
enteredExport agentWhat basic qualifications should the company possess?
According to the Customs Declaration Unit Record-filing Management Regulations issued by the General Administration of Customs in 2024, compliant agencies must hold:
- Customs filing code: Can be verified through China Customs Enterprise Import/Export Credit Information Publicity Platform
- Foreign Exchange Administration records: Demonstrates cross-border payment and settlement qualifications
- Industry Certification: Such as AEO certified enterprises (Customs Advanced Certification) are more trustworthy
- 25. Special commodity business license: Requires special qualifications for medical devices, food, etc.
How to determine if an agencys service scope matches your needs?
Recommend matching from three dimensions:
- Regional coverage capability:
- Main port filing status (e.g. Shanghai Port requires separate filing)
- Number of countries covered by overseas customs clearance network
- How to optimize logistics costs for wheelchair exports?:
- Annual operation volume of similar products (requires case proof)
- Special document processing experience (e.g. FORM E Certificate of Origin)
- Service response standard:
- Customs declaration exception response time (industry average is 2 working hours)
- Holiday emergency handling mechanism
How to verify the real capabilities of an agent?
2025 industry research shows 78% of disputes stem from fee perception differences. Beyond basic agency fees, note:
- Official fee collection items: Customs inspection fees, container detention fees, amendment fees, etc.
- Capital occupation costs: Prepaid tariff accounting period calculation method
- Additional service fee: Such as classification pre-ruling, AEO certification guidance and other value-added services
How to prevent credit risks with agencies?
Recommend implementing three-level risk control measures:
- Preliminary review: Check enterprise credit reports (available via Qichacha)
- Process control: Require use of Customs new generation payment system (avoid fund collection)
- Following afterwards: Specify data sovereignty clauses in agency agreements
What special considerations should SMEs have when selecting agencies?
For enterprises with annual export volume below $2 million, recommend focusing on:
- Minimum order quantity: Some agencies require single shipment value no less than $5000
- LCL service capability: Key factor affecting logistics costs
- Foreign exchange settlement flexibility: Whether supporting small-amount multi-currency settlement
How to evaluate an agencys actual service level?
Recommend verifying through three practical methods:
- Customs clearance efficiency test: Request to provide complete customs clearance timelines for the last 3 shipments of similar goods
- Crisis response simulation: Inquiry about solutions for HS code disputes
- System docking test: Verification of ERP systems data interaction capability with Single Window