How to Source Brand New Cars from China: A Dealer's Guide to Factory-New Vehicle Export
How the new vehicle sourcing channels work, which models are available, FOB pricing expectations, lead times, and the complete order process from Chinese dealer network to your overseas lot
Table of Contents
The narrative around Chinese car exports has historically focused on used vehicles — and for good reason. Used Chinese cars have dominated the export market to Africa and parts of the Middle East for a decade. But the landscape has changed significantly. Brand new Chinese vehicles are now being exported in growing volumes, driven by three forces: Chinese manufacturer ambition to build global brand recognition, market demand in Algeria (3-year age limit) and Gulf countries (buyer preference for new), and the growing realisation among overseas dealers that new Chinese vehicles can compete with used Japanese alternatives on both price and specification.
Sourcing brand new vehicles from China is a different process from sourcing used ready stock. The vehicle does not exist at an exporter’s yard waiting for you — it must be procured through China’s automotive dealer network, which has its own dynamics, lead times, and pricing structures. Understanding how this works is essential for dealers who want to build a new-vehicle supply channel alongside or instead of a used-vehicle operation.
This guide covers the complete picture: how new Chinese vehicles are sourced for export, the different channels available, which models are realistically accessible for overseas dealers, FOB pricing expectations versus used, lead times, the order and payment process, and which markets are best suited to new vehicle supply. It complements our earlier guide on new cars vs used cars from China, which covers the strategic decision between the two approaches.
Key point: Brand new Chinese vehicles for export are sourced through China’s domestic automotive dealer network — not from factory export programmes in most cases. This means lead times are longer than used ready stock (typically 3–8 weeks), prices are close to domestic retail, and availability depends on what the dealer network holds at a given time. Understanding this sourcing structure is the starting point for building a new-vehicle supply channel.
How Brand New Chinese Vehicle Sourcing Works
To understand how to source new Chinese vehicles for export, you need to understand how the Chinese domestic automotive market is structured:
China’s Automotive Dealer Network
In China, vehicle manufacturers sell new cars through an authorised dealer network — similar to the franchise dealer model in Western markets. Each major brand (Changan, BYD, Geely, Jetour, etc.) has a network of branded showrooms across China where consumers buy new vehicles. These dealers purchase inventory from the manufacturer and sell to consumers.
For export purposes, a Chinese car exporter like RichingAuto sources new vehicles from this dealer network — either directly from brand dealers or through the dealer’s end-of-batch or incentive stock. The vehicle is then exported under a standard commercial export process. This is not the same as the manufacturer’s own export programme (which is a separate, more complex channel).
The Three New Vehicle Sourcing Channels
| Channel | Description | Lead Time | Price vs Retail | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dealer network sourcing | Exporter purchases from authorised Chinese dealer on your specification | 3–6 weeks | Close to domestic retail + exporter margin | Specific model/colour/spec requirements |
| Dealer overstock / end-of-batch | Exporter sources from dealers offloading slow-moving or end-of-model-year stock | 1–3 weeks | 5–15% below standard retail | Volume orders; flexible on exact spec |
| Manufacturer export programme | Manufacturer's own export channel for some brands in some markets | 6–12 weeks+ | Manufacturer-set price | Large volumes; official distributor arrangements |
Note: For most overseas dealers importing through RichingAuto, the dealer network sourcing channel is the most practical. Dealer overstock opportunities are excellent when available — these can offer new vehicle pricing 5–15% below standard retail because the Chinese dealer wants to move inventory. We actively monitor Guangzhou dealer networks for these opportunities. For context on the difference between ready stock and custom order (which applies equally to new vehicles), see our guide on ready stock vs custom order.
New Vehicle FOB Pricing: What to Expect
Brand new Chinese vehicle FOB pricing from Nansha Port is structured differently from used vehicle pricing. Instead of the condition-driven variability of used stock, new vehicle pricing is primarily determined by:
- Chinese domestic retail price (MSRP): the starting point is what the vehicle costs in China. Domestic MSRP is publicly available and widely known.
- Dealer margin and export premium: Chinese dealers sell at or near MSRP. The exporter adds their margin for sourcing, export handling, and documentation. Total export FOB is typically 5–15% above Chinese domestic retail.
