Got Questions about Importing Cars from China?
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
1. How to Buy? (Major Steps)
Please follow the major steps below to complete a successful purchase at SuhAuto.com.
1. Find a car you like from our website on the Car Collections Page.
2. Send an inquiry and provide us with your information to receive feedback, and then we will issue an invoice for the desired vehicle. The invoice will include all payment details, such as purchase conditions, payment destination bank account, deadlines, and payment method.
3. Take the invoice to your preferred bank and make the payment as stated. Share the T/T copy within 72 hours of invoice issuance to secure your purchase.
4. Receive purchase confirmation, shipping & other details from SuhAuto.com.
5. Receive B/L and other standard documents upon shipment of the vehicle.
6. Upon arrival of the vehicle at your port, receive it. The time to receive the car will depend on when payment is made and your final destination. Additionally, at your port, you will need to pay clearing customs fees to your clearing agent and customs duty and tax to your government. We suggest contacting the clearing agent in your country to obtain detailed information on customs clearance fees and duty VAT fees.
2. How do you ensure the quality of the used cars you sell?
We take the quality of our vehicles very seriously. Every car is thoroughly inspected by certified mechanics before it is listed for sale. This inspection includes checking the engine, transmission, suspension, and brake systems, as well as reviewing the car’s exterior and interior condition. Additionally, we provide a full report on each vehicle, which includes maintenance history, mileage verification, and any past accidents (if applicable). We also perform a test drive to assess performance and ensure that the vehicle is in optimal working condition. We aim to give you complete transparency so that you can make an informed decision about your purchase.
3. How many vehicles do you have in your inventory and how often are they updated?
We maintain an extensive inventory of over 5,000 vehicles, which is updated daily with new additions and changes.
4. How can I view your available inventory?
We offer a user-friendly online platform where you can browse our full inventory of vehicles. Each listing includes high-quality images, a detailed description of the car’s specifications, and relevant details such as year of manufacture, mileage, and any additional features. Additionally, our customer service team is available to provide personalized recommendations based on your needs. If you are looking for a specific make or model that is not listed, feel free to contact us, and we can assist in sourcing it for you.
5. What types of vehicles do you offer?
We offer a broad range of vehicles to suit different buyer needs, including sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, trucks, vans, and commercial vehicles etc. Our inventory includes cars from well-known manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi, among others. Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient city car or a heavy-duty commercial vehicle, we can cater to your needs. We also offer a variety of vehicles with different engine sizes, configurations, and features, including luxury cars, family vehicles, and eco-friendly hybrids.
6. Do you offer warranties or after-sales services?
Yes, we offer limited warranties on most of the vehicles we sell. The terms of the warranty depend on the age and condition of the vehicle. In general, our warranty covers mechanical breakdowns, and we offer both parts and labor coverage. In addition to the warranty, we also provide after-sales support, including advice on vehicle maintenance, troubleshooting, and assistance with any issues that arise post-purchase. We aim to build long-term relationships with our customers and are always available to assist with any concerns after the sale.
7. Can I request a customized vehicle search?
Yes, we can assist in sourcing vehicles based on your specific requirements. Whether you’re looking for a particular model, color, or configuration, we can search for available options both domestically and internationally. We have strong relationships with local and international suppliers, which allows us to offer a wide range of vehicle choices. Simply let us know the specifications you are interested in, and we will provide you with available options.
8. Are your vehicles ready for export, or do they need additional preparation?
Our vehicles are fully prepared for export before shipment. This includes all necessary inspections, paperwork, and certifications that may be required by customs authorities. Depending on the destination country’s regulations, we may also need to make certain modifications to the vehicle (such as adjusting the emissions system or fitting new tires). If any modifications or additional preparations are necessary, we will inform you beforehand and handle the process on your behalf.
9. Do you have a showroom I can visit?
Yes, we operate a physical showroom where you can view a selection of vehicles in person, we welcome you to schedule a visit. Our showroom features a range of vehicles, and you can inspect them firsthand before making a purchase. We also offer test drives, and our staff will be happy to answer any questions you have.
10. Can I see the vehicle before purchasing?
Yes, we offer detailed photos, videos, and inspection reports. For in-person inspections, you can visit our facilities or schedule an inspection with our partner representatives in specific regions.
