A pre-delivery inspection (PDI) is a structured, multi-point check performed before a used vehicle leaves the exporter's yard. For overseas importers, the PDI report is the first verifiable document in the supply chain—it establishes condition, flags compliance gaps, and prevents costly surprises at destination. This walkthrough outlines the typical PDI timeline for a used-car export from China, from inquiry through after-sales support.
Inquiry
When a dealer or fleet buyer submits an inquiry, GoldenLaneAuto asks for the destination market, model preference, and any regulatory constraints. For example, Saudi Arabia limits used passenger cars to within five model years for general import and requires SASO type approval plus an Arabic VIN plate. Kenya accepts vehicles up to eight years from first registration and mandates KEBS KS 1515 with Pre-export Verification of Conformity. The inquiry stage determines which PDI checklist applies. We also confirm drive side: LHD for the UAE and Saudi Arabia, RHD for Kenya. At this point, no vehicle is reserved; the goal is to define the target specification and the compliance regime. An initial response, including indicative availability for models such as Toyota Land Cruiser Prado or BMW X5, is typically sent within one business day.
Quote
The quote stage converts the inquiry into a costed offer. Pricing depends on Incoterms 2020 terms—FOB Tianjin/Shanghai, CIF destination port, CFR destination port, or EXW dealer yard. Payment methods include T/T, 30% deposit plus 70% before shipment, or L/C at sight for established dealers. The quote also lists required export documentation: commercial invoice, packing list, B/L, China customs export declaration, COO (CCPIT), and destination-specific certificates such as SONCAP, PVoC, or SASO. For Nigeria, for instance, SONCAP is mandatory. The quote does not yet include PDI results because no specific unit has been selected. However, it may note that a PDI will be performed prior to shipment and that the report will be shared for approval. Quotes are valid for a limited period due to fluctuating freight rates.
Sample
In used-car exports, a physical sample is rarely practical. Instead, the "sample" stage is a vehicle selection and verification step. GoldenLaneAuto sources from its network and provides a preliminary condition report, including photos, mileage, and visible defects. For markets requiring conformity, we verify eligibility. For example, a 2020 Toyota Camry may qualify for Kenya if first registered within eight years, but a 2015 unit would not. For the UAE, GSO standards (GSO 42, GSO 1416) apply, and NEV imports must meet GSO EV standards. At this stage, we also check for open recalls or outstanding manufacturer campaigns. The buyer reviews the preliminary report and either approves the unit for full PDI or requests an alternative. This step prevents wasted inspection fees on non-compliant vehicles.
Production
Once a unit is approved, it enters the production preparation phase. This is not manufacturing but reconditioning and documentation. Depending on the buyer's requirements, we may perform minor mechanical repairs, replace consumables, and clean the vehicle. We also prepare the export documentation package. For Russia, the vehicle must meet EAEU TR CU 018/2011; as of the 2025 amendment, additional requirements for emergency call systems may apply. The production stage also includes securing the vehicle in the yard and assigning a unique internal reference. No fabricated case numbers are used; each unit is tracked by VIN. The buyer receives a timeline for PDI completion and estimated loading date.
QC
The quality control stage is the core PDI. A multi-point inspection covers engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, bodywork, and interior. We check fluid levels, battery health, tyre tread depth, and error codes via OBD scan. For electric vehicles such as Xpeng P7 or G6, we also verify battery state of health and charging functionality. The PDI report includes photos and video where needed. If the vehicle fails any critical point, we either rectify the issue or offer an alternative unit. The report is shared with the buyer for approval before shipment. This step is especially important for markets like South Africa, where NRCS pre-shipment regimes may require additional conformity checks. The PDI does not replace destination inspection but reduces the risk of rejection.
Shipping
After PDI approval, the vehicle is booked for shipping. GoldenLaneAuto uses major car-carrier lines on China-Russia, China-MEA, and China-West Africa lanes, including Wallenius Wilhelmsen, Höegh Autoliners, NYK, Grimaldi, and COSCO. Loading ports are Tianjin (TXG), Shanghai (SHA), and Guangzhou (CAN). Transit times vary: Tianjin to Jebel Ali is 20-28 days RoRo or 25-35 days container; Shanghai to Lagos is 35-50 days; Tianjin to St. Petersburg/Novorossiysk is 45-60 days via container only, as RoRo to Russian Black Sea ports has been intermittently constrained since 2022. We provide the B/L and all export documents. The buyer is responsible for import clearance and destination charges.
After-sales
After arrival, GoldenLaneAuto provides support for any documentation queries. We do not offer a warranty on used vehicles, but we can assist with parts sourcing or technical information if needed. The PDI report serves as a baseline for condition at loading. Any damage occurring during transit should be claimed through the shipping line's insurance. For repeat buyers, we maintain a record of past PDI reports to streamline future orders. Feedback on the PDI process helps us refine checklists for specific markets, such as adding Arabic VIN plate verification for Saudi Arabia or RHD-specific checks for Kenya. The goal is a predictable, documented export process that minimizes disputes and returns.
For more details on our export process, see the shipping service page.