- Currency and timing: the RMB/USD rate at the time of purchase affects final FOB pricing. Chinese domestic prices in RMB translate to USD at the prevailing rate.
- Model year and stock availability: end-of-model-year stock and dealer overstock can offer meaningful discounts. Current model year at launch can have limited availability and premium pricing.
| Model | China Domestic MSRP (approx.) | Export FOB (Nansha) | Premium over 3yr Used | Key New vs Used Trade-Off |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Changan CS55 Plus | ¥110,000–¥135,000 (~$15k–$19k) | $15,000–$19,000 | +$5,000–$7,000 | Full spec + warranty vs lower capital |
| Changan CS75 Plus (1.5T) | ¥130,000–¥155,000 (~$18k–$21k) | $18,000–$22,000 | +$6,000–$8,000 | Manufacturer warranty opens Gulf segment |
| Jetour T2 | ¥180,000–¥250,000 (~$25k–$35k) | $25,000–$33,000 | +$8,000–$12,000 | Premium 4WD; Gulf + Algeria key markets |
| BYD Atto3 | ¥140,000–¥170,000 (~$19k–$24k) | $20,000–$26,000 | +$5,000–$8,000 | Official warranty + EV for Gulf/SA |
| BYD Seal (RWD LR) | ¥185,000–¥220,000 (~$26k–$31k) | $26,000–$33,000 | +$6,000–$10,000 | Premium EV sedan; Gulf prestige |
| Geely Monjaro | ¥175,000–¥220,000 (~$24k–$31k) | $24,000–$30,000 | +$6,000–$9,000 | CMA+ platform; Gulf premium SUV |
| Tank 300 (2.0T petrol) | ¥220,000–¥280,000 (~$30k–$39k) | $30,000–$38,000 | +$8,000–$14,000 | Premium off-road; Gulf + Algeria |
Note: FOB prices above are indicative for standard-spec, current-year new vehicles from the Guangzhou dealer network. Prices vary by colour, trim level, and current dealer stock levels. RMB/USD exchange rate movements affect pricing. Request a live quote for specific models and specs.
Which Chinese Models Are Readily Available as Brand New for Export?
Not all Chinese models are equally accessible as new vehicles for export. Availability depends on the model’s domestic production volume, the dealer network density in Guangzhou, and current demand vs supply balance in China.
| Model / Brand | New Export Availability | Lead Time (Guangzhou) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Changan CS55 Plus | High — widely available | 1–3 weeks | Changan has extensive Guangzhou dealer network |
| Changan CS75 Plus | High — widely available | 1–3 weeks | Best availability of the CS series |
| Jetour X70 | High — widely available | 1–3 weeks | High domestic sales volume = good stock |
| Jetour T2 | Medium — popular model | 3–6 weeks | High domestic demand; sometimes tight stock |
| BYD Atto3 | High (LHD) / Medium (RHD) | 2–4 wks (LHD); 4–8 wks (RHD) | RHD for SA/Kenya harder to source |
| BYD Seal | Medium — RWD LR most available | 3–5 weeks | AWD Performance: longer lead time |
| Geely Monjaro | Medium | 3–6 weeks | Premium model; adequate stock |
| Tank 300 | Medium — high demand | 4–8 weeks | Very popular domestically; often needs advance order |
| GWM/Haval H6 | High — widely available | 1–3 weeks | One of China's best-selling SUVs |
| Tank 400 (V6) | Lower — premium model | 6–10 weeks | Lower volume production; longer lead |
Design tip: For dealers building a new-vehicle supply channel, the most practical approach is to place orders 6–8 weeks before your target container loading date. This gives the sourcing network time to confirm availability, lock in pricing, and arrange the pre-shipment inspection — while still meeting your import and retail timeline. For Algeria (3-year limit), this longer planning horizon is especially important.