11. Do you assist with vehicle registration in my country?
No, registration is the buyer’s responsibility as it varies by country. However, we can provide all necessary documents to facilitate the registration process, such as the Export Certificate and Bill of Lading.
12. Are the cars modified to meet import regulations?
Some countries require modifications, such as emissions compliance or safety standards (e.g., fog lights or airbags). We can assist with these changes before shipment if requested.
13. Can I arrange a third-party inspection before purchase?
Absolutely. We highly encourage third-party inspections to give you peace of mind before making a purchase. You can choose an independent inspection service to review the vehicle’s condition. We are happy to coordinate with the inspector and provide access to the vehicle for inspection. Once the inspection is complete, we will review the report with you and address any concerns you may have.
14. Are all vehicles compliant with emission and safety standards in my country?
We ensure that all our vehicles meet the basic safety and emission standards of the country they were originally sold in. However, specific compliance requirements can vary greatly from one country to another. Before purchasing, we recommend checking the regulations in your country regarding vehicle emissions and safety standards. If your country requires specific modifications, we can assist in making those adjustments or help guide you through the compliance process.
15. How can I find the right car?
A right car is one that meets your preferences for model, color, year, and, most importantly, your budget.
SuhAuto.com’s search engine allows you to search and filter by multiple criteria, making it much easier to find the car you’re looking for.
You can also adjust the order of the results based on factors such as year, quality, price, etc., to facilitate comparison. If you’re still unsure which car is right for you, please send us a quick query at sale@suhauto.com, and we’ll recommend your dream car.
16. What is your minimum order quantity?
We cater to both individual buyers and bulk purchasers. For individual buyers, you can order a single car. Bulk discounts are available for orders of three or more vehicles.
17. Do you sell damaged or salvage cars?
Normally no, but we can source damaged or salvage cars upon request. These vehicles are typically sold at lower prices and are suitable for buyers intending to repair or rebuild them.
18. How do I send an inquiry?
To send an inquiry, follow these steps:
1. Find the vehicle you are interested in.
2. Fill in the details in the form for that vehicle, located on the right side of the page.
3. Confirm your inquiry by clicking ‘Submit’.
19. Can I negotiate the price of the car?
Prices are generally competitive and fixed. However, we are open to negotiations for bulk purchases or regular customers.
20. When does the purchase contract come into effect?
After we sign the contract.
21. How long will you hold a vehicle for me?
As long as you meet your payment terms (72 hours for providing the T/T copy and 120 hours for payment confirmation at our bank, from the time of invoicing), the product will be reserved for you.
22. Does the FOB price include additional costs such as freight, storage charges, taxes and duties, etc.?
No, the FOB prices do not include additional costs such as freight, storage charges, taxes, and duties. The term ‘FOB price’ specifically refers to the price of the vehicle and all the domestic handling fees before loading the vehicle onto a vessel or a train. When purchasing a vehicle from us, you should add freight charges to the FOB price. Additionally, upon receipt of the vehicle, you will be responsible for payment of import duties, taxes, and any other applicable fees required by your country or port of discharge. We recommend contacting your local authorities or a reputable clearing agent for further details.
23. Will you be able to show me the condition of the vehicle?
In order to assist you in making an informed purchase decision, we offer more than 20 detailed images of each vehicle in our inventory.
24. Do you list the year of manufacture of your vehicles?
Yes, we list the year of manufacture.
25. Does the car come with an English manual?
No, the vehicles we sell are Chinese vehicles that have been previously owned and operated in China. Therefore, any manuals provided with the vehicle will be in Chinese.
26. Are spare keys provided?
Spare keys are not guaranteed to be provided with the vehicle. If spare keys are not found in the vehicle’s glove box, they are typically not included. However, occasionally a car may come with a spare key, in which case we will certainly send it to you. If you require an additional spare key, you can request one for an extra charge and additional time.
27. Can you install audio systems or other parts like alloy wheels?
Yes, we offer installation services for audio systems and other parts such as alloy wheels. Please inform us of your installation requirements before requesting the invoice. Please note that additional charges may apply for extra installations or modifications, and the total processing time will depend on the complexity of the modifications.
28. Can I ask you to change the vehicle odometer (mileage)?
No, altering a vehicle’s mileage is illegal and unethical. SuhAuto.com strictly adheres to legal regulations and does not engage in illegal activities, including odometer tampering.
