Verify if the vehicle model is within the manufacturer's EU certification scope. If not, contact the certification company for single model certification; otherwise, it cannot be registered in Europe.
A typical transaction has six steps. 1. Selection: you confirm the vehicle through photos, a video walkaround, an inspection report and the VIN. 2. Deposit: most exporters ask 20%-30% to reserve the car. Pay by bank transfer to the company's corporate account, never a personal one. 3. Inspection: an independent pre-shipment inspection verifies the condition; you receive the report before paying the balance. 4. Balance payment: usually due before loading. Request the booking confirmation and container number. 5. Shipping: the exporter sends you the draft bill of lading for checking, then the original documents by courier. 6. Arrival: you clear customs with the invoice, C/O, B/L and inspection certificate, then register the vehicle. Total timeline is usually 2-6 weeks. Use payment methods with recourse (T/T or escrow) and keep every contract and receipt.
Two main shipping methods are used for used cars from China: 1) Container shipping: the car is loaded into a 20ft or 40ft container. Safer, protects from weather and damage, and allows personal items inside the car. Slightly more expensive. 2) RoRo (roll-on/roll-off): the car is driven onto the ship. Cheaper for single units, but no protection and no personal belongings allowed. Typical transit times from major Chinese ports (Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Qingdao): - Middle East: 12-20 days - Europe: 25-40 days - East/West Africa: 30-45 days - South America: 35-50 days - Southeast Asia: 5-12 days Add 5-10 days on each side for port handling, customs, and inland delivery. Peak season (before Chinese New Year and summer) can add delays, so book space 2-3 weeks ahead.
