To import a car from China you need ten core documents: proforma invoice, commercial invoice, packing list, sales contract, bill of lading (or sea waybill for RoRo), China used-car export licence, customs export declaration, CCIC pre-shipment inspection certificate, certificate of origin (or FTA certificate), and the vehicle's original registration and deregistration record. Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, UAE and Saudi Arabia will not clear a car without a recognised pre-shipment inspection certificate.
Key Facts Table
| Document | Issued by | Critical for |
|---|---|---|
| Proforma Invoice (PI) | Exporter, before payment | Bank T/T, opening L/C |
| Commercial Invoice | Exporter | Customs duty assessment |
| Bill of Lading / Sea Waybill | Carrier | Title document — no B/L, no car |
| Export Licence (used cars) | Licensed Chinese exporter | Private sellers cannot legally export |
| CCIC/CIQ certificate | CCIC | Mandatory for KE, NG, TZ, AE, SA |
| Certificate of Origin / FORM E / RCEP | CCPIT / customs | Cuts duty under FTAs |
Why documents fail at the port
Missing paperwork is the single most common reason a car sits at the destination port racking up demurrage. Consignee name spelling must match your import licence exactly. Declared value must match the invoice used for payment — mismatches now trigger cross-checks against Chinese export declarations.
Four practical rules
- Ask for scanned copies of all documents before the vessel sails.
- Under an L/C, list only documents you can actually obtain.
- Apply for the RCEP or China-ASEAN FTA certificate before shipment — it can cut duty substantially.
- Keep inspection certificate, deregistration record and VIN photos together with shipping documents.
FAQ
Who arranges the CCIC inspection? The licensed exporter books CCIC before vessel booking closes. Scope covers roadworthiness, odometer verification, VIN authenticity, emission compliance and customs valuation.
Can a private Chinese seller export a car? No. China requires an export licence issued to a licensed used-car exporter.