
GoodsExport agentWhat core functions does the company mainly undertake?
ProfessionalExport agentThe company providesFull - link trade service solutions, specifically including:
- Document preparation and compliance review (commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, etc.)
- International logisticsSolution design and implementation
- Customs declarationAnd tax compliance handling
- Trade financing and foreign exchange settlement services
- Risk early warning and dispute resolution support
According to the latest data of the General Administration of Customs in 2025, the customs clearance efficiency of export enterprises using professional agency services has increased by an average of 42%, and the error rate of documents has decreased by 67%.
How to assess the professional qualifications of an export agency?
It is recommended to comprehensively evaluate from three dimensions:
- Legal qualification certification:
- International Freight Forwarder Recordation Certificate (the validity period should cover 2025)
- Customs AEO Certified Enterprise Qualification
- Foreign Exchange Administration records
- Service capacity verification:
- Proportion of self-owned customs clearance teams at major ports
- Operation cases of special goods (dangerous goods/cold chain/precision instruments)
- Digitalizationcustoms clearanceSystem access situation
- Industry reputation endorsement:
- Member unit of China International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFA)
- Strategic cooperation qualifications with major shipping companies/airlines
What hidden costs are included in the export agency service fees?
Special attention should be paid to the following cost components:
- Basic service fee:Usually charged at 0.8% - 1.5% of the cargo value (industry reference standard in 2025)
- Emergency handling fee:Customs inspection surcharge, bill amendment fee, port demurrage fee, etc.
- Capital cost:Foreign exchange hedging margin, tax refund advance interest
- Technical service fee:EDI data docking fee, annual system usage fee
Request the Agency to provideExact cost checklist21., clearly define the service boundary and liability division.
What unique advantages do new - type digital agency companies have?
Leading enterprises in 2025 generally have the following characteristics:
- AI intelligent bill review system (error rate less than 0.3%)
- Blockchain traceability platform (covering all logistics nodes)
- Real-time tariff calculator (supporting 28 free trade agreements such as RCEP)
- Visual tracking system (with precision up to container door opening and closing records)
However, it should be noted that the degree of digitalization should not replace the judgment of professionals, and experienced customs experts are still needed to participate in complex businesses.
How to prevent cooperation risks with agency companies?
Recommend establishing a three-tier risk control mechanism:
- At the legal level:
- Review the compensation clauses in the agency agreement (it is recommended to stipulate a compensation liability of 120% of the cargo value)
- Confirm the coverage of liability insurance (at least including 5 million yuan per order)
- Financial aspect:
- Set up a dedicated joint account.
- Require the provision of bank credit certificates.
- Goods aspect:
- Purchase full - course transportation insurance (including special clauses such as war risk and strike risk).
- Implement double - person supervision for loading and unloading at key nodes.
How to effectively safeguard rights when encountering agency disputes?
It is recommended to adopt a four - step processing procedure:
- Immediately freeze the original relevant documents.
- Preserve evidence through professional institutions (it is recommended to choose authoritative institutions such as CCIC).
- Apply to the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade for commercial mediation.
- Initiate litigation procedures in the maritime court when necessary (pay attention to the 3 - year statute of limitations).
Special reminder: The new version of the Regulations on the Administration of the International Freight Forwarding Industry in 2025 has strengthened the information disclosure obligation of the agent. It is recommended to pay close attention to the legislative dynamics.