Used cars are classified under HS heading 8703 (motor vehicles for transport of persons), with the last four digits determined by engine type and size. Gasoline cars usually fall in 8703.21–8703.80 depending on displacement; pure EVs fall under 8703.80; hybrids have their own subheadings. The duty amount depends on your country's tariff schedule: 1. Most countries charge duty on the CIF value (car price + freight + insurance), not the FOB price. 2. Many developing markets levy higher duties on used vehicles than new ones, and some add a surcharge based on age — older cars can cost significantly more to clear. 3. After duty, you typically pay VAT/GST on the CIF + duty total, plus port and customs fees. Practical tips: ask your exporter to state the exact HS code on the commercial invoice and confirm it with a local customs broker before shipping. A wrong code can trigger reclassification, penalties, or delays. Also budget for any excise tax tied to engine capacity — in several markets a 2.5L car clears far cheaper than a 3.5L one.

A Chinese history report (查博士, 精真估, or 4S-shop records) usually contains several sections. Here's how to read them. Accident records: entries tagged 重大事故 (major accident) or listings at an insurance payout above 30% of the car's value are serious red flags. Airbag deployment is a deal-breaker for most buyers. Mileage timeline: check that mileage increases logically between service visits. A sudden drop between two dates means odometer tampering—walk away. Ownership count: more than 3 owners in 5 years suggests a problem car. Also check the 使用性质 field: a car registered as 营运 (commercial/taxi use) has a much shorter legal lifespan. Maintenance entries: consistent 4S dealership records are a good sign; long gaps aren't necessarily fatal if the owner used independent shops, but ask for receipts. Cross-check the report against the VIN plate, registration certificate, and physical inspection. If the report shows no accidents but paint thickness readings say otherwise, trust the metal, not the paper.

The technician will check the production date codes and brand logos in the lower left corner of all the car's glass (including the windshield, four doors, and rear window) to see if they match the vehicle's factory date on the nameplate. If any glass is found to have a date later than the vehicle's production date, it will be recorded as evidence of a "previous damage replacement."