When you import an electric vehicle into many left-hand-drive markets, you may qualify for a temporary importation regime that allows the car to stay for up to 180 days without paying full customs duty. This can be useful for test fleets, trade shows, or short-term projects. But the clock starts ticking the moment the vehicle lands, and the paperwork must be flawless. At China EV Export, we guide importers through every step. Below is our process walkthrough for the 180-day rule, from initial inquiry to after-sales support. We keep it logistical and calm, so you know exactly what to expect.
Inquiry
You start by telling us what you need. Send the model, destination country, port, and quantity via WhatsApp or our contact form. If you are exploring temporary import, mention that you want to use the 180-day rule. We will ask about your intended use—whether it is for a demonstration, a short-term lease, or a trial. This helps us confirm eligibility. For example, Mexico, Chile, and Kazakhstan have specific temporary import schemes. We will check if your country allows EVs under this regime. You do not need to know all the customs codes; just describe your plan. Our team responds within 24 hours, usually faster on WhatsApp.
Quote
Within 24 hours, we return a full CIF landed-cost quote. CIF means Cost, Insurance, and Freight—it covers the vehicle price, shipping to your port, and marine insurance. For temporary import, the quote will also show estimated duties and taxes, which may be reduced or waived under the 180-day rule. We break down FOB (Free On Board) price, freight, insurance, duty, and clearance. For instance, a BYD Seagull with a starting FOB price of $10,738 would have a different landed cost in Peru versus Colombia. We also note any temporary import fees. This transparency lets you compare the cost of temporary versus permanent import. Our quotes are indicative for 2026; confirm at time of shipment.
Sample
If you need a physical sample before committing, we can arrange a temporary import for a single vehicle. This is common for dealers who want to test market response. We prepare a proforma invoice and a temporary import bond. The bond guarantees that the vehicle will leave before the 180-day deadline or that duties will be paid. We handle the export documents from China, including the commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin. You will need to provide a customs broker at your end. For countries like Israel or Chile, we can recommend brokers. The sample process usually takes 2–4 weeks for shipping, depending on the port.
Production
For temporary import, production is often not required because you are bringing in an existing vehicle. However, if you need a specific configuration or a fleet of vehicles for a trial, we can source them from our network of 320 models. We work with left-hand drive EVs only, as that matches your market. You can choose from brands like BYD, Geely Galaxy, GAC Aion, and many others. We lock stock with a deposit and prepare export documents. The production timeline depends on availability; most models are ready within 1–2 weeks. We keep you updated on the status.
QC
Before shipping, we conduct a quality check. This includes verifying the vehicle's condition, battery health, and that all software and hardware meet export specifications. For temporary import, the vehicle must be in good working order to pass customs inspection. We provide a QC report with photos and any relevant diagnostics. We also ensure the odometer is recorded, as some countries require this for temporary import. Our QC process is thorough but not intrusive. We aim to catch any issues before the vehicle leaves China, saving you time and hassle at the destination port.
Shipping
We ship via RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) or container, depending on your preference and route. RoRo is often more cost-effective for single vehicles, while container shipping offers more protection. We handle all export customs formalities in China. For temporary import, you will need to present the temporary import declaration to your local customs. We provide the full document set: bill of lading, invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and any temporary import permits. The shipping time varies by destination—typically 20–40 days to Latin America, MENA, or CIS. We track the vessel and keep you informed. Once the vehicle arrives, you have 180 days from the date of importation to use it.
After-sales
After the vehicle clears customs, our support continues. We help you monitor the 180-day deadline and remind you when it is time to re-export or convert to permanent import. If you decide to sell the vehicle locally, we can guide you on the necessary procedures. For temporary import, you must ensure the vehicle leaves the country or is formally imported before the deadline to avoid penalties. We also provide spare parts and technical support if needed. Our WhatsApp line is always open. We believe in long-term relationships, not just one-off transactions. Whether you are testing a new model or running a pilot fleet, we are here to help.
Temporary import can be a smart way to enter a new market without full duty upfront. But the 180-day rule requires discipline. Start by contacting China EV Export with your inquiry. We will quote you a CIF landed cost within 24 hours and walk you through the entire process. From inquiry to after-sales, we keep it clear and practical. Reach us on WhatsApp at +8615556920288 or via email at mengluca2026@gmail.com. Let's get your EVs moving.