Many of our customers, after browsing the Chinese used cars on our website, marveled at the competitive prices and came to ask if they can import used cars from China. Absolutely yes! In this article, we will start with a general explanation of the steps and considerations the buyers need to go through.

Why Import China Used Cars from CAR Field?

For used car dealers, the cost of purchasing vehicles directly determines profit margins. Used cars from CAR Field are often 15-30% cheaper than others for the same models. This price advantage is not by chance, but stems from the following three core factors:

Natural Price Depression in China Used Cars Market

China used cars market offers tremendous economic advantages. As the world’s largest automobile producer, who annual output of more than 27 million units, China has an abundant supply of new cars and a white-hot price war for new cars, and the national demand for used cars is relatively low, resulting in the used car market being in a state of “supply exceeding demand”.

At the same time, the Chinese government’s subsidy policy for new energy vehicles has accelerated the elimination of fuel vehicles, further depressing the price of quality used fuel vehicles. The price of a 3-year-old Levin in China is usually 40% lower than in the Middle East and 30% lower than in Africa. For example, the average price of a used 2021 Levin in China is only $6,500, while in the UAE is $10,000 USD.

Unique Used Cars Business Model

CAR Field creates a bargaining advantage for used car dealers through a unique chain of operations:

• Ample Used Cars inventory

The parent company, CAR.Inc, enters into annual 10,000-unit-level purchase agreements with automobile manufacturers, with a single batch of up to 3,000+ units, and receives a wholesale price 22% lower than the retail market at the new vehicle purchasing stage, which will be put to use in the rental car business and then be the inventory of used cars sale department.

• Precise Retirement Timing

All vehicles service CAR Inc. rental department for 18-24 months, driving 50,000-100,000 miles. The residual value of vehicles is still maintained by more than 75%. This also ensures that the history of those used cars at CAR Field is completely transparent and the quality of the cars is guaranteed.

• Cost Sharing Mechanism

CAR Inc.’s car rental business has already covered the depreciation cost of those vehicles in the early stage, so that the selling price of CAR Field used cars can be 10% lower than the same mileage of the private car source.

Not all China Used Cars Have “Ready-to-sell” Condition

CAR Field’s used cars undergo a 182-point mechanical inspection, including engine condition, transmission fluids and other key indicators. Click here to see a sample of our inspection report. The actual condition of used cars can be verified, ensuring that dealers do not need to spend time on upholstery and maintenance. Those used cars are ready to be sold directly.

CAR Field delivered 50 used Nissan Sylphy to dealers in the UAE in 2024, and they were sold out within 3 days of arrival. The dealer said: “These cars were 25% lower than the local dealer’s offer and saved 2 weeks of preparation time, making an extra $1800 profit per car.”

The price advantage of used cars doesn’t mean the loss of quality. On the contrary, CAR Field has achieved the perfect balance of lower purchase prices and higher resale profit through our scale of operation and strict car control.

What is the process for importing China Used Cars?

STEP 1: Select a Trusted Used Cars Supplier

The key to a seamless pre-owned vehicles import lies in selecting a trustworthy and experienced used cars supplier. Rather than navigating complex sourcing, documentation, and logistics alone, partnering with an established auto importer like CAR Field eliminates risks and streamlines operations. Sending initial inquiry here.

STEP 2: Choose Vehicles & Negotiate Price

Click here to check CAR Filed’s used cars inventory. Not all cars are showing on our website. If you have special needs, feel free to contact us.

STEP 3: Shipping Terms & Calculate Cost

CAR Field understands that every used cars dealer has unique logistics requirements, so we provide four comprehensive shipping terms to accommodate different business needs.

