Plan the next buying step
Use this earlier article as background. Confirm current requirements with the destination authority or agent for the exact product, importer and route. The country EV import-guide directory is a starting point for passenger-EV enquiries; parts, machinery and other vehicle categories require their own assessment.
Keep the shipment scope explicit with the customs clearance and vehicle approval checklist. Have the destination assess the actual vehicle specification and approval route separately from customs release before scheduling road use.
Request a destination-specific sourcing and shipping quotation with the product identity, quantity and delivery scope.
India is among the biggest and fastest growing auto markets in the world, and offers great potential – along with some challenging regulatory hurdles – for the companies that seek to export vehicles to the South Asian nation. Although India’s import taxes are high, it’s pulling in more NEVs and premium models as demand grows, policy incentives rise and local EV manufacturing capacity is limited.
This article is going to be a detailed guide on how to export cars from China to India – We will include all necessary documents, customs regulations, taxes that you need to know, as well as some practical advice and also we will identify some common pitfalls that you have to take care of.
1. Pre-Shipment Preparation in China
A. Regulatory Requirements
Before shipping, exporters must ensure that the vehicle complies with India’s automotive import standards, including:
Emission compliance: Vehicles must meet at least Bharat Stage VI (BS6) emission standards (equivalent to Euro VI).
RHD configuration: India is a right-hand drive country. Only RHD vehicles are permitted unless importing for homologation/testing.
B. Required Export Documents
All documents must be in English, duly signed and stamped:
Commercial Invoice – Include vehicle brand, model, engine number, VIN, value (FOB or CIF), and country of origin.
Packing List – Detailing vehicle dimensions, container type, and gross/net weight.
Bill of Lading (B/L) – Must specify consignee details matching the Indian importer.
Certificate of Origin (COO) – Issued by CCPIT; critical for claiming preferential duty (if applicable).
ISO Certification – India mandates that imported vehicles meet international standards such as ISO 9001 or equivalent.
Vehicle Technical Data Sheet – Describing engine displacement, fuel type, dimensions, emission class, and homologation details.
Note: Any mismatch between the documents and physical inspection can result in heavy fines or shipment delays.
2. Indian Import Customs Declaration
A. Electronic Filing & IGM Submission
The Import General Manifest (IGM) must be filed by the shipping line at least 72 hours before vessel arrival in India.
The IGM serves as the base document for initiating customs clearance in India.
B. Customs Clearance & Vehicle Inspection
Entry Filing – Submit electronic declaration via ICEGATE (Indian Customs’ EDI platform), including all supporting documents.
Vehicle Inspection – Customs may conduct a physical inspection, verifying:
VIN and engine number
RHD compliance
Safety features and emission standards
Bonded Deposits – For high-value shipments, customs may require a customs bond or security deposit based on vehicle CIF value.
💡 Pro tip: Partnering with a licensed Indian clearing agent can reduce clearance time by up to 50%.
3. Taxes and Duties in India
India has one of the highest vehicle import tax structures in the world, especially for fuel-powered vehicles. Here’s a breakdown:
| Vehicle Category | Basic Customs Duty | GST | Cess / Social Welfare Surcharge | Total Duty Range |
| ICE < 1500cc | 60% | 28% | 10% | 100%–110%+ |
| ICE > 1500cc | 100% | 28% | 10% | 140%–150%+ |
| EVs | 15% | 5%–12% | Varies by state | 20%–30% (lower) |
Tip: Electric vehicles benefit from lower duties and state-specific incentives. Exporters may consider models such as the AION Y Plus, BYD e6, or MG4 EV for competitive pricing in India.
4. Delivery and Inland Transportation
After customs clearance is complete:
Port Charges: Pay handling charges, container detainment fees (THC), and any demurrage.
Local Transportation: Arrange truck transport to the dealer, warehouse, or customer. Indian road infrastructure varies—choose a reliable logistics provider with experience in auto delivery.
Vehicle Registration: The importer or end-user must register the car with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). A homologation report or testing certificate may be required for models not previously sold in India.
5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
| Risk Area | Mistake | Solution |
| Documentation | Incomplete or mismatched VIN/engine number | Triple-check all documents and physical vehicle details |
| Import Duties | Underestimating final tax burden | Use accurate CIF values and factor in GST/cess |
| Compliance | Sending LHD models to India | Only RHD vehicles are permitted |
| Clearance Delays | Submitting documents late or with errors | Work with a professional customs agent |
| Logistics | Uninsured shipping or poor container protection | Always purchase marine insurance and follow IMDG packing rules (for EVs) |
Auto From China: Your Professional Export Partner for India
We provide end-to-end vehicle export services for the Indian market, including:
Documentation handling (Invoice, Form COO, VOC, ISO compliance)
Exporting NEVs and hybrids with low import duty eligibility
Modification support (e.g., GBT to CCS2 for charging compatibility)
Ro-Ro and FCL shipping to Indian ports such as Nhava Sheva, Chennai, and Kolkata
Sourcing of OEM vehicle parts and charging solutions
Ready to Enter the Indian Market?
Auto From China provides end-to-end compliant, trusted and economical export solutions to dealers, fleet owners and independent importers throughout India. We’ll offer the support of our experienced consultants in selecting the appropriate models, getting through the maze of customs, or landing a smooth port delivery.
Get in touch today for a personalized quotation and compliance consultation.
👉 Visit www.auto-from-china.com or contact our export team directly for more information.
