Keys and Accessories: A Handover Checklist for Used Car Exports from China

Small items can become large sources of confusion in an overseas vehicle purchase. A buyer may expect two working keys, a charging cable, or a luggage cover, while the seller’s offer includes something different. For used cars exported from China, a shared inventory helps connect the sales discussion, dispatch preparation, and destination handover.

01List what is included before agreeing the order

Ask the seller to identify every key and accessory included with the specific vehicle. Separate equipment installed on the car from removable items such as charging cables, parcel shelves, tool kits, and manuals. Use the quotation or an attached checklist to record the agreed scope instead of relying on a photograph of a similar model.

Describe each item clearly enough for another person to recognize it. Where useful, add a photograph and quantity. Mark an item as unavailable or unconfirmed when that is the actual position, rather than leaving a blank that different people may interpret differently.

02Check keys as individual items

Request the number and type of keys supplied, including any separate emergency blade or access device listed by the seller. Ask for a demonstration of the functions that can safely be checked while the vehicle is stationary. Record which key was demonstrated, rather than assuming that a second key works because the first one does.

If a replacement or additional key is important to you, ask an appropriate service provider about the process for the exact vehicle before purchase. Clarify what documents, vehicle access, or appointments it may require. Avoid assuming that a key case, remote shell, or photograph proves that a complete working key is included.

03Identify charging equipment precisely

For an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, request photographs of any supplied charging equipment and its identification labels. Record the make, model or part reference where available, connector appearance, and visible condition. Ask whether the item is part of the vehicle sale or a separately quoted addition.

Have a qualified local provider assess suitability for your intended charging setup. An accessory being present does not establish compatibility, safe operation, or approval for your destination. Keep that assessment separate from the inventory check, and do not ask the seller to improvise adapters or demonstrate equipment with an unsuitable supply.

04Confirm what the carrier will accept

Give the freight forwarder the proposed accessory list before the vehicle is handed over for shipping. Ask which items may travel with the car, how they must be presented, and whether anything needs separate arrangements. Get instructions for your booked service rather than copying another buyer’s packing method.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s published cargo receiving guidance states that personal effects and non-standard equipment are not allowed in vehicles. This is a carrier-specific example of why purchase inclusions and shipping acceptance need separate checks. Confirm the applicable requirements with your actual provider; an item being included in the sale does not automatically authorize placing it inside the vehicle.

05Create an itemized dispatch record

Ask the dispatch team to reconcile the agreed list with the items actually handed over. Record the vehicle reference, date, quantities, and any permitted storage or packaging arrangement specified by the carrier. Take clear photographs where allowed, but avoid displaying sensitive key codes or unrelated personal information in shared images.

Assign responsibility for any item travelling separately, including the destination contact and the reference used to track it. If an item is missing, obtain an agreed next step in writing. Do not mark it as supplied simply because someone intends to obtain it later.

06Reconcile the same list at destination

Give the receiving person a copy of the dispatch inventory before arrival. Ask them to compare the delivered items with that record and note any discrepancy individually. Keep observations factual: the expected quantity, actual quantity, identifying details, and visible condition. Use the reporting process agreed with the responsible provider.

Retain the inventory with your purchase and arrival documents so future service questions have a clear reference. Our vehicle arrival checklist covers the broader condition review. Closing the accessory list is one part of handover, and unresolved items should remain visible until a documented outcome is agreed.

Make accessory requirements part of your inquiry

Send OUMCAR your destination, preferred vehicle, and the keys or accessories you need included. A specific list provides a clearer basis for discussing the vehicle and the proposed handover arrangements.

Discuss your vehicle requirements →