Search and selection of cars in China for import to Russia

China has become one of the main sources of cars for the Russian market. In addition to Chinese brands, it produces cars of European, Japanese, Korean and American companies. With a competent approach, you can significantly save, but it is important to take into account many nuances. In this article, we will analyze the process of searching and selecting cars in China, analyze current prices, customs duties, features of checking cars and other key points.

Why do you buy a car in China? 

After 2022, Russia faced a shortage of cars as European, American, Japanese and Korean automakers cut or stopped deliveries. As a result:

• Imports of cars to Russia from China in 2023 increased by 450% (data FCS).
• Chinese cars in 2024 account for more than 60% of sales of new cars in Russia.
• In 2023, more than 600,000 cars were imported from China to Russia, including electric cars.
• The main demand is for cars worth from 1.5 to 4 million rubles.

China offers not only favorable prices, but also a wide range of models that can not be bought in Russian car dealerships.

What cars can I bring from China? 

1. Chinese brands

Chinese automakers are actively entering the Russian market, offering cars with a modern design and a high level of equipment.

TOP-5 popular Chinese brands in Russia (by sales in 2023):
Chery. 144,000 vehicles (market leader)
Haval 122,000 vehicles
Geely. 104,000 vehicles
Omoda 49,000 vehicles
Exeeded 27,000 vehicles

Other popular Chinese brands are BYD, Zeekr, Tank, Hongqi, JAC, Dongfeng, Foton, Voyah.

2. European and American cars manufactured in China

Many international companies have factories in China. This allows you to buy a premium car with savings of up to 30-40% compared to European prices.

Examples of popular models:
BMW iX3 (produced in China) – from 3.5 million rubles
Mercedes-Benz E-Class L (extended version) – from 4 million rubles
Tesla Model 3 / Model Y from 2.8 million rubles
Volkswagen ID. 4. (electric car) - from 2.5 million rubles
Cadillac CT6 (business sedan) – from 3.2 million rubles

3. Japanese and Korean cars

The Chinese market offers a large selection of Japanese and Korean cars, often at a lower price than in Japan or Korea.

Examples:
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2024 from 5.8 million rubles
Honda Inspire (similar to Accord) from 2.7 million rubles
Hyundai Palisade from 3.9 million rubles
Kia EV6 (electric vehicle) from 3 million rubles

Where to look for cars in China? 

1. Official dealers

If you need a new car, it is better to buy from an official dealer. This guarantees the originality of the car, the official guarantee and the absence of hidden problems.

You can find an official dealer through the websites of manufacturers or platforms:

• Autohome ()) The largest website with car catalogs
• PCauto ()) Another popular resource
• Bitauto ()) Information about prices and dealers

2. Auto auctions for used cars

To buy used cars, you can use Chinese auction sites:
Manheim China One of the largest auto auctions
Uxin ()) A popular platform for the sale of used cars
Guazi ()) Large selection of used cars

Average prices for used cars 3-5 years:

• Toyota Camry 2.5 - 1.8-2.2 million rubles
• BMW X5 – 3.5-4.5 million rubles
• Mercedes-Benz GLC – 3-4 million rubles

3. Marketplaces and private sellers

Sites where you can find cars:
Alibaba ()) New and used vehicles from suppliers
58.com (58)) Advertisements of private sellers
Autohome and Bitauto - offers from dealers

Checking the car before buying

Documents and legal clarity

• Verification of the VIN number and compliance with documents
• Lack of bail and arrest
• History of road accident and mileage (query through Chinese databases)

Technical status

• Engine and gearbox inspection
• Diagnostics of electronic systems
• Assessment of the condition of the LCP and the body (possible hidden damage)

Environmental standards

• To import into Russia, the car must correspond to Euro-5 and above.
• Check the availability of certification (some models do not pass the SBKTS).

Delivery and customs clearance of cars from China to Russia 

1. Delivery methods

Carrier - 7-14 days, from 150 000 rubles
Railway container - 14-20 days, from 100,000 rubles
Sea (via Vladivostok) - 20-40 days, from 80 000 rubles

2. Customs fees and duties

Customs duty - from 48% of the cost of cars
Recycling fee – 3 400 – 5 200 rubles (for individuals)
SBKTS - from 50 000 rubles
Registration in the traffic police – 2 850 rubles

Example of calculation of import of BMW X3 (2021, 2.0 gasoline) from China
Price of the car: 3 000 000 rubles
Customs duty (48%): 1,440,000 rubles
Recycling fee: 5 200 rubles
Delivery: 150,000 rubles
Certification: 50,000 rubles
Registration: 2,850 rubles
Total: ~4,648,050 rubles

Conclusions: Should I import a car from China?

• Favorable for premium cars and models that are not available in Russia
• You can save 20-40% on some brands
• Large selection of electric and hybrid machines

Requires thorough verification of documents
High customs duties

Choose reliable suppliers and check every detail so that the purchase is profitable and safe!