How to determine the professional reliability of a shipping agency?

When selecting an agency, it is essential to verify the following:

• Business qualifications
  • Check the "International Freight Forwarder Filing Form" and customs AEO certification status.
  • Confirm whether the qualification for handling special cargo such as hazardous materials/cold chain is available (if applicable).
• Experience in industry
  • Please provide export cases for similar categories of goods in the past two years.
  • Confirm the success rate data for resolving destination port customs clearance disputes.

What are the most common mistakes that occur during the cargo declaration process?

After the General Administration of Customs strengthens intelligent document review in 2025, special attention must be paid to the following:

• HS code misclassification rate increased by 37%(According to 2024 import and export data)
• Loss of Tariff Due to Inconsistency Between Certificate of Origin and FORM E Information
• Special cargo such as lithium batteries/chemical products has not undergone UN packaging certification as required.

How to avoid hidden fee traps?

It is recommended to clearly specify in the contract:

• Peak seasonAdditional feesCalculation standards and trigger conditions
• The party responsible for storage fees when goods are not picked up at the destination port
• Allocation mechanism for expenses such as container lifting fees and unpacking fees incurred during customs inspection.

How to effectively protect your rights when a transportation dispute occurs?

Three preparations need to be made in advance:

• Keep completeGoods Handover and Inspection Record(Including photos/videos)
• Request agency to provideThe MaritimeTranslation of the Terms and Conditions on the Reverse Side of the Bill of Lading (en-US)
• At the time of enrollment, clearly specifyClaim liability trigger conditions

What are the new impacts of international trade policies in 2025?

Two major changes that require special attention:

• The EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is expanded to include textile categories.
• Specific Implementation Differences of RCEP's Rules of Origin Accumulation in ASEAN Countries

What common cognitive biases should we be wary of?

• Myth 1: The lower the agent's quote, the better the deal.

  The actual assessment should comprehensively consider: whether the Terminal Handling Charge (THC) is included, the adjustment frequency of the Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF), and 18 other cost elements.

• Misconception 2: Documentation can be supplemented after the fact.

  Starting in 2025, countries such as Brazil and Turkey have already implemented this policy.Mandatory electronic certificate verification before shipment

It is recommended that companies request a completeFull Link Service Flow Diagram, and arrange on-site inspections of their customs declaration operating systems and warehousing facilities. For high-value goods, prioritize obtaining insurance coverage.ICC (A) ClausesAll-risk insurance for the entire journey.