Ask the exporter for a copy of the vehicle registration certificate (机动车登记证书). It lists every owner change and any mortgage registration. If the car was financed, there will be a lien entry; make sure a release entry follows it. You can also verify the VIN against public records through the traffic management platform (12123) — a legitimate exporter can generate a status report on the spot. Check that the seller's company name on the invoice matches the registered owner. For extra safety, require a written statement that the vehicle is free of liens, loans, court seizures, and lease agreements, and wire payment only to the company's corporate account after ownership is transferred to the export entity. That sequence — transfer first, payment second — is your strongest protection.

Yes. Due to the significant difficulty in extinguishing lithium battery fires, insurance companies typically charge 20%-40% higher rates for comprehensive coverage on used EVs compared to ICE vehicles. Additionally, the absolute deductible for minor scratches on the body will also be increased accordingly.

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.