How to Export
Frequently Asked Questions – A Complete Guide to Exporting Used Cars from China
How to determine the method of purchasing a used car? Common trade terms include EXW, FOB, CIF, etc., and the specific method needs to be confirmed with the overseas buyer. Generally, the overseas buyer first contacts a company with the qualifications for used car exports and the ability to receive foreign currency, pays a deposit or the full amount, and then the company handles the subsequent procurement, export, and other procedures.
The purchased used car must be transferred to the name of the used car trading company to complete the transfer procedures for export. After that, an export license should be applied for, and customs clearance and exit can be carried out based on the license.
Different countries have varying requirements for used cars. For example, some Southeast Asian countries require used cars to meet the China V emission standard, while certain regions in the Middle East impose stricter restrictions on diesel vehicle emissions, demanding compliance with the Euro 4 standard.
Yes, some countries impose age restrictions on used cars. For example, Gabon stipulates that the age of vehicles must not exceed 10 years from the date of manufacture to the time of import application, Nigeria requires used cars to be no older than 15 years, and Kenya mandates that used cars be within 8 years of age.
Some countries have specific requirements for used cars. For instance, Nigeria only accepts left-hand drive vehicles, while Kenya mandates right-hand drive vehicles.
The costs include domestic expenses, international shipping fees, and overseas expenses. Domestic expenses range from approximately 3,000 to 8,000 RMB per vehicle, covering transfer fees, export license application fees, vehicle inspection fees, etc. Shipping to Southeast Asia costs around 2,000 to 3,000 RMB per vehicle, while shipping to Europe costs about 5,000 to 8,000 RMB per vehicle.
The calculation methods for import duties vary across countries. In some African nations, duties are tiered based on vehicle displacement. Certain Middle Eastern regions apply progressive tax rates according to the vehicle’s age. In parts of Southeast Asia, an additional special tax of 10% to 15% may be imposed on used luxury cars. For example, Gabon levies a 30% tariff and an 18% value-added tax, both calculated based on the vehicle’s CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) price.
How long does it take to transport used cars? The overall timeline consists of the domestic preparation phase and the international shipping phase.The preparation of domestic used cars generally takes 10-14 days.International shipping times vary by destination and method: – The total cycle for shipping used cars to Southeast Asia by sea is approximately 20 days. – Sea freight to Europe: approximately 35 days – Land transport to neighboring countries: approximately 5 days – Air freight: 3-5 days
Basic vehicle documents are required, such as a clear vehicle identification number (VIN) matching the registration certificate, along with the vehicle qualification certificate. Export procedure documents are also needed, such as the Motor Vehicle Export License. Some countries additionally require a Vehicle Inspection Report (e.g., EU CE certification) or a Certificate of Origin.
All documents for customs clearance must be complete and consistent in information; otherwise, vehicles may be held at the port and fail to be released. It is advisable to connect with a reliable local customs broker in advance and familiarize yourself with the local customs procedures and required documents.