Two dealers may quote the same model at different prices because their offers cover different parts of the journey. Before comparing totals, make sure the vehicle, delivery point and included services match.
This guide adapts YekAuto’s Chinese quotation article for buyers sourcing vehicles from China. It uses Incoterms® 2020; the quotation and signed contract should identify the agreed rule and named place or port.
Start with the delivery term
EXW: The seller makes the vehicle available at the named place, normally without loading or export clearance. Check that your arrangements can cover the remaining steps.
FOB: The seller delivers on board at the named shipment port. The buyer arranges the main sea carriage; risk transfers when the goods are on board.
CIF: The seller pays freight and arranges insurance to the named destination port. Risk still transfers at shipment, rather than at arrival.
FOB and CIF are sea or inland-waterway rules. For a container handed to a carrier before loading on a vessel, discuss FCA or another suitable rule with the parties handling the shipment. See the ICC’s sea-transport rules and rules for any transport mode.
Ask for a comparable written quote
Give each dealer the same purchasing brief. A useful comparison sheet records:
The exact vehicle: model year, configuration, powertrain, new or pre-owned condition and, where available, the specific vehicle identifier and condition documents.
The order: quantity, currency, quote validity and the assumptions used for any currency conversion.
The named location: identify the actual collection point, shipment port or destination. An abbreviation alone leaves important questions open.
The included work: ask for preparation, local transport, export documents, freight and insurance to be itemised where relevant.
The remaining destination costs: ask your local broker which port charges, import procedures, taxes and onward transport to budget for. Request an explanation of any estimate.
The schedule and changes: confirm availability, the proposed shipment window and how the parties will handle a freight change or delay.
Check insurance separately
Ask for the insurer, coverage, exclusions, insured value and claims documents. CIF’s default cover differs from CIP’s; a quotation saying “insurance included” does not answer those questions. See the ICC’s Incoterms® 2020 guidance.
Use the quote to start a clearer conversation
Compare offers on the same assumptions, then confirm the final terms with the dealer and the relevant logistics, insurance and import professionals. A lower headline price can still leave more work and cost for your team.
Browse vehicles or visit the dealer directory to discuss the model, quantity and destination you have in mind.