InExport Agent ServicesWhat are the core functions that the company actually undertakes?

ProfessionalImport and exportAgency companies primarily offer four core services:Customs clearance logistics,Trade Compliance,Fund SettlementAndRisk ManagementSpecifically, it includes:

• Product Classification and Customs Declaration Document Preparation
• Application for Import/Export License (if applicable)Medical DevicesRegistration Certificate,?3C certification?Trade dispute settlement mechanisms
• International Transportation Solution Design and Execution
• Foreign exchange verification andTax RebatesAgency
• Trade Compliance Review (including Rules of Origin, Anti-dumping Investigation Response)

What are the key decision-making points between self-operated import/export and entrusted agency?

According to the latest customs data for 2025, enterprises with an annual export value below 5 million RMB can save approximately 35% in operational costs by opting for an agency model. Key considerations include:

• Business Scale: It is recommended to use an agent for shipments with a single batch value below USD 100,000.
• Commodity Characteristics: For chemicals and medical devices subject to special supervision, priority should be given to selecting agents.
• Talent pool: A minimum of three licensed customs brokers is required for self-operation.

How are the agency service fees structured for 2025?

The current agency fee models are primarily divided into three types:

• Basic Service Package(0.8%-1.5% of cargo value): Includes customs clearance, documentation, and foreign exchange settlement.
• Value-added Service Items:
  • Special document certification: 2000-5000 RMB per copy
  • Trade remedy case response: 50,000-200,000 yuan/case
• Risk guarantee: A charge of 0.5% of the cargo value (refundable) will be applied.

How to Identify a Compliant Import and Export Agency Company?

The following three core qualifications must be verified:

• Registered with the General Administration of CustomsCertificate of Registration for Customs Declaration Enterprise
• Foreign exchange administration issuedTrade Foreign Exchange Receipts and Payments Enterprise DirectoryRegistration
• Approved by the Ministry of CommerceToforeign tradeRecord-filing for foreign trade operators

After the industry rectification in 2023, new additionsInternational trade compliance system certification(ITCS) has become a standard feature for premium agents.

What legal risks should be particularly noted in agency cooperation?

Recent cases of international trade disputes indicate the need to focus on preventing:

• Declaration of Responsibility Attribution: It is essential to clarify the obligations of the party providing customs declaration data.
• Joint Liability for Intellectual Property: Request the agent to provide the brand authorization verification records.
• Foreign exchange compliance risk: Ensure that the agency company possesses a Class A foreign exchange management qualification.

It is recommended to clearly stipulate in contractsPre-classification Dispute Resolution MechanismAndCustoms Audit Response Clauses.

What are the innovative models of agency services in the digital era?

By 2025, mainstream agents have achieved:

• Blockchain Document Management: Track customs clearance progress in real time
• AI Compliance Review System: Automatic identification of controlled items
• Trade Big Data Early Warning: Predict policy changes in the destination country 90 days in advance

Some leading companies have launchedPay-as-you-go SaaS platform, customers can independently combine the customs clearance, logistics, and tax refund modules.

How can small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) evaluate the cost-effectiveness of agency services?

It is recommended to adopt a three-dimensional evaluation system:

• Time Cost: The average customs clearance time has been reduced by over 20%.
• Capital Turnover: The tax refund cycle is controlled within 45 working days.
• Risk cost: Provide complete and compliant traceability records

According to the 2024 General Administration of Customs enterprise survey data, high-quality agents can help enterprisesThe trade dispute rate decreased by 62%..