29. Can I purchase RHD cars from SuhAuto.com?
No, altering a vehicle’s mileage is illegal and unethical. SuhAuto.com strictly adheres to legal regulations and does not engage in illegal activities, including odometer tampering.
30. Is it possible to ship car parts in the car that I am buying?
Yes, generally, vehicle parts can be shipped with the vehicle, provided that we declare them truthfully to customs. However, please be aware that not all parts can be shipped with the vehicle; the specific situation needs to be analyzed case by case.
31. Can I cancel my order?
Yes, you can, but if we have already incurred costs by the time you cancel the order, you will need to bear these costs.
32. What are the rules for canceling a purchase?
Cancellation rules vary depending on the stage of your transaction. Please review the cancellation policies below:
1. Before sending any money: You may cancel at any time before sending any money. Please notify us as soon as possible.
2. After payment: If we have received your payment, a cancellation fee of 50% of the invoice amount or US$2000, whichever is higher, will be charged. We will refund the remaining amount after deducting the fees, with expenses covered by your bank.
3. After sharing the shipping schedule: No order cancellations will be accepted, and no refund will be available.
4. Failure to provide accurate and required information: If SuhAuto.com is unable to process export/delivery procedures due to the buyer’s inability to provide accurate and required information within 30 days from the payment confirmation date, the deal will be considered canceled from the buyer’s side. The buyer will be charged according to the terms and conditions.
33. What are your office hours?
Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (China Standard Time, GMT+8). You can check the current Chinese standard time here:http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/china/shanghai
Please note that our office is closed on Saturdays, Sundays.
If urgent matters, emergency call 24/7.
34. Can I arrange a visit to see your vehicles in person?
You are welcome to visit by scheduling an appointment in advance.
35. Do you inspect cars before shipping?
All vehicles undergo thorough inspections to ensure that there are no discrepancies between the actual specifications and those listed on the specification sheet.
Please note that some countries may require a pre-export inspection before the vehicle can be exported. We recommend contacting the appropriate government agency in your country to obtain a list of all required pre-export inspections. While enforcement of this regulation may vary, some countries have begun imposing heavy fines for violations. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the terms of your purchase include inspection, if required by your country’s government.
36. Are there quality standards in China for car export?
There are two sets of inspection standards for used cars to be exported from China:
– (WM/T8-2022) ‘Quality Requirements for Used Passenger Car Export’.
– (WM/T9-2022) ‘Quality Requirements for Export of Used Commercial Vehicles and Trailers’.
SuhAuto.com will help our customers to ensure that the vehicles they purchase fully comply with the above national standards.
Payment Questions
1. How do I pay?
To pay for a car, you need an invoice from us. Once the terms of purchase (CIF/FOB/inspection/etc.), including the price, have been agreed upon, we will issue you an invoice for the relevant product based on the agreed terms. The invoice will include all details related to payment, including terms of purchase, bank account for payment, terms, method of payment, etc. If you choose to pay by bank transfer, please take the invoice to your preferred bank and make the payment accordingly.
Please note that sending us the T/T copy (payment receipt from your bank) as soon as possible is crucial to finalizing your purchase.
2. How much is the deposit to secure a vehicle?
A deposit of 30% of the total vehicle price is required to confirm the order. The remaining balance must be paid before the vehicle is shipped. Once the deposit is received, we will reserve the vehicle and begin the export process, which includes preparing the necessary paperwork and shipping arrangements. The deposit is non-refundable, except in cases where the vehicle is not as described or fails to meet quality standards.
3. Can I pay in foreign currencies?
Yes, we accept payments in a range of international currencies, including USD, EUR, and GBP. Our invoicing system automatically adjusts to the exchange rate of the currency being used for payment. We will provide a detailed breakdown of the cost in your selected currency, including the vehicle price, shipping costs, and any applicable fees. You can make payments in the currency most convenient for you.
4. What happens if my payment is delayed?
If payment deadlines are not met, your order may be delayed or canceled. For delayed payments, storage fees may apply, especially if the vehicle is already prepared for shipment.
5. Can I pay using cryptocurrencies?
Currently, we do not accept cryptocurrencies as a payment method. We encourage secure and traceable payment options such as bank transfers .
6. What’s the safest way to make a payment?
The safest way to make a payment for international transactions is typically via bank transfer (TT), especially for larger sums. This method ensures that both parties are protected, and the transaction is documented through your bank. If you are using a letter of credit, the bank guarantees payment once all terms of the contract are met. We also support PayPal for smaller transactions, as it offers buyer protection, ensuring that funds are only released once both parties are satisfied.
