Odometer rollback happens everywhere, so never trust the dashboard number alone. Cross-check at least three sources: 1. Maintenance records: Chinese 4S dealerships keep service logs tied to the VIN. Ask the exporter for screenshots showing recorded mileage at each visit — the numbers should rise consistently. 2. Inspection reports: China requires periodic emissions/safety inspections, and the mileage is logged at each one. The exporter can pull the car's inspection history. 3. Tire and wear clues: Compare the claimed mileage with brake pedal rubber, steering wheel shine, seat bolster wear, and the tire production dates. A car showing 30,000 km with a polished steering wheel and second set of tires is suspicious. Also check the dashboard for uneven digits or scratches around the odometer area in photos. If maintenance and inspection records roughly agree, the reading is usually trustworthy; if the seller refuses to share records, treat the mileage as unknown and negotiate accordingly.

Start with the business license: every legitimate Chinese company has a Unified Social Credit Code. Ask for a copy and verify it on the National Enterprise Credit Information system or via your freight forwarder. Check that the business scope includes 'used car export'—this requires specific qualifications. Next, look for proof of substance: a real office or yard (verify via live video call, not pre-recorded), staff answering on Chinese business platforms like WeChat with consistent branding, and a corporate bank account in the company's name—never pay a personal account. Cross-check trade history: ask for recent shipping documents (blurred bills of lading with customer info hidden), references from buyers in your region, and whether they hold export licenses issued by Chinese commerce authorities. Red flags: prices far below market, pressure to pay quickly, refusal of video calls, or bank accounts in third countries 'for convenience'. Take your time—real exporters pass these checks easily.

Once the car is loaded, the exporter (or freight forwarder) should send you a booking confirmation and, after departure, the Bill of Lading (B/L). The B/L is the key document: it shows the shipper, consignee, vessel, ports, and usually the VIN and container number. You can track the vessel on the shipping line's website using the B/L number or container number, or through third-party trackers like MarineTraffic. As the shipment approaches, the agent at destination issues an Arrival Notice. To collect the car you will typically need the original B/L (or a telex release/e-release), the arrival notice, your ID, and customs clearance paperwork. Check the B/L carefully as soon as you receive it—VIN, container number, and your name must be exactly right, because correcting a B/L mid-voyage is slow and expensive.