Both Are Top-Tier

SGS (Société Générale de Surveillance) — Swiss-headquartered, founded 1878. The largest inspection / verification company in the world.

BV (Bureau Veritas) — French-headquartered, founded 1828. Second largest, particularly strong in marine and energy sectors.

Both perform identical work to identical standards for automotive pre-shipment inspection.

When Does Each Get Used?

  • Saudi Arabia: BV is the SASO-approved inspector for vehicle conformity. SGS also accepted.
  • Iraq: BV strongly preferred; mandatory pre-shipment conformity assessment under COSQC rules.
  • Egypt: Either, but SGS more common.
  • Nigeria: SGS required for SONCAP (Standards Organization conformity).
  • Kenya, Tanzania: SGS required for PVoC (Pre-export Verification of Conformity).
  • Latin America: SGS more common.
  • UAE: Either; ESMA-accredited inspector preferred.

What Inspection Covers (200+ Points)

Regardless of inspector:

  • Engine & Powertrain: oil leaks, sounds, ECU codes, transmission shift quality
  • Body & Exterior: paint condition, panel gaps, glass, lighting, badge & VIN match
  • Interior: upholstery, dash electronics, A/C function, sound system
  • Suspension & Steering: alignment, shock dampers, ball joints, power steering
  • Brakes & Safety: pad wear, rotor condition, ESP/ABS functionality
  • Electrical: battery health, charging system, lights, OBD diagnostic
  • Identification: VIN match, ownership documents, registration check (for used vehicles)

Cost: typically $80–$150 per vehicle, paid by seller (built into CIF) or buyer (FOB).

Report Format

Both deliver:

  • Detailed PDF report (15–30 pages with photos)
  • Pass / fail summary with severity ratings
  • VIN verification against title documents
  • Recommendation for shipment / remedial action

We forward you the full PDF before vessel sails — you approve shipment based on it.