7. Will I receive an invoice for my payment?
Yes, once your payment is received, we will issue an official commercial invoice that details the transaction. This invoice will include the vehicle details, shipping costs, and any additional charges. The invoice is essential for customs clearance and tax purposes. It will serve as the official record of the transaction.
8. Do you charge any additional fees for payment processing?
We do not charge any hidden fees for payment processing. However, depending on the payment method, your bank or payment service provider may charge transaction fees. For instance, wire transfers may incur a small fee for processing, and international payments might attract currency conversion charges. We recommend confirming with your bank or payment provider before initiating the transaction.
9. What happens if I miss a payment deadline?
If you miss a payment deadline, please notify us as soon as possible to avoid any issues. We can discuss potential extensions or alternate arrangements depending on the situation. If the payment delay exceeds a reasonable time frame, the order may be canceled, and the deposit may be forfeited. For large orders, we highly recommend arranging for timely payments to avoid delays in shipping and processing.
10. How do I know the bank account information to make a payment?
The bank account information to make a payment is on the invoice. If you do not have an invoice, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can issue one for you.
11. What payment methods can we use?
We accept payments solely via bank transfer.
Please note that we do not accept payments via L/C (Letter of Credit), credit card, or cash.
All payments must be made within the designated period and in the currency specified on the invoice.
12. Can I pay in installments?
Currently, we only accept 100% payment via TT (Telegraphic Transfer) before shipment.
In the TT payment process, you will need to make the total payment through any bank of your choice.
After the payment, please send us the TT copy, and we will initiate the shipping process.
All necessary documents will be sent to you via DHL, and you can expect to receive the car within 35-45 days.
13. What is the payment deadline?
There are two steps of our payment terms.
The first step is to share the T/T copy within 72 hours since the invoice was issued.
The second step is for the money to reach our bank within 120 hours since the invoice was issued.
Meeting the deadline in both steps is essential for a successful purchase.
If we do not receive the T/T copy within 72 hours, or if we do not receive confirmation of the money transfer from our bank within 120 hours, the corresponding product will become available for other buyers.
14. How long does it take for my bank wire to be transferred to your bank account?
Please allow a minimum of three (3) business days for your wire transfer to be reflected in our bank account. While this delay may cause some inconvenience, it is the average time required for interbank transactions. Rest assured, once the payment is received, we will promptly proceed with processing your order.
15. I made a payment to the wrong account (not as an invoice), what should I do?
We apologize for the inconvenience. Unfortunately, we are unable to assist directly in this situation. We recommend contacting the recipient of the mistaken payment and requesting them to transfer the funds to our account within the payment deadline. Once the payment is received, we will proceed with the shipping process for your purchased product. If you need further assistance or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
16. Can I cancel my order after making a deposit?
Generally, once a deposit has been made and the order has been confirmed, cancellations are not accepted. However, if the vehicle has not yet been shipped, we may be able to discuss alternative options. If the vehicle does not meet the agreed specifications or has been misrepresented, we will work with you to resolve the situation. It is important to carefully review all details before making a deposit to ensure your satisfaction with the purchase.
17. Can I get a receipt for my payment?
No, we do not provide receipts. The bank wire transaction serves as an official written record of the payment transaction for both the buyer and the seller. If you require proof of payment, you can obtain it from your bank, as they will provide documentation confirming the transaction.
18. Who is responsible for paying the bank transfer fee?
The buyer is responsible for covering all bank charges. Please ensure the cost of these fees with your bank before finalizing the purchase agreement with us.
19. If I purchase a vehicle at $ 2,000, how much will I have to pay as extra charges?
If the price is FOB, you will have to pay:
● Customs clearance fee
● Import duty
● Registration fee
● Compliance fee
● Any other applicable fees according to the import regulations of your country.
If the price is C&F, you have to add the freight charge from the above list.
Please note that the ‘import tax’ of the car in your importing country is not included in the CIF or C&F price. You must pay the import tax of a car once the car reaches your port. If you want to know the import tax of a car, please ask any shipping agent in your area or selected port.
20. What is the refund policy if I cancel my order?
Refunds depend on the stage of the order:
- Before procurement: Full deposit refund.
