How to Bring a Car Purchased Abroad Back to China?
2 Answers
Need to be a nationally approved imported model, go through customs and pay full tariffs, consumption tax, and value-added tax before it can be brought back to the country. Below is the relevant introduction on how to bring a foreign car back to China: Transportation Requirements: Submit the Customs Goods Import Certificate, the Commodity Inspection Certificate of the import port, and the Import License for customs declaration (foreign-invested enterprises have an import license), complete customs tax payment, and submit the materials to pass. Transportation Issues: There are many companies specializing in international freight. Call to inquire if there are prices specifically for vehicle transportation. Transportation costs should already include insurance, miscellaneous port fees, etc. Generally, you can request the arrival port.
When buying a car abroad and bringing it back, I must emphasize that policies are the most crucial aspect. I know that importing a car from overseas involves strict customs requirements. For example, if you purchase a car in the EU and want to bring it into China, it must comply with the China 6 emission standards—otherwise, you might have to modify the exhaust system. You’ll also need to pay tariffs and value-added taxes, which are calculated based on the vehicle’s value and type, sometimes exceeding 20% of the car’s price. Don’t forget to prepare documents like the purchase invoice, certificate of origin, and vehicle registration, and submit them to designated agencies for safety inspections. Only after passing these inspections can the car be registered. The entire process requires patience, so I recommend checking the destination’s customs website or consulting a professional agent in advance to avoid complications that might prevent the car from entering. Classic or vintage cars might be exceptions, but overall, the procedures are complex and can take anywhere from several weeks to months.
