What isExport Agent ServicesCertificate number? What forms are recognized by customs?

The export agent certificate number is a 13-digit code issued by customs (e.g., 5312202500123). The current system in 2025 includes three statutory forms:

• Paper-based certificate: Must be affixed with the official seal of the agency enterprise and the customs inspection seal.
• Electronic version certificate: PDF encrypted files downloaded through the Single Window for International Trade
• Data association proof: Electronically generated vouchers automatically bound to the customs declaration number (newly added in Announcement No. 79 of the General Administration of Customs in 2023)

II. How to verify the validity of an export agency certificate number?

Three available verification methods for 2025:

• Single Window System Verification:
  • Please log in to the China International Trade Single Window.
  • Enter the "Customs Clearance Data Query" module
  • Please enter the 13-digit certificate number and the enterprise credit code.
• Verify on the official website of the General Administration of Customs: Monthly Updated List of Valid Certification Numbers for Public Disclosure
• Query on third-party certification platform: Verification services provided by financial institutions such as Sinosure.

3. How long is the validity period of the certification number? Are there any new changes in 2025?

According to the latest regulations from the General Administration of Customs in 2025:

• Regular goods: Valid for 180 days from the date of issuance.
• Goods in special customs supervision areas: The validity period is shortened to 90 days.
• Dangerous goods: Must complete customs clearance within 30 days (Revised Edition of Hazardous Chemicals Management Regulations 2024)

IV. How to remedy an incorrect agent certification number on the customs declaration form?

It should be handled on a case-by-case basis:

• Errors discovered before customs declaration:
  • Please immediately contact the customs office at the place of declaration to apply for data withdrawal.
  • When re-declaring, indicate "Amended Declaration" in the remarks column.
• The goods were found to be incorrect after being released.:
  • Submit the "Statement of Circumstances" and original supporting documents to Customs.
  • Apply for data correction through the "Customs Affairs Contact Form" system.
  • For cases involving tax refunds, the tax authorities must be notified simultaneously.

V. How to Prevent the Risk of Certificate Numbers When Entrusting an Agent for Export?

It is recommended to take the following measures:

• Select an AEO-certified agency company: The error rate of customs-certified enterprises is 37% lower than the industry average.
• Clarify responsibility allocation: The contract stipulates the data verification process and timeline.
• Establish a dual-review mechanism: Enterprises conduct secondary verification on the single window platform independently.
• Retain communication records: All proof number handovers must be confirmed in writing.

6. What is the relationship between the certificate number and the customs declaration number? How can they be cross-referenced for inquiry?

By 2025, the customs system has achieved automatic binding of two numbers:

• Enter any number in the "Customs Data Query" interface of the Single Window.
• The system will display the complete associated data chain, including:
  • Customs declaration status
  • Cargo release time
  • Tax refund associated records

VII. What remedial measures are available when the agent certification number becomes invalid?

There are two processing scenarios:

• Not exceeding the claim time limit:
  • Apply for an extension (up to 30 days) from the original issuing customs authority.
  • Submit the proof of non-shipment of goods and the agency agreement.
• The claim period has expired.:
  • A new certificate number needs to be reapplied for.
  • The original certificate number is void and requires cancellation procedures.
  • For declared data, a data change is required.

8. How to prove the authenticity of the agency relationship during customs inspection?

It is recommended to prepare three sets of supporting documents:

• Basic documents: Original notarized power of attorney
• Fund Certificate: Agency fee payment records and invoices
• Operation log: Cargo Handover Form, Transport Authorization Letter, etc.