Import in a controlled sequence from identification to clearance
To import car parts from China, first confirm every part by VIN or OEM number, then obtain a complete quotation, approve samples where needed, place the order under clear payment and delivery terms, inspect production, choose freight from actual cargo data and prepare destination documents before shipment. The reliable workflow is sequential: do not negotiate an ambiguous list or book transport before packaging and readiness are known.
Start with the Chinese Vehicle Parts Sourcing workflow if the request mixes vehicle names, workshop descriptions and old numbers. Clean identification early; a low price for the wrong application remains a loss after customs clearance.
Step 1: confirm the vehicle and every SKU
Build one row per part. Include the buyer's reference, part name, OEM number, VIN, market model, year, engine or powertrain, installed position, requested quantity and photos. Use EPC diagrams when the number is unknown. Mark each line confirmed, conditional or unresolved.
Check LH and RH, production-date changes, engine and transmission options, electrical connectors and superseded numbers. The supplier should return the interpreted reference beside the original request. Remove unresolved lines from the purchase order until better VIN, EPC, dimension or sample evidence is available.
For stock orders, rank lines by actual sales, service demand and customer back orders. Do not import every catalogue item merely to appear complete. PartSail states an MOQ negotiable from 100–200 sets per SKU and supports mixed containers, which can help combine commercially useful lines.
Step 2: compare quotations on the same trade basis
Request a written quotation showing supplier entity, currency, validity, product reference, unit basis, quantity, MOQ, unit price, packaging, lead time, payment terms and Incoterm with a named place. An Incoterm allocates specified responsibilities and costs; it does not make an incomplete quotation complete.
Ask what is included in the price and what remains for the buyer or forwarder. Compare offers on the same Incoterm and route. Separate product value, origin handling, international freight, insurance where applicable, destination charges, clearance and inland delivery. Use the Bulk RFQ route for a structured multi-SKU request.
Never assume that “unit” means the same thing across quotes. It can mean piece, pair, set, kit or carton. Confirm arithmetic and any separate sample, tooling, labeling or custom-packaging charge.
Step 3: approve samples, order and production terms
Use a paid sample for new fitment, critical dimensions, connectors, visible finish, markings or packaging. PartSail states that paid sample cost can be refundable against bulk orders; record the exact credit condition. Label and photograph the approved sample so inspection can compare production against it.
Before payment, verify the contracting company and beneficiary. Confirm any bank-detail change through a known channel. The purchase order should repeat the approved SKU list, quantities, price basis, packaging, markings, artwork, evidence requirements, inspection criteria and handling of discrepancies.
PartSail's stated production lead time is 15–35 days depending on quantity and customization. Agree what starts that period, such as deposit receipt, final SKU confirmation, sample approval or artwork approval. Track production completion and inspection as separate milestones.
Step 4: pack, inspect and choose transport
PartSail offers neutral, custom-brand, color-box and bulk export packaging. Select the format by product protection, market need and freight plan. Confirm units per carton, carton dimensions, gross and net weight, labels and outer marks before booking.
Inspect SKU, quantity, part number, markings, visible workmanship, critical dimensions and packaging. Reconcile the final packing list with the order. For regulated products, match the exact SKU to relevant evidence; listed certifications include IATF 16949:2016, ECE R90, ISO 9001:2015 and CE, but applicability must be checked by product and destination.
Choose air for confirmed urgent shortages when cargo is accepted and the commercial benefit justifies it. Sea freight generally suits planned heavy or bulky replenishment. Mixed-container or consolidated sea freight can spread logistics across SKUs. Batteries and other dangerous goods require separate classification, documents and carrier acceptance.
Step 5: prepare clearance documents before dispatch
The normal document set includes a commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading or air waybill. A certificate of origin may also be required by the destination or trade arrangement. Product descriptions, quantities, weights, consignee data and values should remain consistent across documents.
Duties and taxes vary by country, product and HS classification. Do not rely on a universal tax rate from a supplier or old shipment. Ask the local customs broker or importer to confirm the current HS code treatment, duties, taxes, permits, conformity documents, labeling and origin requirements before cargo leaves China.
A completed import is a documented chain: verified part, accepted quote, controlled payment, approved production, suitable packaging, inspected cargo, booked transport and broker-reviewed documents. Keeping that chain intact is more valuable than rushing any single step.