What specific services does import/export agency actually include?

Professional agency services provideEnd-to-end trade service solutions, mainly including:

• Document processing: Preparation of 30+ types of trade documents including proforma invoice, packing list, certificate of origin
• Customs clearance services: HS code classification,customs clearanceInspection declaration, license application
• Logistics coordination: International transportation solution design, cargo insurance arrangement
• Tax Treatment:Export tax refundDeclaration, import VAT payment on behalf
• Compliance management: Trade barrier response, AEO certification guidance

How to judge whether an agency company is professional and reliable?

Proposal to passSix dimensionsEvaluation:

• Qualification verification: Whether holding the Customs Registration Certificate issued by the General Administration of Customs
• Case study: Requires providing customs clearance cases of similar products within the last 3 months
• System integration: Whether equipped with an ERP system directly connected to the Single Window
• Emergency capability: On-site handling response time during sudden inspections
• Industry reputation: Annual credit rating from China Customs Brokers Association
• Service network: Whether maintains on-site offices at major ports/bonded zones

What fees are required for import/export agency?

2025 agency service fee structure typically includes:

• Basic service fee: Charged at 0.8%-1.5% of cargo value (including customs declaration and documentation)
• Special service fee:
  • Expedited customs clearance: RMB500-2000 per shipment
  • Customs inspection accompaniment: Starting from RMB1500 per instance
• Third-party fees: Port charges, terminal handling fees, etc. reimbursed at actual cost

Can trade risks be avoided through import/export agency?

Professional agencies can reduce72% of trade compliance risks, but note:

• Division of responsibilities: Legal liability for customs declaration errors must be clearly specified in contracts
• Document review: Recommend maintaining a dual-signature confirmation mechanism for key documents
• Exchange rate locking: Bulk transactions should include agreed solutions for exchange rate fluctuations
• Insurance coverage: Recommend purchasing freight forwarder liability insurance (minimum coverage USD500,000)

What important changes will there be in agency services in 2025?

Special attention requiredThree policy adjustments:

• General Administration of Customs requires full implementation of digital declaration by 2025 (original paper manuals must be converted before June)
• New export control measures added for 37 categories of goods (including semiconductor materials and rare earth processed products)
• Cross-border e-commerce B2B export single shipment limit increased to USD500,000

Which is more cost-effective: self-handling or entrusting an agent?

According to 2025 industry data estimates:

• Annual export volume < USD3 million: Agency costs 18-25% lower
• Special commodity categories: Hazardous chemicals agency processing time 3-5 working days faster
• New market development: Agency companies can save over 60% of market access certification time

What are the common misunderstandings in choosing import/export agency?

Special attention is neededThree cognitive biases:

• Misconception 1: Believing agency companies can guarantee 100% customs inspection clearance
• Misconception 2: Equating FOB designated freight forwarders with full-service agencies
• Misconception 3: Overlooking agency companies intellectual property filing review obligations