What happens at each stage?
Each stage ends with a written confirmation or a photo/video update, so you always know where your vehicles are.
FOB or CIF: which terms should you choose?
FOB and CIF are Incoterms rules published by the International Chamber of Commerce. They define who pays for and arranges each part of the journey.
| FOB (Free On Board) | CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who books ocean freight? | You (or your forwarder) | EVtoU |
| Who pays marine insurance? | You | EVtoU, to the destination port |
| Risk passes to buyer | When cars are on board in China | When cars are on board in China |
| Best for | Buyers with their own forwarder and freight rates | Buyers who want one price to their port |
Ro-Ro or container shipping?
Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) vessels carry cars driven on board, like a floating car park. It suits larger orders to ports with regular Ro-Ro services. Containers protect vehicles from weather and handling, suit smaller quantities, and allow mixed models in one box. A 40ft high-cube container typically takes four Levin sedans on a two-level rack — see our container loading guide.
Which export documents will you receive?
Shipping documents typically include the commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading. Other documents — such as a certificate of origin — can be prepared when your country requires them. Tell us your destination and we will confirm the document list before shipment.
What should you prepare on your side?
- An import licence or registered company, if your country requires one for vehicle imports.
- A clearing agent at the destination port.
- Confirmation of local age limits and technical rules for the model year you are buying — see our market import notes.