Heavy-use vehicles often look clean in photos but show specific wear patterns. Here's what to check: 1. Rear sag and suspension: ask for a side-profile photo of the car on level ground. If the rear sits noticeably lower than the front, the rear springs or shocks may be worn from constant heavy loads. Compare with factory ride height specs. 2. Pedal and seat wear: accelerator and brake pedals with polished metal patches, and a driver's seat bolster that is flattened or cracked, indicate high mileage or intensive commercial use — even if the odometer says otherwise. 3. Hitch and tow bar marks: check the rear bumper area in close-up photos for scratches, bolt holes, or a removed tow bar mount. Ask the seller directly whether the car ever towed. 4. Underbody and frame: request underbody photos. Look for bent or scraped crossmembers, fresh undercoating hiding damage, or uneven tire wear across the rear axle. 5. Data check: many ride-hailing cars in China have records in maintenance databases — a professional inspection agency can flag cars with commercial fleet history. If the seller refuses underbody or close-up photos, treat it as a warning sign and consider another vehicle.

From the Chinese seller, expect these documents: 1. Vehicle registration certificate (the green book) 2. Driving license/registration card for the vehicle 3. Commercial invoice and sales contract 4. Export declaration documents (packing list, declaration forms handled by their forwarder) 5. Bill of lading, issued once the car is on the vessel You prepare on your side: 1. Import permit or approval, if your country requires one 2. Proof of compliance - emissions, safety, or type-approval certificates your customs authority asks for 3. Bill of lading release documents (original B/L or telex release) 4. Customs declaration through your broker, with your tax ID 5. Payment records - keep the bank transfer receipt, as some customs offices verify the declared value Practical tips: insist the seller removes any lien from the green book before export; verify the VIN on all documents matches the physical car; and confirm your country's age/emissions limits before paying a deposit, not after.

Based on practical risk assessment, we strongly recommend setting aside 3% to 5% of the car price as a buffer fund for even the highest-rated used cars, to cover oil changes, new tires, minor shipping scratches, and local inspection labor costs.