Chinese machinery manufacturers generally provide installation and commissioning (standard for large equipment or complete production lines, as required by the GB/T 16784-2025 general rules for after-sales service). There are three methods: ① Manufacturer sends engineers on-site (for large equipment/production lines; airfare and accommodation costs are billed separately); ② Remote guidance (video support + remote PLC commissioning; free for small equipment); ③ Local agents/service providers (overseas service centers for major exporters). Regarding costs: commissioning labor is usually included in the contract, while travel expenses are charged based on actual costs—contracts clearly specify “installation and commissioning obligations” and “cost allocation.”
I.
On-site Installation and Commissioning
Scope: Standard for large equipment/complete production lines (on-site installation, synchronization, and trial production); Process: Engineer arrival → Installation → Commissioning → Trial run → Acceptance sign-off (standard practice: departure occurs only after acceptance); Costs: Commissioning labor is often included in the contract price, while engineer travel expenses (airfare/accommodation/visas) are billed separately based on actual costs; Duration: 3–15 days depending on equipment complexity—on-site commissioning for large equipment is industry standard (contracts specify who bears the travel costs).
II. Remote Commissioning Guidance
Method: WhatsApp/WeChat video calls combined with telephone guidance (e.g., e-shion/taokron: remote support first, followed by on-site visits if necessary); PLC Remote Access: Parameter adjustment and troubleshooting via IIoT gateways (most 2026-model units feature VPN remote access); Suitability: Small or standard equipment, simple installation (ready to use upon power-up); Cost: Primarily free—a “remote-first” service model (most issues resolved via video, minimizing machine downtime).
III.
Costs and Contract Terms
Free vs. Paid: Labor costs for commissioning are usually included (in the one-time equipment price); Travel Expenses: Airfare, accommodation, and visa fees are borne by the buyer (industry standard) or as stipulated in the contract; Installation Requirements: Buyer provides site, utilities (water/electricity), and foundation (see contract annex); Test Materials: Materials used for commissioning (mutually agreed upon)—contracts must clearly outline “installation and commissioning obligations,” “cost allocation,” and “mutual responsibilities” (travel expenses are a common source of disputes).
IV.
Overseas Service Network
Major Exporters: Overseas service centers/local agents (e.g., Zoomlion Europe’s multi-tier spare parts and training network); Regional Engineers: Stationed overseas engineers/authorized service providers (e.g., stonecutting sector: resident engineers in key markets); Acceptance: SAT (Site Acceptance Test)—final payment made only after successful on-site acceptance—major machinery exporters with overseas networks ensure accessible on-site service (buyers should prioritize manufacturers with local service providers).
V. Points for Overseas Buyers to Note
1. Specify commissioning obligations in the contract (including the allocation of travel expenses); 2. Prioritize remote support before on-site visits (to save on travel costs); 3. Sign off on acceptance (sign for acceptance and pay the final balance only after successful commissioning); 4. Utilize local service providers (choose manufacturers with overseas service networks); 5. Include training (train operators concurrently during commissioning)—Chinese machinery manufacturers offer installation and commissioning via three methods (on-site, remote, or local agents);
ensure the contract clearly outlines cost responsibilities and stipulates that the final balance is paid only after successful acceptance.
