Quick Answer
What should a B2B auto parts import checklist include? A B2B auto parts import checklist should verify supplier IATF 16949 certification, request product samples for testing, confirm OE cross-reference accuracy, negotiate INCOTERMS (FOB or CIF), arrange third-party quality inspection before shipment, and maintain documentation including commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.
Importing EGR valves from China involves MOQ, lead time, shipping, packaging, and inspection — all affecting total landed cost. This checklist covers every step.
MOQ negotiation
| Order type | Typical MOQ | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trial order | 50-100 pcs | Often flexible for first order |
| Standard production | 200-500 pcs | Tied to material lot sizes |
| Custom packaging | 500-1,000 pcs | Custom box printing minimum |
| Custom part | 1,000+ pcs | Tooling + PPAP amortization |
Lead time planning
| Phase | Time |
|---|---|
| Material procurement | 5-10 days |
| Production | 10-20 days |
| Quality inspection | 3-5 days |
| Packaging & loading | 3-5 days |
| Total (stock) | 5-10 days |
| Total (production) | 20-40 days |
Always add +7 days buffer. CNY (Jan/Feb) adds 2-3 weeks. National Day (Oct 1-7) adds 1 week.
Shipping terms
| Term | Meaning | Shipping paid by |
|---|---|---|
| FOB | Seller delivers to port | Buyer from port |
| CIF | Seller pays shipping + insurance to port | Seller |
| DDP | Seller delivers to buyer's door | Seller |
| EXW | Buyer picks up at factory | Buyer (all) |
Recommendation: FOB with your own forwarder for first orders. 20ft container Ningbo to Rotterdam: USD 2,000-5,000, transit 28-35 days.
Packaging requirements
- Individual box: OE number, TENDA number, qty, weight, "Made in China"
- Master carton: 10-20 valves, stretch-wrapped on EUR pallet
- Labels: "Fragile," "This Side Up," "Keep Dry"
- Desiccant: 2-4 silica gel bags per carton
Quality inspection before shipping
- Factory self-inspection (mandatory): 100% leak test + AQL sampling
- Third-party pre-shipment (recommended): SGS/BV/TÜV, USD 300-800/day, 5-10% sample
- Buyer inspection (large orders): FRI per ISO 2859-1
Key tests: leak rate (≤5 cc/min @ 1.5 bar), flow curve (3-5 samples vs OE), dimensions (Cpk ≥1.33).
Payment terms
| Method | Terms | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| 30% deposit + 70% before ship | Most common | Medium |
| 30% + 70% against B/L copy | Standard sea freight | Low-medium |
| 100% L/C | Large orders (>USD 50k) | Low |
| 100% T/T advance | Trial only | High |
See: manufacturer guide | IATF guide | OEM vs aftermarket
Frequently asked questions
Typical lead time?
Stock: 5-10 days. Production: 20-40 days. Add 7 days buffer.
First order MOQ?
50-100 pcs. Standard: 200-500. Flexible for first orders.
FOB or CIF?
FOB with your forwarder for first orders — more control. CIF convenient but seller's shipping margin 10-20% above market.
How to ensure quality?
Factory inspection report + third-party pre-shipment inspection (SGS/BV/TUV, USD 300-800/day).