Yes, but this falls under EXW (Ex Works) terms. In this case, the seller's risk transfers at the moment the goods are ready at the warehouse. Any subsequent domestic trucking accidents, customs inspections at the port, or issues with obtaining export licenses will be fully borne by your designated freight forwarder.

A professional pre-shipment inspection typically costs a small fraction of the vehicle price and routinely pays for itself. A thorough inspection covers: paint thickness measurement across 30+ points to map body repairs; structural assessment of pillars, rails and crossmembers for accident damage; engine and transmission operation; a full electronic scan for fault codes; suspension and underbody checks for leaks and rust; and, for EVs, battery SOH and thermal management performance. You receive a written report with photos before the car is loaded — if the car fails, you can stop the shipment or renegotiate. Skipping the inspection to save a small fee is the classic false economy in used car importing: discovering a problem after arrival is far more expensive than preventing it at origin.

Both are common, and the right choice depends on budget and destination: 1. Container shipping (20ft/40ft): The car is sealed inside a container, offering better protection and allowing you to load spare parts inside the car. Typical cost from Shanghai to major world ports: $1,500-$3,000 per car. Best for long distances and high-value vehicles. 2. RoRo (roll-on/roll-off): The car is driven onto the ship and secured on deck. Cheaper ($800-$1,800 to most ports) and faster to load, but exposed to weather and port handling. Not all routes offer RoRo service. Transit time examples: to the Gulf 15-25 days, to West Africa 30-45 days, to Latin America 25-40 days, to Europe 20-35 days. Ask your exporter which option serves your destination port, and always insure the shipment for full value.