The New Vehicle Order Process: Step by Step
Ordering brand new Chinese vehicles follows a similar overall structure to used vehicle orders — deposit, inspection, balance, shipping — but with several important differences in timing and process:
| Step | Action | Timeframe | New Vehicle Specifics |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Inquiry: specify model, exact spec, colour, quantity, destination | Day 1 | Colour and trim matter more for new — specify clearly |
| 2 | Supplier confirms availability and quotes FOB price | 1–5 days | May take longer than used — dealer network must be checked |
| 3 | Lock in price; receive pro-forma invoice; confirm spec | Day 3–7 | Price confirmed for 7–14 days — act on confirmed stock |
| 4 | Pay 30% deposit | Day 5–10 | Standard T/T payment |
| 5 | Supplier sources vehicle from dealer network | Day 5–25 | Key new vehicle step — sourcing may take 1–4 weeks |
| 6 | Pre-delivery inspection (PDI): photos + video of new vehicle | Day 20–32 | Confirms spec, colour, zero odometer, protective film intact |
| 7 | Pay 70% balance after PDI approval | Day 25–35 | Approve PDI in writing before transferring |
| 8 | Export preparation; container loading at Nansha | Day 28–42 | New vehicles loaded with extra care — foam protection |
| 9 | Vessel transit Nansha → destination | Day 45–75 | Same as used — depends on destination |
| 10 | Customs clearance at destination | Day 70–90 | New vehicle duty basis — full CIF, no depreciation |
| 11 | Vehicle delivery to lot; remove protective elements | Day 75–95 | Pre-delivery check before display |
Key point: The total timeline from order to vehicles on your lot for brand new Chinese vehicles is typically 75–100 days — significantly longer than used ready stock (50–75 days). The extra time is primarily in the sourcing and export preparation stages. Plan your inventory cycle with this longer lead time in mind.
Pre-Delivery Inspection for New Vehicles: What to Request
Even for brand new vehicles, a pre-delivery inspection (PDI) is essential before you pay the balance. Unlike used vehicle inspections that focus on condition and wear, the new vehicle PDI confirms that the vehicle matches your specification exactly and is in factory-perfect condition.
- Odometer confirmation: must show 0km or very low mileage (under 50km for dealer pre-delivery checks only). Anything higher requires explanation.
- VIN plate photo: VIN must match the commercial invoice exactly.
- Spec confirmation: confirm the model code, engine type, transmission type, and trim level match what you ordered. New vehicles in China have multiple trim levels that are not always obvious from exterior appearance.
- Colour confirmation: confirm the colour code matches your order. Lighting in photos can make colours look different — request a clear exterior shot in natural daylight.
- Protective film inspection: factory protective film should be intact on all painted surfaces, bumpers, and trim. Any areas where film has been removed or damaged should be documented.
- Dashboard photo with ignition on: confirms no warning lights active. New vehicles should show clean dash — any warning light on a new vehicle requires investigation before accepting.
- Build date confirmation: for markets with age restrictions (Algeria: 3 years), confirm the build date stamp (usually on the door jamb sticker). This must comply with your destination market’s restriction.
- Short running video: engine start, idle, all windows operating. Confirms basic mechanical function before loading.
Key point: The new vehicle PDI is less about finding defects and more about confirming specification compliance. The most common issue with new Chinese vehicle exports is spec mismatch — the wrong trim level, an incorrect colour, or a different engine variant from what was ordered. A thorough PDI before balance payment catches these issues before the container is loaded. For the full inspection methodology, see our guide on how to inspect a car before export from China.
Which Markets Suit Brand New Chinese Vehicles?