Our EXW (Ex Works) option offers the most basic arrangement where customers assume full responsibility for used cars pickup, international shipping, and customs clearance, making it the most economical choice for experienced importers with established logistics networks. For those who prefer a more balanced approach, our FOB (Free on Board) service includes delivery to the designated Chinese port while used cars buyers manage the ocean freight, insurance, and destination clearance processes. We also offer complete CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight) solutions where we handle all aspects including vehicle cost, marine insurance, and sea freight to buyers’ destination port, particularly suitable for first-time used cars importers seeking comprehensive support. For the ultimate convenience, our DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) service provides true door-to-door delivery that covers every step from pickup to final destination, including all applicable duties and taxes, ensuring a completely hassle-free experience.

Our shipping solutions stand out for their complete transparency with no hidden fee. We have the real-time calculation feature in each used car detail page to help buyers get budgeting information immediately.

If you need any assistance, our dedicated logistics specialists are available to provide personalized recommendations tailored to your specific import requirements. Contact us.

STEP4: Contract Signing & Deposit Payment

Once personal buyers or dealers have selected desired used cars models, quantities, and shipping methods, CAR Field will proceed with the formal agreement to secure the order. Upon receiving the deposit, CAR Field will officially book the selected used cars in our system and prepare for the following shipment.

STEP5: Inspections & Documentation

Prior to shipment, CAR Field will conduct rigorous quality verification and prepare all necessary export documentation to ensure smooth customs clearance at destination.

STEP6: Shipping & Arrive

CAR Field provides tailored shipping solutions based on the chosen trade terms.

All shipments include:

• GPS-tracked container transport
• Weekly voyage updates
• 48-hour pre-arrival notification

Upon arrival, CAR Field destination agents assist with:

• Customs clearance (for DDP orders)
• Final quality verification
• Dealer pickup coordination

Then for the next, the used cars will be ready for dealership preparation and retail sale.

STEP7: After-Sales Support

CAR Field stands behind every used cars we export with comprehensive after-sales support to ensure personal buyers’ satisfaction and the dealership’s success. All our used cars come with warranties (depending on model and year). Our global network of authorized service centers in over 35 countries guarantees hassle-free warranty claims and maintenance support for future customers.

For added customer retention, high-volume used cars buyers receive additional benefits, including staff training, co-branded promotions, and early access to premium inventory.

Things to note when importing China used cars

Verify Used Cars Import Regulations

Different countries have different regulations for importing used cars and different requirements for dealers. For example, the UAE requires used cars to meet Euro 4 emissions standards and prohibits imports of vehicles older than 5 years. Similarly, Nigeria restricts right-hand drive imports and enforces a 15-year age limit. Always confirm these rules in advance and secure the necessary import permits to avoid customs delays or rejections.

Verify Used Cars History

Many used car dealers collect used cars from private owners, concealing and fabricating the condition of the car in order to sell it as quickly as possible. Individual buyers and inexperienced used car dealers are easy to be deceived in cross-border transactions. CAR Field’s inspection system helps buyers to restore the true condition of each used cars as much as possible. The inspection report includes accident records, mileage verification and maintenance records, ensuring buyers have comprehensive information before purchasing. This level of disclosure minimizes the risk of fraud or dispute.

Focus on Tax and Hidden Costs

When importing China used cars, careful cost calculation is essential to avoid budget overruns. International buyers must account for import duties. For example, the Middle East country may charge 5%-50% import tax, VAT 5-15%, and potential excise taxes. Shipping costs range from $1,000-$3,500 depending on method, with insurance adding 1-2% of the used cars’ value.

Hidden expenses often include customs clearance fees ($200-$800), port storage charges for delays ($50-$200/day), and compliance modifications ($500-$2,000). Transit times to the Middle East take 3-6 weeks, with potential monsoon delays in summer. Used cars buyers could verify FOB prices, negotiate using professional inspection reports, and consider consolidated shipments to reduce costs. Partnering with experienced logistics providers and using online duty calculators can help prevent unexpected charges and ensure smooth customs clearance.

Still have questions on importing Chinese used cars? Drop them in the comments or contact us, and we’ll respond promptly. For more insights, check our blog or contact our support team—we’re happy to assist!