What is importExport agentEncoding? What types does it include?

The import and export agency code serves as a company's "ID card" in international trade, primarily consisting of three major categories:

• Customs Enterprise Registration Code (10-digit): The unique identifier registered with customs, in the format such as "3101XXXXXX".
• customs clearanceUnit Filing Code (13 digits): Newly added filing certificate after the system upgrade of the General Administration of Customs in 2023.
• Unified Social Credit Code (18 digits): The legal code as stated on the business license of the enterprise

What is the correct way to query proxy codes in 2025?

According to the latest announcement from the General Administration of Customs in 2025, three verification methods are recommended:

• Option 1: Enterprise Self-Inspection
  • 登錄中國國際貿(mào)易單一窗口（www.singlewindow.cn）
  • Please navigate to "Enterprise Qualifications" - "General Customs Enterprise Qualifications" to inquire.
• Option 2: Official Customs Verification
  • 訪問海關(guān)總署官網(wǎng)（www.customs.gov.cn）
  • Use the "Enterprise Information Publicity Platform" to search by entering the company name.
• Option 3: Third-party verification service
  • Verify the company's status through platforms such as Tianyancha/Qichacha.
  • Please select the search results labeled as "Customs Registered Enterprise."

Why can't the code be queried? What should I do?

If any query anomalies occur, it is recommended to follow the troubleshooting process below:

• Scenario 1: Newly registered enterprise data not synchronized
  • The customs system data update cycle is 3 working days.
  • It is recommended to check again next week.
• Scenario 2: Abnormal Enterprise Qualification
  • Check whether the annual report has not been submitted on time (before June 30 each year).
  • Check whether the customs credit rating has been downgraded.
• Scenario 3: Incorrect Input Information
  • Verify whether the corporate name contains special characters such as parentheses.
  • Verify whether digits 9 to 17 of the unified code match the registration location code.

Will an expired import-export code affect business operations? How to renew it?

According to the "Regulations on the Customs Declaration Entity Registration and Filing Management," enterprises should note:

• Long-term effective scenario: Enterprises operating normally with good credit standing
• Scenarios requiring updates:
  • Change of Company Name/Address/Legal Representative (to be processed within 30 days)
  • Major adjustments to registered capital or equity structure
• Renewal Process:
  • Log in to the Single Window to submit a change request.
  • Please upload the new version of the business license and other supporting documents.
  • The code status will be automatically updated after customs approval.

How to verify the authenticity of the other party's code when authorizing an agent?

It is recommended to implement a triple verification mechanism:

• Step 1: Basic Information Verification
  • Please request the other party to provide the "Customs Filing Receipt" with an official seal.
  • Compare the receipt number with the information published on the Single Window platform.
• Step 2: Business Capability Verification
  • Query the customs credit rating of an enterprise (such as AEO certification, etc.)
  • Verify the customs declaration category (whether possessing corresponding qualifications)
• Step 3: Risk Warning Investigation
  • Check the "List of Dishonest Enterprises" on the General Administration of Customs.
  • Confirmation of no outstanding administrative penalty records.