Importing electric motorcycles from China allows Peruvian distributors to compare different models, battery configurations and supply formats. Buyers can also discuss private-label branding and arrange spare parts together with their vehicle orders.
However, a successful import starts before production. The motorcycle specification, documentation, packing method and after-sales arrangements should all be agreed in advance.
A practical purchasing process includes:
Before contacting suppliers, decide who will buy the motorcycles and how they will use them.
Potential customer groups include:
A model for short urban journeys may require a different configuration from one used for frequent deliveries, passenger transport or routes with steep slopes.
Prepare a purchasing brief covering:
| Item | What to specify |
|---|---|
| Intended use | Commuting, delivery, passenger use or fleet operation |
| Performance | Required speed and loaded climbing ability |
| Payload | Rider, passenger and cargo weight |
| Battery | Chemistry, capacity and charging arrangements |
| Chassis | Wheel size, suspension, brakes and ground clearance |
| Commercial target | Purchase budget, target selling price and order quantity |
| Supply format | Complete motorcycles, SKD or CKD |
Providing the same brief to each supplier makes quotations easier to compare.
Confirm the requirements for the actual model and shipment format before committing to production.
Provide a Peruvian customs broker with the motorcycle’s technical specifications, photographs, intended use and proposed packing condition. Ask the broker to verify:
Customs clearance and permission to operate a vehicle on public roads should both be checked during planning.
SUNAT’s guidance states that imports for consumption with an FOB value above US$2,000 require the assistance of a customs agency. Confirm the procedure applicable to your order with your broker. Asistente Aduanero
Do not assume certificates used in another market automatically satisfy Peruvian requirements.
Both manufacturers and trading companies can support an import project. The important point is to establish who controls production and who is responsible when problems arise.
Before selecting a supplier, request:
A factory visit, live video walkthrough or independent inspection can help verify the supplier’s capabilities.
Check that the contracting company and payment beneficiary are clearly identified. Any differences should be explained and documented before payment.
Two motorcycles with similar bodywork may contain different batteries, motors, controllers and brakes.
Ask each supplier to quote against an agreed specification, including:
Confirm whether the price includes the battery, charger, branding and export packing.
A lower quotation may reflect a different configuration rather than a better commercial offer.
Battery selection affects purchase price, vehicle weight, riding range and replacement costs.
For a lithium configuration, request the battery chemistry, rated energy, cell specification and battery management system protections.
Also confirm:
Lead-acid batteries may appeal to buyers prioritizing a lower initial purchase price. Evaluate their weight, charging requirements, performance under load and expected replacement costs.
For either option, ask for range-test conditions rather than relying only on an advertised distance.
The charger must match the battery chemistry and charging limits. Confirm its input rating, plug, connector and labeling before production.
The supply format should match your local facilities, workforce and business plan.
| Supply format | What buyers should evaluate |
|---|---|
| Complete motorcycles | Packing volume, transport protection and final preparation after arrival |
| SKD | Exact disassembly level, assembly tools and labor requirements |
| CKD | Parts identification, assembly equipment, worker training and quality control |
Suppliers may use CKD and SKD terminology differently. Request photographs and a written packing description.
For assembly projects, confirm whether the supplier provides:
Compare total delivered and assembled costs. A smaller shipping volume does not automatically mean a lower overall cost.
A sample helps buyers assess fit, finish, performance and serviceability before ordering a larger quantity.
Test it with the intended rider and cargo weight. Where practical, evaluate representative routes and charging conditions.
Check:
Record the approved configuration in a specification sheet. Include photographs, artwork and component details where useful.
Require written approval before the supplier changes agreed components.
The sales contract should connect the commercial agreement with the approved product specification.
Include:
For customized orders, approve logos, colors, decals and packaging before production begins.
Verify any requested change to bank details through a previously established contact channel before transferring funds.
Pre-shipment inspection should cover product quality, specification accuracy and packing completeness.
For complete motorcycles, inspect:
For CKD and SKD orders, also verify component quantities, carton labels and the match between packed goods and assembly lists.
Agree in advance how defects, shortages or incorrect components will be corrected before dispatch.
Request freight quotations using the actual packing dimensions, weights, battery details and destination.
Confirm:
For lithium-powered motorcycles or separately packed batteries, have a qualified freight forwarder confirm the correct transport classification, packaging and documentation for the actual shipment.
Request the applicable UN 38.3 test summary matching the lithium battery type. This document supports battery transport verification but does not replace the other requirements for the shipment. www.iata.org
Avoid treating an estimated sailing time as a guaranteed warehouse delivery date.
Ask your customs broker to review draft documents before the supplier issues final versions.
Depending on the transaction and applicable requirements, documents may include:
SUNAT identifies the invoice or equivalent transaction document and transport document as core supporting documents, with additional documents required where applicable. sunat.gob.pe
Check consistency across the invoice, packing list and transport documents. Company names, model descriptions, quantities, weights and shipment details should match.
If seeking preferential tariff treatment, have the broker confirm eligibility and the required origin documentation before shipment. Chinese origin alone does not establish entitlement to a preferential rate. despachoanticipado.sunat.gob.pe
The factory price is only one part of the import budget.
Include the following cost categories:
| Cost category | Items to consider |
|---|---|
| Products | Motorcycles, batteries, chargers and accessories |
| Customization | Logos, colors, packaging and manuals |
| Quality checks | Sample evaluation and inspection |
| Origin logistics | Inland transport and export handling |
| International transport | Freight, insurance and applicable surcharges |
| Import clearance | Applicable duties, taxes and brokerage |
| Destination logistics | Port handling, storage and inland delivery |
| Local preparation | Assembly, inspection and delivery preparation |
| After-sales support | Spare parts, tools and warranty provision |
Ask your accountant and broker to distinguish permanent costs from taxes or payments that may be recoverable or creditable.
Calculate the cost per saleable motorcycle, including assembly and initial after-sales provision, before setting dealer prices.
Arrange spare parts before the motorcycles leave China.
An initial package may include brake parts, levers, switches, throttles, lights, controllers, chargers and selected body panels.
Request clear part numbers and compatibility information. Confirm replenishment lead times and whether key parts are shared across models.
Before selling, prepare a local inspection checklist, customer handover process and warranty procedure. Spanish-language operating and maintenance instructions can help customers use and care for their motorcycles correctly.
Before authorizing dispatch, confirm that:
Importing electric motorcycles from China to Peru requires coordination between the buyer, supplier, freight forwarder and customs broker. Clear specifications and early document checks help turn a purchase order into stock that is ready for assembly, sale and after-sales support.
Contact YOMAI for electric motorcycle catalogs, CKD solutions and wholesale quotations.
WhatsApp: +86 13337920978
Email: Lucy@yomaimoto.com
