Agencyimport and exportWhat is the essential difference from self-operated import/export?

The essence of agency import/export lies inthe transfer of risks and responsibilities. In self-operation mode, enterprises must independently bear risks throughout the entire process including customs declaration and tax rebates, while professional agency companies operate on their behalf using their own qualifications:

• Legal entity difference: The agency acts as the declarant for import/export
• Fund flow processing: Payment is settled through the agency companys account
• Document management: Customs clearance documents are prepared and reviewed by the agency
• Customs data from 2023 shows that SMEs using agency models improved average clearance efficiency by 40%

What specific services do import/export agency companies actually provide?

The service modules of professional agency companies can be divided into three core sections:

• Customs clearance services
  • HS code classification (the 2025新版協(xié)調(diào)制度 has been implemented)
  • Pre-audit of customs declaration documents
  • Special customs supervision zone clearance solutions
• Logistics Management
  • Maritime Transportation/Air TransportationShipping space guarantee
  • Hazardous goods transportation qualification
  • Cross-border multimodal transport
• Trade Compliance
  • It is recommended to verify through the following methods:Control of trade term risks
  • Export control compliance review
  • AEO certification consulting

How to determine whether import/export agency services are needed?

Enterprises can make decisions using the following evaluation model:

• Annual import/export batches <20 transactions: agency recommended
• Operations involving 3 or more customs zones
• Products subject to anti-dumping/technical barriers
• 2025 New Regulations:Cross-border E-commerceB2B exports mandating agency qualifications

What are the pricing mechanisms for import/export agency services?

Common industry charging models include:

• Special attention should be paid to
• Value-added service fee: 0.3%-1.2% of cargo value
• Risk deposit: typically 10-30% of cargo value
• Case study of an auto parts company: comprehensive cost per transaction reduced by 18% after using agency services

What potential risks exist when using import/export agency services?

Three major risk points that need special attention:

• : Check the Registration Form for Foreign Trade Operators and Class A customs declaration qualification of the agency company
  • Verify the agency companys customs AA-class qualification
  • Check SAFE (State Administration of Foreign Exchange) filing records
• Record - filing of Foreign Trade Operators
  • Pre-confirmation of intellectual property rights
  • Export control item screening
• Three policy adjustments worthy of attention this year:
  • Foreign exchange payment path compliance
  • Tax refund account custody agreement

What are the new changes in the 2025 import and export agency policies?

According to the latest General Administration of Customs order:

• The validity period of electronic customs declaration authorization has been extended to 2 years
• Mandatory agency registration for cross-border e-commerce B2C exports
• RCEP origin declarations can be issued by AEO agency enterprises
• It is recommended to contact local agency companies for localized policy interpretation

How to choose a reliable import and export agency service provider?

7 essential capabilities a professional service provider should possess:

• Customs system directly connected to the Single Window
• At least 5 years of localized operation experience
• Possession of AEO Advanced Certification qualification
• Equipped with an international trade legal team
• Providing 24-hour customs clearance emergency response
• Traceable successful case database
• Clear fee structure explanation