Business · 3 min read
Importing car wrap film from China: samples, Incoterms, freight and customs
A practical checklist for importing vinyl wrap and PPF from a Chinese factory: samples, MOQ, Incoterms, express vs air vs sea freight, packaging, HS codes and receiving inspections.
Short answer: Test samples first, confirm specs and packaging in a written proforma invoice, choose Incoterms (EXW, FOB or CIF) and freight mode by order size, ask your broker to confirm the HS code (self-adhesive plastic film is commonly under heading 3919), and inspect rolls against batch numbers on arrival.
Buying direct from a factory can cut your cost per roll significantly, but only if the shipment arrives as expected. Use this checklist.
1. Start with samples
Ask for A4 samples or a swatch book of the films you plan to buy. Test them with your installers and under your local climate. Our A4 samples and swatch books are free for qualified buyers.
2. Confirm everything in writing
Before payment, the proforma invoice should state:
- Product names, colors and roll sizes
- Quantity per color
- Packaging (neutral or your branding)
- Incoterm and named port
- Lead time and payment terms
3. Choose an Incoterm
- EXW — you collect from the factory; you handle export clearance.
- FOB — the factory delivers onto the vessel at a Chinese port; you pay ocean freight.
- CIF — the factory pays freight and insurance to your port; you handle import clearance.
If you are new to importing, CIF or a freight forwarder's door-to-door service is simplest.
4. Pick a freight mode
| Order size | Usual mode | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Samples, 1–5 rolls | Express courier | Fastest, door to door |
| 5–40 rolls | Air freight or consolidated sea (LCL) | Balance of cost and speed |
| Pallets to full container | Sea freight (LCL or FCL) | Lowest cost per roll |
In-stock films leave our factory within three business days; custom orders usually within seven business days.
5. Packaging and labels
Confirm how rolls are packed and protected in transit, and ask for carton dimensions and gross weights so your forwarder can quote accurately.
6. Customs classification
Self-adhesive plastic film is commonly classified under HS heading 3919, but the exact code and duty rate depend on your country. Ask your customs broker to confirm before shipping.
7. Inspect on arrival
Check carton count, roll labels and batch numbers against the packing list. Unroll a short length of each color to check for transit damage. Report problems with photos and roll numbers within a few days.
Have a destination in mind? Ask us for a freight-inclusive quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum order to import wrap film?
Our films ship from one roll, so you can start with a mixed trial order.
How long does sea freight take?
Typically several weeks depending on route and destination port; air and express are faster.
Do you provide documents for customs?
Yes: commercial invoice, packing list and, on request, RoHS documents.
