With the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) and the global push toward sustainability, China has become a leading exporter of new energy vehicles (NEVs). Among the most notable Chinese brands is BYD, which has earned international acclaim for its range of high-quality, affordable electric cars. If you are considering importing a BYD vehicle, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process.
Step 1: Choose Your Model and Price
The first step in importing a BYD vehicle is to browse their official website to select the model you want. For instance, let’s look at the BYD Song Plus model. You can visit BYD’s official website to view the car options, specifications, and prices in Chinese Yuan (RMB). Here’s the link to get started: BYD Song Plus on BYD Official Website Once you visit the website, you can explore the different models available and their prices. Since you are purchasing from outside China, you won’t be able to buy the car directly from BYD’s website. Instead, you will need to work with an automobile export agency like Morefar Global Sourcing, which handles the export documentation and procedures.
Step 2: Contact an Export Agent
Once you have chosen the model you want to buy, the next step is to contact an export agent to assist with the procurement process. Morefar Global Sourcing specializes in handling all the paperwork and logistics involved in exporting cars from China. How can you get a better price? The price on the BYD website reflects the retail price within China, but as an international buyer, you will have to pay through an agent. To get the best deal, ensure you inquire about all possible discounts and offers that might apply based on the number of cars you intend to buy. For example, purchasing multiple units could potentially qualify you for a price reduction.
Step 3: Understand the Fees and Costs
When purchasing a brand-new BYD vehicle from China, it’s important to be aware of all the costs involved. You will not be able to buy directly from the factory, as BYD works with a network of authorized dealers globally. In many countries, BYD may not have a direct dealer, making it essential to use an export agent. Here are some of the typical fees and costs involved in the process:
- Car Guide Price: This is the official retail price of the vehicle in China.
- Factory Discount: Discount offered by the manufacturer for bulk or direct orders.
- Purchase Tax in China: Taxes applicable when purchasing the car in China.
- Compulsory Traffic Insurance in China: Required by law in China for all vehicles.
- China Vehicle Registration: The cost to register the vehicle with China’s vehicle administration and complete ownership transfer procedures.
- Export License: The cost for obtaining the necessary export license.
- Tax Refund: Depending on your country, you may qualify for a refund of some taxes when the car is exported.
- Local Car Delivery Fee: Charges for delivering the car to the designated export location in China.
- MSDS, UN38.3, Shipping Transport Certificates: Fees for obtaining necessary shipping certificates and hazardous materials handling due to the car’s lithium-ion battery.
- Agent Handling Fee: Fees paid to the export agent for processing the entire transaction.
Step 4: Make Your Initial Payment and Wait for Production
To initiate the purchase, you’ll need to pay a deposit, which is typically around 2,000 RMB for standard models or 5,000 RMB for higher-end versions. Afterward, the production of the vehicle takes around 15-30 days, depending on the availability of the specific model you have selected. Some versions might be available immediately if there is stock in the local dealership. Once the vehicle is ready, it will be delivered to a local BYD dealership for final inspection. Morefar Global China BYD vehicle sourcing agent to check the vehicle, take pictures, and ensure that it meets all your specifications. 
Step 5: Final Payment and Vehicle Handover
After the inspection, you will make the final payment for the vehicle. Once the payment is complete, the car will be registered, and the necessary paperwork will be processed.
Step 6: Vehicle Exportation Process
It’s important to note that in China, new BYD cars can only be exported through official channels. As a result, the car will be registered in China’s vehicle database as a “used” vehicle, even though it is brand new. This is a standard practice for cars being exported to other countries.
Step 7: Customs, Taxes, and Export Licensing
Once all the paperwork is complete, the car will go through customs, and taxes will be paid. You will also need to obtain an export license, and a Value Added Tax (VAT) invoice will be issued. In some cases, this VAT can be refunded as part of the export process.
Step 8: Container Booking and Shipping
Because electric vehicle batteries are considered hazardous materials, special care must be taken when shipping the vehicle. The car will need to be shipped in a Dangerous Goods (DG) container. Securing a DG container can be difficult, as it requires additional documentation such as:
- MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
- UN38.3 Report for Lithium Batteries
- Shipping Transportation Certificates
- Customs Declaration and Maritime Registration Number
These documents must be submitted to the shipping company for approval, which typically takes 3-5 business days.
Step 9: Loading and Shipping
Once the DG container is secured, the car will be transported to the designated warehouse at the Nansha Port for loading. Customs and maritime officials will oversee the loading process to ensure everything is in compliance with safety regulations. How is the car secured in the container? The vehicle is carefully fixed in place with wooden blocks to prevent any movement during transit. Additionally, the car’s battery must be physically disconnected before loading, as part of safety measures for shipping.
Step 10: Importation and Delivery
Upon arrival at your destination port, you will need to arrange for customs clearance and final delivery of the vehicle. You will work with a local clearing agent to ensure all necessary documents are in place for importation. Once the car clears customs, it will be delivered to your location, and you’ll have your brand-new BYD electric vehicle ready for use.
Conclusion
Importing a new energy vehicle from China, particularly a BYD car, involves a series of detailed steps, including selecting the vehicle, working with an export agent, managing customs and taxes, and ensuring the car is shipped safely. With the assistance of China BYD vehicle sourcing agent, the process becomes much smoother, ensuring that you can enjoy your new vehicle with minimal hassle. Stay tuned for more insights on how to control your BYD car remotely via app and how to change the language settings on your vehicle’s interface.