What documents come with a used Caterpillar excavator?
When you buy a used Caterpillar excavator from ExcaYard, you receive a complete set of export documents including a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificate of origin. Depending on your destination country, we also handle essential certifications such as SONCAP, SABER, PVoC, or GSA. Additionally, every machine comes with a detailed 150-point pre-shipment inspection report with photos and video to verify condition and hours.
Standard Export Documents Included
Every used Caterpillar excavator shipment from ExcaYard includes a core set of documents required for international trade and customs clearance. These are prepared by our export team and provided to you before or alongside the machine.
- Commercial invoice: Details the machine description, price, and terms of sale.
- Packing list: Lists all items shipped, including the excavator and any included accessories or spare parts.
- Bill of lading: The carrier's receipt and contract of carriage, essential for claiming your cargo at the destination port.
- Certificate of origin: Confirms the machine's origin, often required for import duty calculations or trade agreements.
These documents are issued in English and can be legalized or attested if your local customs authority requires it. We work with freight forwarders and banks to ensure all paperwork aligns with your payment method, whether T/T or L/C.
Country-Specific Certifications We Handle
Many destination countries require additional conformity certificates for imported machinery. ExcaYard manages these certifications on your behalf, so you don't have to navigate foreign bureaucracies alone. The specific certificate depends on your country:
| Country/Region | Required Certificate | Issuing Body/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | SONCAP | Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Program |
| Saudi Arabia | SABER | Saudi Product Safety Program, via SABER platform |
| Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana | PVoC | Pre-Export Verification of Conformity |
| Ghana | GSA | Ghana Standards Authority |
| Kenya | KEBS | Kenya Bureau of Standards |
We coordinate with accredited inspection agencies to obtain these certificates before shipment. This prevents delays at your port and ensures your excavator meets local import regulations. If your country is not listed, contact us to confirm the requirements.
Inspection Report and Condition Verification
Every used Caterpillar excavator undergoes a rigorous 150-point pre-shipment inspection at our yard in Hefei, Anhui. This inspection covers all major systems: engine, hydraulics, undercarriage, electrical, and structural components. We also verify the machine's working hours and perform paint-thickness checks to detect any prior repairs or repainting.
You receive a comprehensive report with high-resolution photos and video footage, so you can assess the machine's condition remotely. This transparency is part of our commitment to helping you buy with confidence. If you require a third-party inspection, we can accommodate that as well; see our guide on third-party inspections.
Payment Methods and Financial Documents
ExcaYard accepts payment via T/T (telegraphic transfer) in USD, L/C (letter of credit) through Bank of China, and Wise. The payment method you choose affects the financial documents you'll receive. For T/T, we provide a proforma invoice and bank details; for L/C, we work with your bank to ensure compliance with the letter's terms. All transactions are secure and documented.
We recommend confirming the exact documentation required by your bank and customs broker before finalizing payment. Our team can guide you through the process and provide sample documents if needed.
Shipping Methods and Lead Times
We offer flexible shipping options: FOB (free on board) or CIF (cost, insurance, and freight). Machines can be shipped via RoRo (roll-on/roll-off), container, or flat-rack, depending on size and destination. Default ports of loading are Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, and Tianjin. Typical CIF lead time is 28-45 days port-to-port, though this can vary by route and vessel schedule.
For example, shipping a used Volvo excavator to Uganda follows a similar process; you can read more about shipping to Uganda. We handle all logistics and keep you informed at every stage.
Frequently asked questions
Do I get an inspection report with my used Caterpillar excavator?
Yes. Every machine includes a 150-point pre-shipment inspection report with photos and video, hours verification, and paint-thickness checks.
Can you provide SONCAP or SABER for my country?
We handle SONCAP for Nigeria, SABER for Saudi Arabia, PVoC for Kenya, Tanzania, and Ghana, GSA for Ghana, and KEBS for Kenya. Contact us for other countries.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept T/T USD wire, L/C through Bank of China, and Wise. We'll provide the necessary financial documents for your chosen method.
Ready to import a used Caterpillar excavator? Contact our export desk on WhatsApp at +86 193 9277 7259 for a personalized quote and document checklist. We serve Africa, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and the CIS.
