How long does it take to export a Mazda CX-5 from China?
For in-stock vehicles, shipment can be arranged within 10 working days after payment. Sea transit time is added on top and depends on the route, the shipping method and vessel schedules, so we confirm the full timeline on your proforma invoice. Custom configurations or specific colours can take longer because they depend on sourcing and preparation.
Step 1 — Inquiry and specification
Send us the model year, trim, colours, quantity and destination port. If you are unsure which trim fits your market, describe your buyers and budget — our trim guide and sales team will help you choose. We reply with FOB or CIF pricing and current availability.
Step 2 — Proforma invoice (PI)
Once you approve the quote, we issue a proforma invoice listing each vehicle, the agreed Incoterm, delivery timeline and banking details. Payment is by T/T; L/C at sight can be discussed for suitable orders. Vehicles are allocated to your order after the agreed deposit or payment.
Step 3 — Inspection
Before loading, each vehicle is checked and photographed. You receive photos or video at every milestone, so you can confirm colour, trim and condition. If your market or your bank requires it, an independent third-party inspection (for example SGS) can be arranged at your request.
Step 4 — Ro-Ro or container loading
We recommend the shipping method per order. Containers protect vehicles from weather and handling and suit small mixed orders; Ro-Ro usually costs less per unit for larger volumes. Read our comparison of container vs Ro-Ro shipping for the CX-5.
| Method | Best for | How vehicles travel |
|---|---|---|
| 40HQ container | 1–4 units, mixed orders, high-value trims | Lashed on the floor or on two-tier racks inside a sealed container |
| Ro-Ro vessel | Larger volumes to ports with Ro-Ro service | Driven on and off the vessel; stowed on vehicle decks |
Step 5 — Documents and delivery
After loading and export clearance, we release the original documents your customs broker needs:
- Bill of lading (B/L)
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Certificate of origin
- Other documents on request, such as vehicle specification sheets for homologation
What is the difference between FOB and CIF?
Under FOB, our responsibility ends when the vehicles are on board at the Chinese port of loading; you book freight and insurance with your own forwarder. Under CIF, we book sea freight and minimum marine insurance to your destination port. Both terms are defined by the International Chamber of Commerce in Incoterms® 2020. Import duties, taxes and port charges at destination are paid by the buyer under both terms.
Shipping fee and delivery date are negotiated per order. Chat with our sales team for details.
Talk directly to an export manager
Answers on stock, CIF/FOB pricing, colours and fleet orders.