- After procurement but before shipment: Refund minus administrative and handling fees.
- After shipment: No refund, as costs are already incurred.
Logistics & Shipping Questions
1. What information do you need to book a shipping vessel for my vehicle?
To book a vessel for your cargo, we require the following information. Please review the details carefully and ensure all requested information is provided. Most of this information is necessary for the contracted shipping lines.
1. Port of Discharge: This is the nearest port where the vessel will unload your cargo.
2. Vehicle Destination: Please specify the country where the vehicle will be registered and used.
3. Consignee: This refers to the intended owner of the vehicle. Please provide the consignee’s full name as well as the name as it appears on their passport or ID, complete address (no abbreviations), and phone number(s). It is crucial to provide all consignee information to receive your Bill of Lading (B/L) from the shipping company.
● Note: Incomplete or misspelled consignee information may result in delays and additional fees for B/L amendments.
4. Notify Party: This person will be contacted by the shipping agent to report the confirmed arrival date of your vessel at the port. If you have a private clearing agent, you may list them here. Otherwise, you can simply write ‘Same as Consignee.’
5. DHL Delivery Address: This information is necessary for us to send your documents, including your B/L, via DHL courier. Please provide the recipient’s full name, complete address (no abbreviations), and phone number(s). Incomplete information may lead to delays in document delivery.
2. What is the consignee?
The consignee is the ‘intended owner’ of the vehicle. Please provide the consignee’s full name, as well as the name as it appears on their passport or ID, along with their complete address (no abbreviations), and phone number(s).
When providing us with your booking information, it’s important to note the following:
● Your booking may be delayed by the shipping company if the full name and address of the consignee are not provided. Complete information is necessary.
● The consignee’s name must not be misspelled. Even the smallest error can result in a Bill of Lading (B/L) amendment, which may incur additional fees and time.
3. What is the Notify Party?
The Notify Party is the individual whom the shipping agent contacts to communicate the confirmed arrival date of your vessel at the port.
You have the option to list a private clearing agent as the Notify Party, but it is not mandatory, as listing a clearing agent on the Bill of Lading (B/L) is not required. If you do not have an agent, you can simply write ‘Same as Consignee’ for ease of processing.
4. What is the DHL shipping address?
The DHL shipping address refers to the information needed to send your documents, including the Bill of Lading (B/L), via DHL courier. Please provide the recipient’s full name, complete address (without abbreviations), and phone number(s).
It’s important to note that providing incomplete information may result in delays in the delivery of your documents.
5. Why do I need to provide the recipient's full name and address?
Complete information, including the recipient’s full name and address as it appears on their passport or ID card, is required by shipping companies. The Bill of Lading (B/L) is an official document that establishes ownership of the cargo, making accurate identification crucial.
Failure to provide the full name and address of the consignee may result in delays, as shipping companies require this information for processing.
It’s essential to avoid misspelling the consignee’s name, as even minor errors can necessitate a B/L amendment, incurring additional fees and time.
6. Why do I need to enter my full name and address for the DHL delivery address?
We request your full name and address for the DHL delivery address to ensure the successful dispatch of your documents, including the Bill of Lading (B/L), via DHL courier. Kindly provide the recipient’s complete name, address (without abbreviations), and phone number(s).
Please be aware that providing incomplete information may result in delays in the delivery of your documents.
7. How long will it take for my vehicle to arrive?
The shipping time depends on several factors, including the destination country, shipping method, and any potential customs delays. Typically, international shipments take between 4 to 8 weeks. We will provide you with an estimated delivery date once the vehicle has been shipped. Additionally, you will receive tracking details so you can follow the progress of the shipment.
8. Can I track the shipping vessel?
Yes, once the vehicle is shipped, we will provide you with tracking information and updates on the status of your shipment. This includes the estimated arrival time and any transit delays. Our logistics team will keep you informed and ensure that the vehicle arrives safely.
9. Why are there so many changes and delays in the shipping schedule?
The changes and delays in the shipping schedule are typically initiated by the contracted shipping companies. As the exporter, we do not have the authority to interfere with their decisions.
10. Where can I get the actual arrival date of the shipping vessel?
The shipping agent will inform the Notify Party provided on the Bill of Lading (B/L) about the arrival of the shipment. Alternatively, you may contact your shipping agent directly approximately one week before the estimated time of arrival (ETA) of the shipping vessel. Please ensure to communicate with your shipping agent for the most up-to-date information.
