Post-Import Checklist — What to Do After Buying a Chinese EV from China (2026)

Importing a Chinese EV is only half the job. After delivery you have about 15 more steps to make the car fully ready for daily use. This checklist walks you through every step from the moment the transport arrives to your first long trip.

First 24 hours after delivery

1. Complete inventory check

Compare the car's state with port photos. Verify presence of: keys (2 fobs), charging cable (Type 2 for home), Type 2 → Type 1 adapter (if needed), spare wheel or repair kit, manual (in Chinese, but visual), documents (COC, export declaration, invoice).

2. Photo and video documentation

Take a full photo tour of the car from all sides, including close-ups of rims, glass, mirrors. Plus a 2-3 minute video — full interior, trunk, all electronics. This is your insurance if you find hidden defects later.

3. Charge to 100%

EVs usually arrive at 20-40% charge. A full charge to 100% is needed for the first test drive and proper BMS (battery management system) calibration. First full charge takes 6-12 hours on a standard outlet or 1-2 hours on DC charging.

First week — registration and insurance

4. Vehicle registration

Register the car with local traffic authority (RTA in UAE, MOI in KSA, ГАИ in RU). Usually takes 1-2 hours + queue. Bring: title/COC, ownership document, ID, insurance policy. Note — some Chinese models may face issues due to lack of local type approval. Verify with your broker in advance.

5. Insurance

Mandatory third-party insurance can be purchased online. For EVs it's usually 5-10% more expensive than for same-power ICE. Comprehensive coverage — 3-7% of car value. Chinese EVs cost more to insure due to limited claims history data.

6. Warranty transfer

If the Chinese manufacturer offers international warranty (BYD, some AITO variants), transfer it to your name. This requires: purchase invoice, VIN, contact with authorized regional dealer. Some brands don't transfer warranty internationally — accept that as normal.

Localization and multimedia setup

7. Diagnostics with us (remote or in-person)

At this stage, reach out to us. Free diagnostics from photos or remotely — we identify firmware version, which apps to install, CarPlay compatibility. Based on the result, we quote exact price and timing for full localization.

8. Head unit localization

Full multimedia system localization (see dedicated guide for BYD and AITO). Takes 2-6 hours depending on model. Cost: 250-800 USD. Payment after verification.

9. SIM slot and internet activation

We solder a physical SIM slot connector. Activate mobile internet with a local carrier. Often included in the main localization package.

10. App installation and setup

Google Maps, Waze, YouTube, WhatsApp, Telegram, Spotify — everything you need. Also configure voice assistant and migrate your contacts and calendar.

Technical inspection and road prep

11. First service check

After 200-500 km we recommend a first service visit. Check: wheel balance (may have shifted in shipping container), tire pressure (China uses different units), brake fluid and coolant levels, all lights, seatbelt condition.

12. Local-climate tires

Chinese EVs arrive on all-season tires. For deserts (UAE, KSA) you may want more heat-resistant tires. For northern climates — winter tires. Some models use non-standard sizes (e.g. Han L — 245/45R20). Verify size before ordering.

13. Emergency kit

Chinese configurations usually don't include: first-aid kit (required in most jurisdictions), fire extinguisher (required), warning triangle (required), reflective vest. Purchase in advance.

Charging infrastructure

14. Home charging setup

If you plan to charge at home, install a wallbox rated 7-11 kW. Speeds up charging from 12 hours (standard outlet) to 4-6 hours for a full cycle. Installation cost — from $300 to $1000 depending on distance to the electrical panel.

15. Charging network apps

Download to your phone: relevant local EV-charging apps. Many networks require pre-registration and card on file.

What to remember in the first month

First month is 'break-in'. Battery calibrates, BMS learns your driving style. We recommend: don't charge to 100% every day (20-80% is optimal), avoid fast charging in the first 2 weeks, watch for oddities (unusual noises, vibrations, unusual dashboard warnings) and note them. If you notice anything — contact the seller or dealer while warranty is in force.