Why is the catalog price "approximate"?
The turnkey estimate depends on customs duty and recycling-fee rates, the CBR exchange rate on the day of clearance, and the condition of the specific car. That is why we show the total as a reference rather than a final price: the real cost may differ by 15–30% due to brokerage services, temporary storage, the GLONASS unit and paperwork.
What is the recycling fee and the power-based reduction?
The recycling fee is a mandatory payment when importing a car into Russia. For an individual importing a car "for personal use", a reduced rate applies if engine power does not exceed 160 hp (for combustion engines) or 80 hp for electric vehicles, and displacement is up to 3000 cc. Above these limits the full rate applies, which is many times higher.
Why does the car's age matter?
Age affects the amount of customs payments, and the key thresholds are 3 and 5 years. We count age from the car's manufacturing date (from the factory plate), not from the model year or the first registration date: it is the manufacturing date that determines which age bracket the car falls into.
What are SBKTS and EPTS?
SBKTS is the vehicle design safety certificate, confirming that the car meets technical requirements. EPTS is the electronic vehicle passport. Both documents are issued upon import and are required to register the car in Russia.
How long does a car take to arrive from China?
Roughly 4 to 8 weeks — the time depends on the route, logistics load and paperwork. The exact timing for a specific car is quoted by the intermediary handling the delivery.
Who transports and clears the car through customs?
Delivery, customs clearance and registration are handled by the intermediary or a customs broker. PILICAR does not provide logistics or brokerage services — we provide information and connect you with an intermediary.
How is the car's condition verified?
In the catalog we show specifications and photos from the supplier's listing. A detailed inspection of a specific car before purchase is arranged by the intermediary — the platform does not conduct physical inspections.
What does "power to be confirmed" mean?
The reduced recycling fee depends on engine power, so we try to confirm it from the car's documents. If there is no confirmed power data, we honestly mark it "power to be confirmed" and do not present the reduction as guaranteed.
Do you sell cars?
No. PILICAR is an information platform. We do not sell cars, do not charge for them and are not a party to the transaction. Sales and support are handled by the intermediary.
Where does the availability and pricing data come from?
The catalog is built through direct integrations with verified suppliers and is updated every hour. We show current listings and remove cars that have been sold.
How do I become an intermediary or a dealer?
There are separate plans and access to buyer requests for intermediaries and dealers. Check the terms on the pricing page or write to us — we will explain how to get connected.
Can I order a car that is not in the catalog?
Yes. If the car you need is not in the catalog, describe the desired model and budget in a request — the intermediary will advise whether it can be found for your request.
Do I have to pay to use the catalog?
For buyers, the catalog and the turnkey cost estimate are free. Paid plans exist only for intermediaries and dealers.
Is the turnkey estimate an offer?
No. The estimate is informational and approximate and is not a public offer within the meaning of Article 437 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation. For an exact calculation, contact a customs broker or an intermediary.