Not every market is equally suited to new Chinese vehicle imports. Here is where new vehicles deliver the strongest commercial case:
| Market | New Vehicle Suitability | Key Reason | Recommended New Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE (Dubai / Abu Dhabi) | Excellent | Low 5% duty; Gulf buyers compare vs latest competitors; warranty adds value | BYD Atto3, BYD Seal, ZEEKR 7X, Jetour T2, Geely Monjaro |
| Saudi Arabia | Excellent | Large market; engine year matters; 7-seat new vehicles in demand | Jetour T2/X90, Changan CS75 2.0T, BYD Seal, Tank 400 |
| Algeria | Essential (regulatory) | 3-year age limit mandates new or near-new sourcing | Changan CS55/CS75, Jetour X70/X90/T2, Haval H6, BYD Atto3 |
| South Africa | Strong | Brand-aware buyers; SABS simpler for current-year models; warranty matters | BYD Atto3 RHD, GWM/Haval H6 RHD, Geely Boyue Pro RHD |
| Nigeria (premium) | Good for premium segment | Lagos premium buyers pay new-vehicle pricing for prestige models | Jetour T2 new, Tank 300 new, BYD Seal new |
| Kenya | Limited | KRA full CRSP rate on new; RHD new availability limited | BYD Atto3 RHD new (Nairobi fleet only) |
| Ghana / Tanzania | Not recommended | Price-sensitive; used economics significantly better | Used 2–5yr preferred |
Warranty Arrangements for New Chinese Vehicles
One of the most significant advantages of new vehicles over used is warranty coverage — but this advantage only applies in markets where the Chinese brand has an official dealer and service network. Here is how warranty works for new Chinese vehicle exports:
| Brand | Markets with Official Warranty | Warranty Terms (standard) | For Other Markets |
|---|---|---|---|
| BYD | UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Kenya | 3 years / 100,000km (check current terms) | Local warranty arrangement required |
| GWM/Haval | UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Algeria (Haval) | 3 years / 100,000km | Local arrangement required |
| Geely | UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa | 3 years / 100,000km | Local arrangement required |
| Changan | UAE, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, some African markets | Varies by market — confirm with distributor | Local arrangement required |
| Chery/Omoda | UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa | Varies by model and market | Local arrangement required |
| Jetour | Limited official markets as of 2026 | Growing — confirm by destination | Local arrangement required |
| Tank (GWM) | UAE, Saudi Arabia, some Gulf | Varies | Local arrangement required |
Note: For markets where the Chinese brand does not have an official dealer, you can offer buyers a locally arranged warranty through an independent warranty provider. This is standard practice in many markets for grey market and independently imported vehicles. Disclose this clearly to buyers and ensure the warranty provider is reputable. Do not claim manufacturer warranty in markets where none exists.
What to Include in Your New Vehicle Inquiry
New vehicle inquiries require more specific information than used vehicle inquiries. The sourcing network needs precise specifications to find the right vehicle:
- Model, trim level, and engine: be specific. “Changan CS75 Plus 1.5T DCT Elite trim” is useful. “Changan CS75” is not.
- Colour (interior and exterior): colour availability varies by model and trim. If you have flexibility, say so — it speeds sourcing.
- LHD or RHD: confirm your market’s requirement. Most new Chinese vehicles are LHD — RHD narrows availability significantly.
- Model year: current model year preferred. If previous year is acceptable at lower price, state this.
- Build date requirement (if applicable): for Algeria (3-year limit), the build date must comply. Specify “2022 or newer build date” for 2025 orders.
- Quantity: number of units. For 1–2 units, sourcing is flexible. For 5+, advance notice improves pricing.
- Target loading date: when do you need the container loaded? This determines how quickly sourcing must happen.
- Warranty requirement: confirm if official manufacturer warranty is needed (affects which markets and brands are suitable).
- FOB budget ceiling: your maximum price at Nansha Port. This helps identify if dealer overstock opportunities are available.
Conclusion
Brand new Chinese vehicle sourcing is increasingly practical for overseas dealers — not just as a niche premium offering, but as a mainstream supply channel for Gulf markets, Algeria, and South Africa where new-condition vehicles are the preferred or regulatory-required choice. The key differences from used sourcing are longer lead times (3–8 weeks additional), pricing close to Chinese domestic retail, and a PDI process focused on spec compliance rather than condition assessment.
The strongest commercial case for new Chinese vehicles is in the Gulf, where low import duty (5%) and premium buyer expectations make the higher FOB cost viable. Algeria’s 3-year age restriction effectively mandates new or near-new sourcing. South Africa’s brand-aware buyers respond strongly to new-condition vehicles from brands with official SA presence and manufacturer warranty.
RichingAuto sources brand new vehicles through our established Guangzhou dealer network connections alongside our ready stock used vehicle inventory. Contact us on WhatsApp with your target model, spec, colour, destination, and timeline — we will confirm availability, provide a FOB quote for both new and used options, and advise on which approach best fits your market and margin requirements.