How do you test the units?
Every used unit we sell goes through a 27-point bench test before it's packed, and the result is logged against its serial number. Units are graded A, B, or C based on age and test outcome, and you get the run-test video before you release final payment. Nothing leaves our warehouse untested — new white-label units are checked for function and packaging integrity, used units get the full mechanical and electrical check.
Why this concern is real
Used appliance exports have a bad history in Lagos, Tema, and Mombasa markets: containers arrive with units that don't power on, compressors that seized in transit, or machines that were never tested at all — just cosmetically cleaned and shipped. Buyers who paid 100% upfront have no leverage once the container is on the water. If a supplier tells you "it works" with no serial number, no video, and no grading system, you're buying blind.
How it actually works
A proper pre-export test covers power draw, motor function, timer and control operation, drum/tub balance (for washers), heating element output (for water heaters and microwaves), fan speed stages, and physical housing condition — that's the basis of our 27 checkpoints. Each unit gets a serial number recorded against its test result, so if a claim comes up later, we can pull the exact record. Grading follows test outcome plus age: Grade A units are 3 years old or less and carry a 90-day warranty; Grade B units are up to 5 years old with a 30-day warranty; Grade C units are tested working but sold as-is, no warranty, priced accordingly. Third-party inspectors — SGS, Bureau Veritas, or Intertek — can re-verify any batch at your cost before loading.
How we handle it at Apex Home Export
- Every used unit is pulled from our 184-factory pre-scanned supplier pool and run through the 27-point bench test on arrival at our Guangzhou facility.
- Test result and serial number are logged and matched to the unit before it's staged for loading.
- Unit is graded A, B, or C based on age and test outcome — this grade is stated on your invoice and packing list, not just verbally.
- At loading, we record a run-test video showing the units powering on and operating, plus the container loading itself.
- You receive this video and the Bill of Lading copy before your final 70% balance is due — this is our "video before balance" rule, no exceptions.
- If you want independent verification, SGS, Bureau Veritas, or Intertek can inspect the batch before it's sealed — you cover their fee, we give them full access.
What you should do before you pay
- Ask for the serial number log and grade breakdown (A/B/C count) for your specific order, not a generic sample sheet.
- Confirm in writing that you'll receive the run-test video before the 70% balance is released.
- If ordering Grade A or B units, get the warranty terms (90-day or 30-day) written into your Proforma Invoice.
- Book a third-party inspector if your order value justifies the cost — we don't discourage this.
- Never send full payment before loading; our structure is 30% deposit, 70% against B/L copy plus video, and only to the corporate account matching your signed contract entity.
Bottom line: we test, log, grade, and film every unit before you pay the balance — so you're checking our work, not trusting our word. Message us on WhatsApp with your product list and we'll walk you through the test records for that category.