Car export to China: Customs & document guide

February 3, 2026
Reading time: 3 minutes

Brief overview: Exporting a car to China is not „paperwork on the side“, but a strictly regulated process of Customs, Market access, Conformity and cleaner Document management. Who the customs regulations china car checking the data quality (VIN, dimensions, values, HS code) at an early stage and preparing the right evidence reduces downtimes, additional claims and queries from the authorities. This guide shows you in a practical way how to plan export and import in a structured manner - without giving specific prices. A personalised quote is always required for reliable costs.


1) Why China is particularly strict when it comes to car imports

China protects its own vehicle market and at the same time places high demands on Security, Environment and Product liability. This has a direct impact on every export shipment - regardless of whether it involves individual vehicles, fleets or project vehicles. In practice, three areas are crucial:

  • Customs & Taxes: Import duties depend on the correct HS code, the customs value determination and the product category.
  • Conformity & authorisation: Imported vehicles may trigger additional requirements (e.g. CCC/ type approval, proof of emissions, local authorisation).
  • Documents & data: Discrepancies between invoice, packing list, B/L and vehicle information (VIN, engine data) are among the most frequent causes of delays.

Important: The customs regulations china car not only concern „customs forms“, but also proof that China requires for import, release and subsequent registration.

Practical tip: Structured preparation saves time in the port. You can find the basics of handover and port processes here: What do I need to bear in mind for a RoRo shipment?


2) Process overview: From planning to customs release

  1. Define project scope: Vehicle type, condition, drive, Incoterms, time window.
  2. Regulatory check: Import specifications, conformity, emission and safety requirements.
  3. Clarify data & HS code: VIN, technical data, exact classification.
  4. Create documents: Invoice, packing list, transport documents.
  5. Transport & Gate-In: Cut-offs, condition recording, loading.
  6. Import clearance: Import declaration, duties, release.

An official overview of import requirements can be found at Trade.gov: China - Import Requirements and Documentation


3) Central documents for exporting cars to China

3.1 Commercial and transport documents

  • Commercial Invoice (with VIN, value, Incoterms)
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading or Sea Waybill
  • Insurance certificate (recommended)

3.2 Vehicle-related documents

  • Proof of ownership and vehicle registration
  • VIN identification (standardised in all documents)
  • Technical data (dimensions, weight, drive)

3.3 Conformity & certifications

Depending on the import purpose, additional requirements such as the China Compulsory Certification (CCC) may be relevant. You can find an overview at TÜV SÜD, for example: CCC Mark and Certification


4) Customs & duties: What's behind the customs regulations

The customs regulations china car are based on HS code, customs value and vehicle characteristics. Errors often lead to delays or additional claims. Specific rates depend on the individual case - we therefore deliberately do not quote prices.


5) Transport types: RoRo or container?

  • RoRo: Efficient for ready-to-drive vehicles, standardised processes.
  • Container: More protection, but higher congestion and documentation costs.

You can find a practical preparation guide here: Checklist for RoRo shipping


6) Checklist: Car export to China

PhaseTest pointsCommon errors
RegulationConformity, import purposeChecked too late
dataVIN, HS code, technical dataInconsistent information
DocumentsInvoice, packing list, B/LUnclear description of goods

FAQ

Which documents are crucial for exporting cars to China?

Invoice, packing list, transport documents and proof of vehicle and ownership are central. Depending on the case, proof of conformity may also be required.

Why is the HS code so important?

It determines the customs tariff treatment and is the basis for duties and audits within the scope of the customs regulations china car.

Can I calculate customs costs exactly in advance?

Only with complete vehicle data and current rates. An individualised offer is always required for reliable figures.


Conclusion

Exporting cars to China requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to documents and classification. Whoever customs regulations china car and keeps all data consistent avoids delays and additional costs.


Disclaimer: All information in this article has been carefully researched but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the topicality, accuracy and completeness of the information provided.

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