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.
As an inland country sandwiched between France and Spain, Andorra enforces very strict, albeit simplified, regulations for used vehicles, particularly those imported from outside the European Union. It is also imperative for traders who wish to import cars from China to Andorra to be aware not only of the export clearance process in China but also of the EU-based standards in Andorra for vehicles and documentation. Related article: Full Instructions Importing A Car From China to Andorra with or without Duty. Below is a simple step-by-step process for importing used cars from China to Andorra, along with the required documents, customs rules, and regulations.
Step 1: Document Preparation Before Shipment
Proper documentation is the foundation of a smooth export and import process. Importers must ensure that the following files are complete, accurate, and aligned with EU and Andorran requirements.
Core Commercial Documents:
Sales Contract, Invoice, and Packing List: The contract must specify the vehicle model, VIN, agreed price, and delivery terms. The invoice should mention the car’s condition, mileage, and year of manufacture.
Bill of Lading (B/L): For sea shipment, preferably via roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) service, which is more cost-effective than containerized shipping.
Customs Declaration Authorization: Required if working with a licensed Chinese customs broker.
Documents Specific to Used Vehicles:
Vehicle Inspection Report: Issued by a third-party agency in China, including emission test results, structural integrity, and accident-free status.
De-registration Certificate: Confirms that the vehicle has been removed from China’s domestic registration system.
Export License: Issued by the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) or authorized local agency.
Andorra-Specific Requirements:
Certificate of Origin (COO): Typically issued by CCPIT or an approved Chinese chamber, confirming the vehicle was manufactured in China.
EU Compliance Documentation: Vehicles must conform to Euro NCAP safety standards or provide equivalent EU technical compliance records. This is crucial for registration and insurance eligibility in Andorra.
Step 2: Export Declaration & Inspection in China
Once the vehicle and documents are prepared, exporters must initiate the official customs declaration through China’s National Single Window platform.
Key Procedures:
Electronic Customs Declaration: Submit via China International Trade Single Window. Ensure accurate input of VIN, engine number, year, and declared value.
Customs Inspection (if selected): Occurs at main export ports such as Shanghai, Tianjin, or Guangzhou. Inspections may include:
VIN verification
Emissions conformity check
Verification that no modifications (especially engine swaps) have been made
Step 3: Pay Port Fees & Obtain Clearance
China does not levy export duties on used fuel vehicles, but standard port fees and terminal handling charges apply.
Expected Charges:
Port Service Charges: Typically around CNY ¥200–350 per vehicle
Additional Logistics Fees: May include warehousing, weighing, or document processing fees if applicable
Once inspection and fees are complete, customs will issue the Customs Release Order, which allows the vehicle to be loaded onto the vessel.
Step 4: Shipping & Transit to Andorra
Most used vehicles destined for Andorra are shipped to major EU seaports (e.g., Barcelona or Marseille), followed by overland transit into Andorra.
Key Notes:
Transit Document (T1 or T2): Required for overland delivery within the EU before final clearance in Andorra.
Insurance: Full-coverage marine insurance is recommended to protect against damage or loss during sea transit.
Step 5: Customs Clearance in Andorra
Although not an EU member, Andorra’s customs system mirrors EU practices and requires strict compliance for vehicle imports.
Customs Process:
Submission of DUT (Import Declaration Form): Must be filed upon vehicle arrival, along with:
Certificate of Origin
EU compliance documents
Invoice and shipping documents
Import VAT (IGI): Andorra levies an IGI (Impost General Indirecte) at a standard rate of 4.5%, calculated based on CIF value.
Once duties are paid and documentation verified, the vehicle can be released for local registration.
Final Word: Risk Mitigation & Practical Tips
Importing used vehicles from China to Andorra offers a profitable niche—but also presents documentation and compliance risks. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:
VIN Format Compliance: Ensure the vehicle uses a 17-digit VIN that meets GB16735 / ISO 3779 standards. Vehicles with invalid VIN formats may be refused at entry.
Battery Regulations for EVs: If shipping electric or hybrid vehicles, ensure MSDS and UN38.3 reports are provided. Batteries should have 20%–50% state of charge to comply with shipping and safety standards.
Time Management: Submit China customs declaration at least 24 hours before shipment. Late submissions can incur demurrage charges of CNY ¥500+ per day.
Plan for Compliance Upgrades: Vehicles lacking EU safety or emissions documents may require retrofitting or certification upon arrival—raising costs and delaying registration.
Auto From China offers comprehensive guidance to export second-hand Vehicles to Andorra, along with expert advice from purchase inspection to customs clearance and shipping. Get in touch for fully compliant vehicle sourcing and export-ready for your market.
