China Vehicle Import Guide

China Car Export Documents Checklist

Preparing documents early helps prevent delays between vehicle purchase, export clearance, shipping and destination customs. Exact requirements vary by vehicle type, destination and current local rules, so confirm the final list with your customs broker.

Common document checklist

  • Commercial invoice: Shows the seller, buyer, vehicle description, value and agreed delivery term.
  • Sales contract or purchase order: Confirms the vehicle, trim, quantity, price and payment conditions.
  • Vehicle information: VIN or chassis number, model year, trim, battery details where applicable and condition.
  • Export declaration: Supports customs processing in the exporting country.
  • Certificate of origin: May be requested by the destination customs authority or finance provider.
  • Bill of lading: Issued for the shipment and used to identify the cargo and destination port.
  • Inspection or condition report: Particularly important for used cars and fleet purchases.
  • Insurance certificate: Check whether marine insurance is included when the quotation is CIF.

New cars and used cars may require different checks

For a new car, confirm the exact production year, trim, battery or engine configuration and whether the vehicle is eligible for export to your market. For a used car, request the VIN, mileage evidence, ownership information and a condition report before final payment.

Before the vehicle is shipped

  1. Match the VIN or chassis number across the invoice, inspection report and shipping documents.
  2. Confirm the consignee, notify party and destination port spelling.
  3. Ask whether the quote is EXW, FOB or CIF and list excluded destination costs.
  4. Check charging plugs, voltage, language settings and local registration requirements for EVs.
  5. Send the document set to your destination customs broker before the vessel departs.

Keep a digital document pack

Store the signed contract, invoice, payment record, inspection materials, export documents and bill of lading together. A consistent file name using the VIN or chassis number makes it easier for your logistics team to match each vehicle.

Need help preparing an export order?

Start with the vehicle specifications library or read our FOB, CIF and EXW guide before requesting a quotation.

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