China is now one of the world’s most competitive producers of passenger and cargo vessels. From coastal ferries and river boats to small cargo ships and Ro-Ro vessels, buyers in Africa, the Middle East, Europe and beyond are increasingly looking to China for cost-effective, reliable tonnage.

For many importers and operators, however, the real challenge is not finding a ship—it’s managing the complexity of buying and exporting a vessel safely and legally. That’s where an experienced partner like Wigmore Trading can help.

This guide explains how to buy and export passenger and cargo ships from China, what to look out for, and how Wigmore Trading supports every stage of the transaction.

Why source passenger and cargo ships from China?

China’s shipbuilding industry offers several clear advantages for international buyers:

• Competitive pricing: Labour, materials and scale efficiencies often mean lower build or purchase costs than many Western yards, especially for small to medium-sized vessels.
• Broad product range: From high-speed passenger boats to general cargo vessels and small container feeders, many categories can be sourced from Chinese shipyards or secondary markets.
• Shorter lead times: Large capacity and standardized designs can mean faster delivery for new-builds, as well as a wide selection of used vessels ready to export.

For importers, governments, ferry operators and logistics companies in Africa and other emerging markets, this combination makes China an attractive place to source vessels. Wigmore Trading helps bridge the gap between buyers and reputable Chinese shipyards, brokers and owners.

Key considerations before you buy and export ships

1. Regulatory compliance and classification

Before you export passenger and cargo ships from China, you must confirm that the vessel:

• Complies with flag state regulations for the country where it will be registered
• Holds the appropriate class certification (e.g. from IACS member societies)
• Meets safety and environmental requirements for passenger or cargo use

Failing to check these details early can lead to costly modifications or even the refusal of registration. Wigmore Trading can help coordinate surveys, review documentation, and work with classification societies to ensure compliance before you commit.

2. Technical specifications and operational needs

Your vessel must match your real-world operations, not just look good on paper. Consider:

• Passenger capacity, cabin layout and accessibility
• Deadweight and cargo capacity, including deck layout and cargo handling gear
• Speed, fuel consumption and range
• Draft and dimensions for your ports and inland waterways
• Engine type, spares availability and maintenance support in your region

Wigmore Trading works with technical experts and local partners to align vessel specifications with your routes, climate and port infrastructure.

3. Financing, payment terms and Incoterms

Ships are high-value assets. To protect your cash flow:

• Agree on clear payment milestones (deposit, progress payments, final balance).
• Use trusted escrow arrangements where appropriate.
• Decide suitable Incoterms (e.g. FOB, CFR, CIF) for the export from China.

Wigmore Trading can support price negotiations, structure payment terms that manage risk, and coordinate marine insurance and freight under agreed Incoterms.

How Wigmore Trading supports your vessel procurement

Buying a passenger or cargo ship overseas involves many moving parts. Wigmore Trading can help by acting as a single point of coordination across:

• Sourcing and vendor selection – Identifying reputable shipyards, brokers and owners in China that match your vessel requirements and budget.
• Due diligence and inspections – Organising independent condition surveys, sea trials and technical inspections to verify the ship’s real condition.
• Contract support – Assisting with key commercial terms, delivery conditions and documentation requirements for export.
• Logistics and export handling – Coordinating port formalities, towing or delivery crew, export customs, and loading arrangements.
• Shipping to your destination – Working with specialised carriers or delivery voyages to bring the vessel safely to your chosen port.

Throughout the process, Wigmore Trading focuses on clear communication, transparent costs and practical risk management. Wigmore Trading can help you move from initial enquiry to delivered vessel with confidence.

Step-by-step: exporting passenger and cargo ships from China

While each deal is unique, the process to export passenger and cargo ships from China often follows these stages:

1. Define requirements
   Capacity, type (passenger, cargo or mixed), age range, budget, trading area, and preferred delivery window.
2. Market search and shortlist
   Wigmore Trading identifies suitable new-build options or second-hand ships in China, sharing specifications, photos, class records and indicative pricing.
3. Technical review and inspection
   You or your appointed surveyor inspect the shortlisted ships. Wigmore Trading helps arrange surveys, sea trials and translation where needed.
4. Negotiation and purchase agreement
   Once you’ve selected a vessel, commercial terms, delivery date, payment milestones and Incoterms are agreed and documented.
5. Regulatory checks and flag approval
   Documentation is prepared for your chosen flag state and port authorities. Any required modifications or upgrades are scheduled.
6. Export documentation and customs
   Wigmore Trading coordinates Chinese export procedures, including contracts, invoices, and customs clearance.
7. Delivery and voyage or transport
   The vessel is either crewed for a delivery voyage or lifted/transported by heavy-lift carrier, depending on size and route.
8. Arrival, registration and entry into service
   On arrival, the vessel is registered under your chosen flag and undergoes final inspections before commencing operations.

At each step, a specialist partner reduces delays and misunderstandings. Contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your sourcing.

Managing risk and ensuring quality

Ship purchases involve technical, financial and operational risk. Key risk controls include:

• Independent surveys to verify hull, machinery and structural condition
• Review of maintenance and class history to spot hidden issues
• Clear warranties and conditions in sale contracts
• Robust insurance cover for the delivery voyage
• Contingency planning for delays or unexpected repairs

Wigmore Trading works with trusted surveyors, maritime lawyers and logistics providers to help you manage these risks without slowing down your project.

Is now the right time to invest in a ship from China?

For fleet operators, ferry services, logistics providers and investors serving African and other emerging markets, Chinese-built passenger and cargo ships can offer a powerful combination of price, availability and flexibility.

If you plan to expand routes, replace older vessels or launch new services, exploring options in China—backed by experienced on-the-ground support—can accelerate your growth.

Wigmore Trading can help you compare options, understand total cost of ownership and move forward with a controlled, step-by-step procurement process.

Whether you’re looking for a small passenger ferry, a general cargo ship or a mixed-use vessel, buying from China doesn’t have to be complicated. Wigmore Trading can help you source the right ship, manage inspections and handle export and delivery to your port.

Get in touch with our team to learn more about how we can help you buy and export passenger and cargo ships from China with confidence.