How Much Does it Cost to Import a Golf Cart From China (Real Example in 2024)
CIF, DDU, and DDP are international trade terms that define the responsibilities of the buyer and seller in a transaction, including the shipping and delivery of goods. These terms are part of the Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) published by the International Chamber of Commerce. When importing golf carts from China to the US, it's essential to understand these terms to clarify the responsibilities and costs associated with the transportation and delivery of the goods.
1. CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight):
Under CIF, the seller is responsible for the costs, insurance, and freight to deliver the goods to a named port of destination in the buyer's country (in this case, a US port).
The seller is responsible for arranging and paying for the main carriage of the goods, as well as obtaining insurance against the buyer's risk of loss or damage during transit.
Once the goods arrive at the US port, the buyer takes over the responsibility for any further costs, including unloading, customs clearance, and transportation from the port to the final destination. If you need any further explanation, feel free to drop us a message. Our team at MMC provides FREE consultations to make sure you are well-informed on your decisions.
2. DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid):
DDU means that the seller is responsible for delivering the goods to a named place in the buyer's country (often the buyer's premises or a specific location).
However, the seller is not responsible for paying import duties or taxes in the buyer's country. The buyer is responsible for these costs, as well as for customs clearance.
DDU places a significant burden on the buyer in terms of customs compliance and paying import duties, taxes, and other charges.
3. DDP (Delivered Duty Paid):
DDP is a more comprehensive term where the seller takes on the maximum responsibility. The seller is responsible for delivering the goods to a named place in the buyer's country, including paying for all transportation, import duties, taxes, and customs clearance.
The buyer only needs to receive the goods at their specified location without dealing with additional costs or responsibilities related to the import process.
When importing golf carts from China to the US, the choice of Incoterms depends on the agreement between the buyer and seller, as well as the level of risk and responsibility each party is willing to assume. It's important to clearly define the chosen Incoterms in the sales contract to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth importation process. Additionally, customs regulations and import requirements should be thoroughly researched and understood to comply with the relevant laws in both the exporting and importing countries. Consulting with a freight forwarder or international trade expert can be beneficial in navigating the complexities of the import process.
Austin, Texas Dealer's Real-World Example (December, 2023)
In this real-world example, let's further detail the importation of 6 golf carts (including three 6-seaters and two 4-seaters) by a dealer based in Austin, Texas, USA. The chosen Incoterm is DDP, and a 20ft container is utilized for shipping, with a total shipping cost of $4100.
20ft container: Can accommodate Three MMC 4+2 (6 seaters) and Two MMC 2+2 (4 seaters)
40ft container: Can accommodate Eleven MMC 4+2 (6 seaters)
For the first shipping option, CIF, to the port, MMC’s China Production Line is only responsible for transportation to the Houston port. Dealers need to find a customs clearance company to enter ISF, clear customs, pay taxes, and transport to the door.
To Houston port (CIF Houston trade term):
20ft container: Shipping cost of $2500 USD
40ft container: Shipping cost of $3500 USD
For the second shipping option, DDU, to the door, MMC’s China Production Line is responsible for transporting to the customer's door, entering ISF, clearing customs, and transporting to the door. Dealers only need to pay 10% of the customs duty. If the Dealers wants MMC to directly pay the taxes (changing the trade term from DDU to DDP), when submitting documents to customs, we can help handle the paperwork with an additional fee. If the customer wants us to pay taxes, they should include the tax payment with the purchase.
First to Houston port, then to the door (DDU trade term):
20ft container: Shipping cost of $4100 USD
40ft container: Shipping cost of $5400 USD
This image gives you an idea of the space of 20FT vs. 40FT containers.
By opting for DDP and arranging the shipment in a 20ft container, the Austin-based dealer streamlines the importation process, as they only need to receive the golf carts at their destination without the need to navigate the complexities of customs procedures or bear additional costs.
Future is Here. MMC Golf Carts!
Starting at $7,299 (All Included with DDP)!
Key Features
Powerful and Efficient Electric Motor: Our AC Electric Motor is rated at 5,000 watts (7500W available), providing ample power for any terrain. It is also energy-efficient, allowing for longer driving ranges between charges.
Extra Long-Lasting Battery: Our golf carts come with a 48V battery consisting of 6 or 8V deep cycle batteries (Lithium 48V or 72V available). This provides a driving range of up to 40 miles on a single charge, making it perfect for those long days on the course and beyond.
Lightning Fast Charging for Uninterrupted Playtime: Charge your 4 or 6 passenger electric golf cart overnight, and it’s ready in just 6 hours using a standard 120V charging port.
Smooth Ride Guaranteed Suspension: Our golf carts come with an independent MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a swing arm straight axle in the rear, providing a smooth and comfortable ride (double swing arm and independent front suspension available). This feature ensures that you stay comfortable on any terrain, including bumpy or uneven surfaces.
Sleek and Modern Style Design: Our electric golf carts come in a variety of colors, including Blue, Black, Red, Silver, Matte Black, White, Purple, and more. Coupled with aluminum wheels, our electric off road golf carts exude a modern charm.
Spacious and Comfortable Seating: Our 4 person electric golf carts feature spacious and comfortable seats with plenty of legroom and headroom. This makes it easy to transport a group of friends or family members in style and comfort.
Quiet and Eco-Friendly: Our electric golf carts are quiet and produce zero emissions, making them an eco-friendly choice for anyone who wants to reduce their carbon footprint. This feature is particularly appealing for those who live in environmentally conscious communities.
Two-Year Limited Warranty: Your peace of mind is our priority. That’s why we back our off road golf carts with a two-year limited warranty.
FAQs
-
Known as the “Tesla of Golf Carts”, MMC is located in Oklahoma City, OK (USA). MMC is specialized in electric innovation, such as electric golf carts, electric UTVs, electric bikes, and rechargeable lithium batteries, etc.
-
Most MMC M40 electric golf carts can travel between 35 to 45 miles on a single full charge depending on the model, terrain, and battery capacity.
-
The time-frame for delivery is typically about 2-4 weeks after purchase if you’re located in the United States and Canada. Our dedicated customer support team will send you weekly updates for delivery. You can also contact us anytime.
