What is foreign tradeExport agentThe core services of agencies?

Professional foreign trade export agencies mainly provide four core services:

• Customs clearance services
  • HS code classification and pre-classification advice
  • customs clearanceDocument preparation and electronic declaration
  • Declaration support for special cargo (e.g., dangerous goods)
• Logistics coordination
  • Sea/air freight booking and space guarantee
  • Port operations and consolidation coordination
  • Transportation insurance configuration advice
• Tax Treatment
  • Export tax refundDeclaration and progress tracking
  • Cross-border VAT processing
  • Management of foreign exchange verification certificates
• Compliance support
  • Updates on trade country policies
  • Preparation of certificate of origin documents
  • Export control compliance review

What are the key differences between self-operated exports and agency exports?

Taking the latest 2025 customs data as an example, agency exports now account for 37.6% of Chinas total exports. The main differences are reflected in:

• Qualification RequirementsThe agency model can help companies avoid applying for import/export rights themselves
• Capital occupationAgency services can defer foreign exchange settlement by 30-60 days
• Risk BearingProfessional agencies can distribute customs clearance risks and logistics responsibilities
• Operating costsSMEs can save approximately 40% of fixed labor costs

How to evaluate the professional reliability of an agency?

It is recommended to evaluate from three dimensions:

• Certification of Qualification
  • AEO Customs Certified Enterprise Qualification
  • Member of the International Freight Agents Association (FIATA)
  • State Administration of Foreign Exchange AA-Class Enterprise Rating
• Practical operational capabilities
  • Special cargo handling cases (e.g. lithium battery exports)
  • 29. On-site operation team deployment at major ports
  • Customs system integration status with Single Window
• Service guarantees
  • Clear service level agreement (SLA)
  • 24-hour emergency response mechanism
  • Professional liability insurance coverage

What potential risks exist in agency service fees?

Pay special attention to the following fee traps:

• Hidden additional feesSuch as port congestion surcharges, bunker adjustment factors, etc.
• Exchange rate lock-in clausesConfirm foreign exchange settlement rate calculation methods in advance
• The minimum fee thresholdSome agencies set monthly minimum service fees
• Document amendment feesCustoms declaration amendment charges should be agreed upon in advance

What policy changes will occur in the foreign trade agency industry in 2025?

Based on latest policy trends, we recommend focusing on:

• General Administration of CustomsRequirements for the "Intelligent Customs Declaration 2.0" System Integration
• Cross-border e-commerce B2B export regulatory pilot expanded nationwide
• Export tax refundTechnical requirements for 98% digitalization rate
• Latest adjustments to RCEP agreement rules of origin

What key points should be noted for special cargo agency services?

Taking hazardous chemical exports as an example, compliance points include:

• MSDS documents must comply with latest GHS standards
• Verification of UN packaging certification validity
• Qualification review of transportation identification report issuers
• Destination portCustoms clearanceRequired pre-confirmations