# Importing Parking Equipment from a Chinese Factory: Incoterms, Lead Times and QC

> Agree a full technical specification and layout drawing, the Incoterm (FOB Shanghai or CIF your port), payment terms, production lead time, pre-shipment inspection, packing list and after-sales support before you place the order. Ask for the factory test record and certificates for your exact model.

Published 2026-02-12, updated 2026-10-10 by Parking System Factory Engineering Desk.

Buying directly from a factory saves cost and gives you direct access to the engineers who design your system. A clear agreement up front prevents misunderstandings later.

## 1. Lock the specification

Agree in writing: model, capacity per space, car size limits, number of levels and spaces, drive type, voltage and frequency, control method, finish (painted, powder coated or galvanised) and colour. Attach the layout drawing to the purchase order.

## 2. Choose the Incoterm

- FOB Shanghai: we deliver the goods on board your nominated vessel; you control freight and insurance.

- CFR / CIF: we arrange sea freight (and insurance for CIF) to your port.

- DAP / DDP: possible for some markets; customs and local delivery need careful planning.

## 3. Agree on lead time and milestones

Break the schedule into drawing approval, production, factory testing, packing and shipment. For engineered systems, the drawing approval step is where most time is saved or lost.

## 4. Inspect before shipment

Ask for photos and video of welding, surface treatment and the factory load test of your order. You can also appoint a third-party inspection company to check quantity, dimensions and packing against the packing list.

## 5. Packing and documents

Steel parts are bundled and secured in containers, while electrical parts and hydraulic units are packed in wooden cases. Expect a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin and, where requested, CE documents.

## 6. After-sales support

Confirm the warranty period (12–24 months on our range, depending on product), installation support, spare parts and response times. We support installers by drawings, video calls and on-site supervision when required.
Ready to discuss a project? [Request a quotation](https://www.parkingsystemfactory.com/contact/) or message us on WhatsApp.

## FAQ

### What is the typical lead time?

Standard two-level and four-post lifts usually ship in about 15–30 days after deposit. Puzzle, rotary and tower systems are engineered to order and typically take longer; we confirm the schedule with the quotation.

### What is the minimum order quantity?

Our minimum order is one set for most products, so you can start with a single unit or a sample.

### Which port do you ship from?

We usually ship from Shanghai. We can quote FOB Shanghai, CFR or CIF to your nearest port.