Agree price and Incoterm (usually FOB Shanghai or CIF your port), pay a deposit, approve the video inspection, then the machine is cleaned, packed and shipped by container, flat rack or RoRo. Typical door-to-port time is 25–45 days.
Importing a used excavator from China is simpler than most first-time buyers expect. Shanghai is the world’s busiest container port, with direct sailings to almost every coastal country. This guide walks through the full process as we run it for our customers.
The process in 7 steps
- Choose the machine. Send us the model or the job you need it for. We reply with photos, videos, hours and the test report.
- Quotation and Incoterm. We quote FOB Shanghai, or CFR/CIF to your port. FOB means you arrange ocean freight; CIF means we do.
- Proforma invoice and deposit. Usually 30% by T/T to reserve the machine.
- Final inspection. We film a final running test. Third-party inspection (SGS, BV, Intertek or a CCIC pre-shipment inspection where your country requires it) can be arranged.
- Cleaning and preparation. Machines are washed, fluids checked, and the boom secured or removed for shipping.
- Balance payment and shipping. After the balance is paid, the machine is loaded and the bill of lading is released.
- Customs clearance at destination. Your customs broker clears the machine using our documents.
Container, flat rack or RoRo?
| Method | Best for | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40HQ container | Mini excavators up to ~6 t, parts | Lowest cost, secure, available to every port | Size limit; larger machines need disassembly |
| Flat rack | 7 – 25 t excavators, dozers | No disassembly for most machines | More expensive than container |
| RoRo | Large excavators, loaders, graders | Machine drives on and off; good for very large units | Limited routes and sailing dates |
Documents you will receive
- Commercial invoice and packing list
- Bill of lading (original or telex release)
- Certificate of origin (Form E, Form A or general CO where applicable)
- Pre-shipment inspection certificate if your country requires one
- Machine test report and photos
- Fumigation certificate for wooden packing where required
Check your country’s import rules first
Some countries restrict the age of imported used machinery or require specific inspections and emissions standards. Always confirm with your customs broker before you pay a deposit. We are happy to provide the machine’s year, serial number and engine details in advance so your broker can check.
How long does it take?
Preparation and loading usually take 3–7 days after payment. Ocean transit from Shanghai is roughly 15–25 days to Southeast Asia and the Middle East, 25–40 days to Africa and 30–45 days to South America, depending on routing.
Payment
We accept T/T bank transfer and L/C at sight for larger orders. Never pay to a personal account: all payments go to the company account named on the proforma invoice.
Ask for a landed-cost quote to your port.
FAQ
How long does shipping an excavator from China take?
Usually 3–7 days for preparation plus 15–45 days ocean transit, depending on your destination port.
What is the cheapest way to ship a mini excavator?
A 40HQ container is the cheapest method. Several mini excavators can share one container to reduce cost per machine.
Do you provide a certificate of origin?
Yes. We provide a certificate of origin and other export documents where applicable for your destination.
Our mechanics and export staff test and ship used machinery from Shanghai every week. This guide reflects what we see in our own yard.