11. How can I change product recipient details?
If you need to change the product recipient information, you can do so within 5 days of receiving the invoice. Please submit your change request in the same thread where you made your original request. Kindly note that modifying the destination port may result in an adjustment to the total price.
12. Can I ask you to change vehicle information on the B/L or other documents?
No. We strictly adhere to legal and ethical standards. It is not permissible to request changes to vehicle information on the Bill of Lading (B/L) or any other document provided by Autocango.com. We are committed to conducting business lawfully and do not engage in any illegal activities under any circumstances.
13. What documentation will I receive from SuhAuto.com regarding my shipment?
As an importer, you should expect to receive the following documents from SuhAuto.com:
1. Bill of Lading (B/L)
2. Insurance document (if your purchase is CIF)
3. Export Certificate (also known as ‘Deregistration Certificate’ or ‘Cancellation of Registration’ form)
4. Commercial invoice
If mandated by your government, we will also provide:
1. Inspection Certificate
2. Export Permit (also referred to as ‘Bill of Entry’)
14. How can I track the documents that you send to me?
After we send you documents, we will email you the tracking number for them. You can use this tracking number to monitor the status of the documents sent to you.
15. What should I do if my purchased product has arrived at the port, but I have not yet received any documentation from your company?
In most cases, you should receive the documentation before the product arrives. Please track the document using the tracking number we provided. If you encounter any issues tracking the document or have concerns, please contact us.
16. Can you send me two sets of B/Ls - one for me and one for my clearing agent?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide two sets of B/Ls. Shipping companies typically issue only one set of B/Ls per shipment, regardless of requests for additional copies.
17. Is it possible to clear customs using PDFs of the B/L?
No, it is not possible to clear customs using PDFs of the B/L alone. However, you can complete approximately 60% of the customs clearance process using PDFs of the B/L. The remaining 40% of the process requires submission of the original B/L.
18. The customs office in my country requires a packing list. Can you provide this document?
We do not issue a separate packing list, but our commercial invoice serves as a comprehensive document that includes all necessary information typically found on a packing list. Past customers have successfully used the commercial invoice without any issues with customs authorities. If you have any concerns, please feel free to reach out to us.
19. What happens if the vehicle is damaged during shipping?
We take every precaution to ensure the vehicle is securely packed and transported. However, in the rare event of damage during shipping, we provide full insurance coverage. We will work with the shipping company and insurance provider to resolve the issue and ensure you are reimbursed for any damages. We recommend inspecting the vehicle upon arrival and reporting any damage immediately.
20. How do I handle the import in my country?
SuhAuto.com will arrange for your purchased product to be shipped to your final port of destination. The shipper in charge will provide you with all the standard documents required to release the product from your port, including 1 original Bill of Lading (B/L) document, 1 original export certificate of the product, and 1 original inspection certificate (if any). Upon the product’s arrival at your port, it becomes your responsibility to receive the car at the port and complete the necessary procedures. With the documents provided by SuhAuto.com, you or your designated clearing and forwarding agent will be able to release the product at your port.
21. I have received my car safely. What should I do next?
Congratulations!
We value your feedback and would love to hear about your experience with the product and our services. Please share your feedback with us, and if you’re willing, include a photo of you, your friends, or family with the product. With your permission, we may publish the photo on our website.
Trade Terms
1. B/L
Bill of Lading; a document issued by a carrier or its agent to a shipper as a contract for the carriage of goods. It is also a receipt for cargo accepted for transportation and must be presented for acceptance at the destination.
It is like a triple threat in the shipping world:
– Receipt: It’s proof the shipping company (carrier) has received your goods. Imagine it as a store receipt, but for international shipping.
– Details: It lists everything about your shipment, like the type, quantity, and destination of the goods, similar to an itemized shopping receipt.
– Contract: It acts as a simple agreement between you (the shipper) and the carrier, outlining their responsibilities for transporting your goods safely.
Think of it as a one-stop shop document for your shipment, crucial for smooth and secure international trade.
2. C&F / CNF
Cost and Freight; a term of sale meaning that the price charged or quoted by a seller for a shipment does not include insurance charges, but does include all costs to a named port of discharge.
3. CIF
Cost, Insurance and Freight; a term of sale meaning that the price charged or quoted by a seller includes insurance and all other charges to the named port of discharge.
