How to import a vending machine from China step by step (FOB, DAP or DDP)
Many of the vending machines sold in Latin America are manufactured in China. The difference between a smooth purchase and a headache lies in understanding what the price includes, how long each stage takes and who pays for what. This guide explains the process the way we do it at Ciaespinoza.com.
Step 1. Choose the machine and get a quote
First you define the model, capacity, voltage and options (card reader, screen, remote monitoring). With that, the price for your country is quoted. In our store, every product page has a country selector that shows the reference price with the delivery term that applies.
Step 2. Understand the delivery term (Incoterm)
The Incoterm tells you how far what you pay for goes. The three you will see most:
| Term | What it includes | What you pay separately |
|---|---|---|
| FOB (Free On Board) | The machine delivered at the port in China | Freight, insurance, duties, taxes and customs clearance in your country |
| DAP (Delivered at Place) | The machine delivered to the destination | Your country's import taxes |
| DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | Freight, duties and taxes to the stated city | Only shipping to another city, if applicable |
In Mexico we sell DDP: the price already includes import taxes and we handle the paperwork. To learn about the 11 Incoterms and when each one makes sense, read Delivery terms.
Step 3. Deposit and manufacturing
Machines are made to order. The usual arrangement is a 50 % deposit to start manufacturing, which takes 15 to 55 business days depending on the model. The balance is paid once manufacturing is finished and before shipping. If you prefer, you can pay 100 % online. Details in the partial payment policy.
Step 4. Final payment and shipping
Once paid in full, the machine is shipped. Sea shipping takes 30 to 58 business days and air shipping 15 to 29 business days, counted from full payment. Sea freight is the norm for large machines because of their weight: a 450 kg per day ice machine weighs about 600 kg.
Step 5. Receiving and installation
Before it arrives, prepare the site: power at the voltage you ordered, a water connection and drain if it is an ice or water machine, and a roofed space. Usually a local electrician or plumber installs it.
Step 6. Invoice and warranty
In Mexico we issue CFDI invoices (see Invoicing). Machines have a 12-month warranty from leaving the factory, covering parts against manufacturing defects. That is why it is worth ordering wear parts such as filters and bags from the start: see the vending machine accessories.
Common mistakes when importing on your own
- Comparing an FOB price with a DDP price as if they were the same.
- Not confirming the voltage: many machines come in 220 V.
- Counting time in calendar days and promising an impossible opening date.
- Forgetting spare parts and being stuck waiting for a filter.
Want to know how much a machine costs delivered to your city? Choose your model in Vending machines or message us on WhatsApp at +1 (555) 967-3577.