration. Things to watch: - Liability: if one car shifts and damages another in transit, insurance claims get complicated. Take out proper cargo insurance covering both vehicles. - Timing: all cars in the container must be ready at the same port at the same time, or you pay storage fees. - For EVs, check the shipping line's battery and state-of-charge rules — they may limit how many EVs go in one box. For a single car, RoRo or a 20ft container is usually simpler; consolidation mainly pays off from 2+ cars.