Importing an electric vehicle from China to Chile involves a clear sequence of steps. This guide walks you through each stage, from your first inquiry to after-sales support, with a focus on duties, taxes, and logistics. We keep it practical and transparent, so you can budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Step 1: Inquiry
Everything starts with a simple message. Send us the model you're interested in, your destination country (Chile), your preferred port, and the quantity. You can reach us via WhatsApp at +8615556920288 or through the form on our website. We need these details to give you an accurate quote. For Chile, common ports include San Antonio and Valparaíso. If you're unsure which port is best, we can advise based on your final destination. We'll also ask about your timeline and any specific requirements, such as left-hand drive (all our vehicles are LHD) or particular trim levels. This initial step is quick and helps us tailor the next stages to your needs. Expect a response within 24 hours.
Step 2: CIF Quote
Within 24 hours, we provide a full landed-cost quote. This includes the FOB price (Free On Board at the Chinese port), ocean freight, marine insurance, import duty, and clearance fees. For Chile, the key components are:
- Import Duty (Ad Valorem): 6% of the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, Freight).
- Value Added Tax (IVA): 19% on the CIF value plus duty.
- Luxury Tax: If the vehicle's FOB value exceeds a threshold (approximately USD 22,000), an additional tax applies. For values up to USD 30,000, the rate is 15%; above that, it's 20%.
- Customs Brokerage and Port Fees: Varies by port and broker, but typically USD 300–600.
We'll break down each cost so you see exactly what you're paying. Remember, FOB is the factory price at the Chinese port; CIF adds freight and insurance to your destination port. Our quote will be in USD, as most international transactions are conducted in this currency. Prices are indicative for 2026 and confirmed at the time of shipment.
Step 3: Deposit and Order Confirmation
Once you're satisfied with the quote, we confirm your order with a deposit. This locks in the stock and initiates the export documentation process. Typical payment terms are a deposit to confirm and balance before shipment or against documents. We'll provide a proforma invoice detailing the agreed terms. At this stage, we also prepare the necessary export documents, including the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificate of origin. These documents are crucial for Chilean customs clearance. We handle the paperwork so you don't have to.
Step 4: Production and Preparation
If you're ordering new vehicles, production typically takes 2–4 weeks depending on the model and quantity. For used EVs, we inspect and prepare the vehicle for export. All vehicles are left-hand drive, as required in Chile. We ensure they meet Chilean standards, including homologation requirements. Homologation is the process of certifying that a vehicle meets the country's safety and environmental regulations. While we don't handle homologation directly, we provide the necessary documentation to facilitate it. We'll keep you updated on the progress.
Step 5: Quality Control (QC)
Before shipping, we conduct a thorough quality control inspection. This includes checking the vehicle's condition, battery health, and functionality. We provide a QC report with photos and videos. For new vehicles, this is a standard pre-delivery inspection. For used EVs, we ensure they meet our quality standards. This step is crucial to avoid any issues upon arrival. We also verify that all documents are in order. If any discrepancies are found, we address them immediately. Our goal is to ensure you receive a vehicle that matches your expectations.
Step 6: Shipping
We ship via RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) or container, depending on your preference and the number of vehicles. RoRo is often more cost-effective for single vehicles, while container shipping is better for multiple units or if you want to include spare parts. The transit time from China to Chile ranges from 35 to 50 days, depending on the port and route. We provide you with the bill of lading and other shipping documents as soon as they are available. You can track the vessel's progress online. We also coordinate with your customs broker in Chile to ensure a smooth clearance process. Our team is available to answer any questions during transit.
Step 7: After-Sales Support
After the vehicle arrives and clears customs, our support doesn't end. We assist with any post-sale inquiries, including warranty claims if applicable. For used EVs, we offer a limited warranty on major components. We also provide guidance on local registration and insurance. If you need spare parts, we can source them and ship them to you. Our goal is to build long-term relationships with our customers. We're just a WhatsApp message away.
Understanding Chilean Import Duties and Taxes
To recap, the main costs when importing an EV to Chile are:
- Import Duty: 6% of CIF value.
- IVA: 19% on (CIF + duty).
- Luxury Tax: 15% or 20% on FOB value if above threshold.
- Customs Brokerage: USD 300–600.
Additionally, there may be a small customs processing fee. It's important to note that these rates are subject to change, so always confirm with your customs broker. We provide a detailed breakdown in our CIF quote so you can see the exact landed cost. This transparency helps you make informed decisions.
Why Choose China EV Export?
We specialize in exporting Chinese EVs to left-hand-drive markets, including Chile. Our team handles the entire process, from inquiry to after-sales. We offer competitive pricing, reliable shipping, and full export documentation. With a 24-hour quote turnaround and WhatsApp-first communication, we make importing straightforward. Whether you're an importer, dealer, or individual buyer, we're here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between FOB and CIF? A: FOB (Free On Board) is the price of the vehicle at the Chinese port, before shipping. CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) includes the cost of the vehicle, insurance, and freight to your destination port.
Q: How long does shipping take? A: Typically 35–50 days from China to Chile, depending on the port and shipping method.
Q: Do you handle homologation? A: We provide the necessary documents for homologation, but the process is handled by your local representative or customs broker.
Q: Can I import a used EV? A: Yes, we export both new and used EVs. Used EVs undergo a thorough inspection and come with a QC report.
Q: What payment methods do you accept? A: We accept bank transfers (T/T). Terms are typically a deposit to confirm and balance before shipment or against documents.
Next Steps
Ready to import your EV to Chile? Send us a message on WhatsApp at +8615556920288 with the model, port, and quantity. We'll get back to you within 24 hours with a full CIF quote. Let's get your EV on the road.