A proper inspection covers roughly 200 checkpoints in four areas: 1. Body and paint: panel gaps, paint thickness readings, signs of accident repair. 2. Mechanical: engine health report, transmission behavior, suspension, underbody on a lift, fluid condition. 3. Electronics: full OBD diagnostic scan, airbag history, all lights and comfort features. 4. Documentation: VIN matches everywhere, no lien or seizure record. You can book directly with inspection companies in Guangzhou, Shanghai, or Tianjin (typically USD 100–250) without going through the seller—give them the yard address and car details, and they send a report with photos and video within 1–2 days. Pay the inspection fee yourself so the inspector answers to you, not the exporter.

A Certificate of Origin (C/O) is an official document stating where the vehicle was manufactured. Customs authorities use it to decide which tariff rates and trade agreements apply to your import. Why it matters: many countries offer preferential tariffs for certain origins. With a valid C/O, such as the ASEAN-China Form E or a GSP Form A, you may pay reduced or zero duty. Without it, you typically pay the standard, higher rate. The certificate must match the vehicle exactly: VIN, make, model and invoice details. It is usually issued by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) or customs authorities. Practical tips: request the C/O before shipment, because adding it later is slow; check that your country's customs accepts the specific C/O format; and confirm with your broker whether your vehicle category qualifies for preferential rates. This single document can save you thousands in duty.

Beyond the FOB price, expect: ocean freight (typically $800–2,500 depending on destination), marine insurance (about 0.3–0.5% of the car's value), port handling charges at both ends, customs duty and import tax/VAT in your country, compliance or homologation certification, and inland delivery to your city. Add currency transfer fees and the inspection fee if you hire a third party. Ask the exporter for a landed-cost breakdown and confirm exactly what the quote includes. A cheap FOB price with everything else shifted to you can add 30–50% to the real total. Budget a 15% buffer on top of the estimate, and get fixed quotes for freight and insurance in writing before paying the balance.