How long does it take to ship a car from China? From the day you confirm payment, plan on 4 to 8 weeks before the car is in your hands. Sailing time is only part of it.
Stage 1: Inspection and purchase — 3 to 7 days We inspect the unit, issue the photo and battery-health report, and complete the domestic purchase and de-registration paperwork.
Stage 2: Export documentation and booking — 5 to 10 days The export certificate, commercial invoice, packing list and customs declaration are prepared, and the container or RoRo slot is booked. Chinese public holidays, especially Chinese New Year and the October National Day week, add one to two weeks.
Stage 3: Sailing time Jebel Ali 18–24 days. Jeddah 20–28 days. Mombasa 25–32 days. Durban 28–35 days. Lagos 32–40 days. Klaipeda 35–45 days. Laem Chabang 7–12 days. Novorossiysk 35–45 days, or 18–25 days via the Khorgos land route into Central Asia.
Stage 4: Destination clearance — 3 to 21 days This varies more than the sailing. Jebel Ali often clears in 2–4 days, Mombasa 5–10 days, Lagos and Durban can take 2–3 weeks if inspection is required or documents are incomplete.
What causes delays Incorrect VIN or chassis details on the bill of lading, missing conformity certificates, an unpaid balance holding release of documents, and port congestion during the Q4 peak season. Getting your telex release or original bill of lading to the agent early is the single biggest time saver.