Ask the exporter for a copy of the vehicle registration certificate (机动车登记证书). It lists every owner change and any mortgage registration. If the car was financed, there will be a lien entry; make sure a release entry follows it. You can also verify the VIN against public records through the traffic management platform (12123) — a legitimate exporter can generate a status report on the spot. Check that the seller's company name on the invoice matches the registered owner. For extra safety, require a written statement that the vehicle is free of liens, loans, court seizures, and lease agreements, and wire payment only to the company's corporate account after ownership is transferred to the export entity. That sequence — transfer first, payment second — is your strongest protection.

Interior assessment is divided into three core areas: the driver's high-frequency contact area (steering wheel, gear shift, edge of the driver's seat), central control button area, and rear seats and ceiling. The natural sheen of leather surfaces (patina) is normal; however, any physical damage (such as leather tearing, fabric burn holes, or plastic breakage) will be classified as "structural interior damage" and clearly marked.

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.