
ExportedCustoms clearanceMust documents be filled out by an agent?
According to the 2025 revised edition of theCustoms declarationAccording to the Management Measures, export enterprises can declare independently or entrust an agent. But note:Agent services are more advantageous in the following situations:
- When exporting new product categories for the first time, agents can assist with HS code confirmation
- Special regulated goods (such as hazardous materials, food) require professional filing
- Multinational transit trade requires coordination of different customs declaration rules
What consequences can incorrect HS code entry cause?
2025 customs audit cases show that code errors have become the main cause of clearance delays. Typical risks include:
- Goods Detention: A company mistakenly declared "solar panels" as "photovoltaic panels," resulting in a 28-day cargo hold by Dubai Customs.
- Tariff losses: Wrong codes may trigger higher tax rates, with differences needing to be paid by exporters
- Credit downgrade: Accumulating 3 code errors will affect enterprise AEO certification eligibility
What are the latest requirements for packing list preparation?
According to WCO international standards effective in 2025, packing lists must include:
- Cargo dimensions (L×W×H) accurate to centimeters
- Packaging material codes (e.g. GW-wooden case, CT-carton)
- Split-loading diagrams (for combined containers)
- Hazardous materials UN numbers (if applicable)
How do agency companies ensure compliant declaration data?
Professional agents should have the following safeguard mechanisms:
- Three-tier review process:
- Junior sales staff data entry
- Customs manager compliance review
- System automatic verification (connected to customs database)
- Real-time updates to customs declaration rules database for 60+ countries worldwide
- Establish traceable electronic records for each shipment
How to handle customs inquiries when encountered?
Customs query rate in 2025 increased by 12% year-on-year, suggesting the following response strategies:
- Emergency response: Agents must submit situation reports within 2 hours
- Evidence chain preparation:
- Scanned copies of certificate of origin
- Production process flow charts
- Third-party inspection report
- Prepay deposit to secure prior cargo release
How to choose a reliable customs clearance agent?
Recommended assessment from five dimensions:
- Qualification review: Confirm possession of AA-class customs clearance qualification certified by General Administration of Customs
- System capacity: Check if equipped with intelligent classification system (e.g., HSPRO 4.0)
- The response speed.: Require provision of 24/7 Chinese-English service
- Insurance coverage: Verify inclusion of declaration error liability insurance
- Case verification: Request successful customs clearance cases of similar products
What precautions should be taken for electronic declarations?
Major trading countries in 2025 have fully implemented electronic customs clearance, requiring special attention to:
- File format: PDF/A-3 format (with digital signature)
- Data encryption: Compliant with ISO/IEC 27001 standard
- Declaration deadline: US ISF filing must be completed 48 hours before loading
- Exception handling: Retain system receipt number for future reference
Will modifying clearance documents incur additional fees?
Different situations require different handling methods:
- Pre-shipment modifications: Agents typically provide one free modification
- Post-arrival amendments: May incur customs amendment fees (approximately USD200-500)
- Data corrections within 7 days of declaration can apply for simplified procedures
- Recommend specifying modification cost responsibilities in contracts