How to Buy Parallel Imported Cars?
3 Answers
Parallel imported cars do not come with the necessary documents and invoices. If possible, it is advisable to purchase a vehicle with complete documentation and invoices issued on the same day. For non-professionals, completing all procedures at once is the most convenient option. If the documents and invoices cannot be obtained on the same day, make sure to include the delivery time of these documents and invoices in the contract to avoid any issues. When picking up the car at the port, always go through a reputable company and avoid being lured by individuals offering low prices. Below is some relevant information about parallel imports: 1. The full name of parallel imported cars is parallel trade imported vehicles, also known as parallel trade cars. These are vehicles purchased by traders from overseas markets and introduced into the Chinese market for sale without authorization from the brand manufacturer. 2. Parallel imported cars are not authorized by the manufacturer. Since traders bring these cars into the Chinese market on their own, parallel imported cars cannot enjoy the manufacturer's warranty, after-sales service, maintenance, and other rights after entering China.
I've tried buying parallel imported cars a few times before, and it's quite interesting. The process mainly involves three steps: channel selection, vehicle inspection, and paperwork. First, browse online platforms or dealerships, such as popular e-commerce sites or local parallel import stores, and choose those with good reviews—don't go for cheap options from small workshops. When picking a car, inspect it in person or ask a car-savvy friend or inspector to check the vehicle's condition, focusing on mileage, accident history, and whether the configuration is complete. You can negotiate the price; parallel imports usually save you around 20%, but remember to clarify whether shipping costs and tariffs are included. Finally, there's the import process, which requires an agent to handle customs clearance, environmental certification, and licensing. Some cities have special regulations, so check in advance. The whole process requires patience—it took me about a month from placing the order to picking up the car, but getting a foreign model is super satisfying. Always set aside some extra budget for potential modifications or minor repairs later. Overall, it saves money, but don’t be careless.
I prefer to discuss buying parallel imported cars from a safety perspective, as in my personal experience, the risks are not small. The lack of official warranty is my biggest concern—once something goes wrong, repairs can be troublesome and expensive. That’s why I always remind myself to first find a reliable seller platform, such as a larger dealership website, and verify the vehicle’s import legality. When purchasing, carefully inspect the vehicle report, ensuring no missed checks like the chassis or electrical tests. Even if the price is cheap, always consider long-term costs. Don’t forget about registration issues—local emission standards might block approval, as I’ve seen a friend’s car fail to get on the road. I recommend hiring a professional agent to handle paperwork, saving hassle and even helping with insurance. Avoid trying to save money by DIY and end up losing big. In short, spending time on research helps avoid major pitfalls—ensuring you don’t get the short end of the stick is key.