4. Clearing Agent
A person or company authorized by international customs authorities to certify and manage shipments between countries. (i.e., they handle the customs clearance process for your vehicle).
5. Commercial Invoice
A document required by Customs to determine the true value of imported goods for assessment of duties and taxes.
6. Consignee
A person who will be the ‘owner’ of the vehicle after it is registered in the destination country.
7. DHL Delivery Address
Delivery address for the shipping documents (not the vehicle) to be used by Autocango.com to ship the documents to the buyer of the vehicle.
8. ETA
Estimated Time of Arrival; the date and time an air, sea, or rail journey is expected to arrive at a named city or port.
9. ETD
Estimated Time of Departure; the date and time an air, sea, or rail journey is expected to depart from a named city or port.
10. Export Certificate
A document confirming that the listed items are being legally exported from their country of origin (i.e., the vehicle’s previous registration in China has been canceled).
11. Export Permit
A document issued by the Chinese customs office to ensure that the shipment complies with applicable export control measures.
12. FOB
(1) SuhAuto.com’s price for the vehicle and all the domestic handling fees before loading the vehicle onto a vessel or a train.
(2) Free on Board; a term of sale in which the price charged or quoted by a seller includes all charges up to the time the goods are placed on board a vessel at the port of shipment.
13. Forwarding Agent
A person or company that arranges for the transportation of cargo from the port of discharge to the vehicle’s destination country.
14. Import Permit
A document issued by certain governments giving permission to import goods.
15. Inspection Certificate
Certification that the vehicle has passed the required pre-export inspection and therefore meets the required specifications and is in good condition and in the correct quantity when it leaves the port of departure.
16. Insurance Document
Proof of insurance for CIF shipments.
17. Notify Party
The person contacted by the shipping agent to provide the confirmed arrival date of the vessel carrying the cargo at the port.
18. Packing List
An itemized list included in the shipment that includes the quantity, description, and weight of the contents.
19. Port of Departure
The point of departure of a vessel or shipment.
20. Port of Discharge
The location where a vessel is unloaded and shipments are distributed to their respective consignees.
21. Pre-Export Inspection
Some countries require your vehicle to be inspected prior to export. If a car passes inspection, a valid certificate will be issued with full details of VIN, make and model. Please check with us if your destination requires this inspection.
22. Proforma Invoice
The ‘final estimate’ in the form of an invoice based on the selected vehicle and shipping terms.
23. Shipping Agent
An agency responsible for handling shipments and cargo at ports on behalf of shipping companies (i.e., they represent the shipping company).
24. Surrender BL
Each shipment usually takes 4-5 weeks on average. However, in some cases where the shipment of the product is fast or the ETD is close to the ETA date, Autocango.com will issue a BL. In this case, NO original BL will be sent by mail. Instead, a digital version of the Surrender BL will be sent to you via email. With this digital copy of the Surrender BL, you can print it out and use it to clear your product from the port.
25. Transshipment
The transfer of a shipment from one vessel to another while in transit to its final destination.
26. TT Copy
Telegraphic Transfer Copy; the paper copy of a bank transfer.
27. Under Offer
An offer to purchase the vehicle has been made by a potential buyer, making it unavailable for other customers to make an offer or receive a quote on that vehicle.
28. Vanning Charge/Fee
The charge for loading and securing a shipping container.
29. Vehicle Destination
The country where the vehicle will be registered for use.
30. What taxes or duties should I expect to pay?
Import taxes, duties, and VAT vary by country. Please consult with your local customs authority for specific rates. We can provide estimated costs based on prior shipments to your region.
31. Can you consolidate multiple vehicles into one shipment?
Yes, we can consolidate multiple cars in one container to save on shipping costs. The number of cars per container depends on vehicle size and shipping method.
32. How do you handle disputes over trade terms?
We follow international dispute resolution practices. If issues arise, we aim to resolve them amicably. For severe disputes, arbitration is conducted under internationally recognized regulations.
33. What happens if my car fails an inspection upon arrival?
Inspection failures can occur due to unforeseen local regulations. Notify us immediately, and we’ll help resolve the issue, such as re-exporting or refunding, depending on the agreement.
These FAQs cover the most common inquiries about buying vehicles from us. If you have any other questions or need further assistance, please feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re here to help make your buying experience as smooth and seamless as possible!