Vehicle Export Documentation
A clear overview of the documents commonly required to export used cars from China.
Documents commonly involved in a China used-car export
The document set for a used-vehicle export from China is built around the specific unit, the buyer's legal name and the agreed trade term. Documents commonly involved include:
- Commercial invoice — the vehicle, the agreed price and the trade term named in the contract.
- Packing list — unit-level reference for the shipment.
- Certificate of origin — origin evidence for customs in the destination market.
- Export licence or export permit — where the vehicle category requires one for export from China.
- Bill of lading or sea waybill — the carrier document issued for the ocean leg.
- Vehicle registration and transfer documents — the supporting title documents for the unit.
- Condition or inspection record — the evidence prepared for the VIN, where the buyer requests it.
The exact set depends on the destination market, the vehicle category and the Incoterm, so it is confirmed in writing for each order rather than fixed in advance.
What the buyer should confirm before shipment
- That the invoice, contract and bill of lading name the same legal entity.
- That the vehicle identification number on the documents matches the unit inspected.
- That the destination customs, conformity and registration requirements have been checked with a licensed local importer or broker.
- That the document language, consignee details and port of discharge are acceptable in the destination market.
Review how condition evidence is prepared · Compare FOB and CIF terms
Frequently asked questions
Who prepares the export documents?
APXAUTO prepares and coordinates the export-side documents for the order. Destination clearance documents are the responsibility of the buyer or their appointed broker unless agreed otherwise in writing.
Are the documents issued in English?
Documents are prepared for the order and the naming, language and consignee details are agreed with the buyer before issuance, since destination requirements differ.
Can documents be issued for a multi-vehicle order?
Yes. Multi-unit and mixed-model orders are handled as a single shipment file where the shipping arrangement allows it.
Do you guarantee customs clearance?
No. Customs clearance, duty assessment and conformity approval are decided by the destination authority, so no exporter can guarantee the outcome. Confirm the rules that apply to you independently.
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