Want to import a car from China? Airsupply is here to guide you through the process with ease. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the costs, logistics, and regulations of auto import from China.
China's export and import regulations explained
Export regulations for cars in China
China’s car export regulations aim to ensure top-notch quality and compliance with international standards. A critical requirement is the China Compulsory Certification (CCC), a mandatory step for all automotive products leaving the country.
The CCC process goes beyond basic checks. It rigorously evaluates a vehicle’s safety features, emissions compliance, and overall performance.
However, exporting a car from China involves more than just certification. There are also detailed customs procedures, export duties, and precise documentation that must be managed. For instance, you should prepare non-negotiable documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, and customs declaration form.
Understanding import laws in your country
The laws for Chinese imported cars can vary significantly across countries, covering everything from import duties to emissions standards and vehicle safety regulations.
For example, in the USA, vehicles must meet strict guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT).
However, for the car you are looking to import from China to the USA, chances are that the vehicle might not meet U.S. standards initially. Fortunately, there are two main options for importing a nonconforming vehicle:
- Certification
A nonconforming vehicle can be brought into the U.S. if modified and tested to meet EPA and DOT standards. These modifications must be certified by an Independent Commercial Importer (ICI).
- Exemption
Alternatively, the EPA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) allow for temporary importation of nonconforming vehicles for specific purposes such as:
- Display
- Testing
- Non-residents
- Repair or alteration
- Racing/Competition
If your vehicle qualifies for an exemption, it must be imported under a CBP bond, and you’ll need to secure pre-approval from the EPA.
Navigating these complex processes alone can be challenging. That’s where Airsupply steps in—offering expertise to streamline the procedures and ensure smooth delivery. Ready to simplify your auto China import journey? Let us help.
Navigating the cost of importing cars from China
1. Shipping costs from China
Is this cost essential? Yes.
Shipping is an unavoidable expense when you import a car from China. The main options are sea and air shipping. However, air shipping can cost between $9,000 and $30,000, making it impractical for most. Sea freight, on the other hand, offers more affordable alternatives with varying delivery times.
Here are the estimated costs and delivery times for three prime sea freight methods:
Full container load (FCL) shipping
- Transit time: 15-45 days
- GP container cost: $3,000 – $9,000
LCL container services
- Transit time: 20-50 days
- Consolidated cost: $3,000 – $8,000
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping
- Transit time: 30-45 days
- Cost: $1,000 – $7,000
Choosing a trusted freight forwarder, like Airsupply, is essential to ensure your Chinese imported car arrives safely and on schedule. Shipping costs can vary depending on departure and destination ports, so it’s critical to research your options thoroughly.
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Import duty, custom bonds, or DOT bonds
Estimated cost: $1,750 – $8,750
Is this cost essential? Yes.
When your Chinese imported car arrives in the destination country, you’ll need to pay customs or DOT bonds and local import duties. Import taxes vary by country, with most nations charging 5-25% of the vehicle’s value. In some cases, the import duty may be higher.
For importing cars from China to the USA, it’s important to note that vehicles without a DOT certification label must be treated as nonconforming. To import such a car, you should work with a DOT-Registered Importer (RI) and post a DOT bond. The bond value is typically 1.5 times the car’s dutiable value.
3. VAT or GST
Estimated cost: $0 – $8,750
Is this cost essential? No.
The Value-Added Tax (VAT), also called GST in some regions, is another cost to consider. While some countries offer rebates or exemptions, VAT generally falls between 0% and 25% of the vehicle’s invoice price.
4. China registration and inspection fees
Estimated cost: $200 – $300
Is this cost essential? Yes.
Before shipping your car, you should register and inspect it by local authorities in China. This cost is typically less than 1% of the car’s price.
5. Local registration and insurance fees
Estimated cost: $700 – $1,500
Is this cost essential? Yes.
To legally drive the car at your destination, you must register it with the local authorities. Registration and insurance typically cost 2-4% of the car’s total price, with luxury vehicles often incurring higher fees.
6. Import brokerage costs
Estimated: $700 – $2,000
Is this cost essential? No.
Import brokerage fees are common when working with an intermediary such as a custom broker. These fees generally range from 2% to 3.5% of the car’s price.
7. Pre-import modifications
Estimated cost: $150 – $700
Is this cost essential? No.
A vehicle compliance certificate may be required before you receive import approval. Depending on your country’s emission and mpg standards, pre-import modifications might cost 1-2% of the vehicle’s price. Personal modifications (such as altering the steering wheel or other features) are optional and not included in direct import costs.
A step-by-step guide to importing cars from China
When importing a car from China, the first step is to ensure the vehicle meets the import regulations of your destination country. Each country has its own set of rules regarding vehicle compliance.
Next, a thorough inspection is essential, whether you’re importing a brand-new or second-hand vehicle. It ensures the car meets international standards and is in optimal condition for shipment. For more details on preparation and packing, feel free to check out this article.
Then, select a reliable shipping company to transport the vehicle from China to your destination. If you don’t have a trusted Chinese auto shipper, consider partnering with an experienced agent, such as those at Airsupply, who specializes in auto China import and can guide you through the entire process.
Partnering with Airsupply for seamless car imports
At Airsupply, we make importing cars from China easy for hundreds of customers each year. From checking your vehicle’s eligibility to managing customs clearance, we handle it all. With our extensive expertise and customized solutions, we ensure every step is efficient, transparent, and successful.
FAQs:
What if the Chinese car I want to import is a classic or antique?
If the car you want to import from China is over 25 years old, you may qualify for special exemptions. Under the 25-year rule in the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act of 1988 (IVSCA), vehicles aged 25 years or older are exempt from certain safety and emissions requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT).
What are the common pitfalls when importing cars from China & how can you avoid them?
These often include underestimating costs, overlooking legal and regulatory requirements, and poor logistics planning. How can you avoid these pitfalls? By planning ahead, understanding the full cost of ownership, partnering with a trusted ASLG forwarder, and maintaining clear communication throughout the process.
