How exactly are export agency customs declaration services charged? These 7 questions will help you avoid pricing traps.

What are the main charging models for customs declaration agency services?

Currently, there are two mainstream charging methods in the market:Fixed service fee modelandPay-as-you-go billing model. Fixed fees are typically applicable to enterprises with an annual export volume exceeding 500 shipments, with monthly fees ranging from 8,000 to 20,000 yuan (subject to fluctuations based on port and shipment volume). Per-shipment charges are determined by the complexity of customs declaration for each individual shipment, with basic customs declaration fees ranging from 200 to 800 yuan per shipment.

2. What specific items are included in the customs declaration fees?

• Basic Customs Declaration Fee: Including the preparation of declaration documents, system entry, and customs document review.
• Document Processing Fee:
  • An additional charge of 80-150 RMB will apply for special certificates such as commodity inspection/phytosanitary inspection.
  • It is recommended to verify through the following methods:Production cost: 50-100 yuan
• Exception handling feeCustoms inspection cooperation fee starting from 500 RMB per instance.

3. Why is there a huge difference in quotes from different agents?

According to data from the General Administration of Customs in 2023, the price disparity for customs brokerage services nationwide can reach up to 300%. The key differences lie in:Port operation costs(such as Shanghai Port being 40% higher than inland ports),Enterprise Compliance Rating(AEO-certified enterprises can enjoy a 15-20% reduction in fees.)、Value - added Services(Pre-classification, tariff consultation, etc.).

IV. Under what circumstances will additional fees be incurred?

• Storage/Unloading Fees After Customs Inspection (Starting from RMB 2,000 per day)
• Amendment fees due to declaration errors (300-1000 RMB per instance).
• Holiday/Night Emergency Service Fee (starting from 200% of base fee)

V. How to Effectively Compare Prices Without Falling into Traps?

Recommend requestingComparison table of expense details, with a focus on comparing:

• Does it include the EDI transmission fee (approximately 50 yuan per ticket)?
• Calculation Method for Inspection Coordination Fee
• Annual Customs Declaration Error Rate Commitment (High-quality agents should be below 3%)

6. Are there any risks associated with under-declaration of value?

In the cases of declaration violations uncovered by customs authorities across multiple regions in 2024, 60% involved ultra-low-price customs declaration services. Such agents may:Transfer the risk of commercial misdeclaration,Using attached qualifications,Concealing the true product nameIt is recommended to verify the original copy of the agent's "Customs Declaration Unit Registration Certificate."

7. How to Handle Value-Added Tax Invoices More Cost-Effectively?

A legitimate agent should provide a 6% VAT special invoice. Be cautious of suppliers who require "additional tax points." For example: a quoted price of 300 yuan including tax vs. 250 yuan + 8% tax points results in actual costs of 300 yuan and 270 yuan respectively, requiring careful calculation.

(The data in this article is sourced from the General Administration of Customs 2023 Annual Report and the International Freight Forwarders Association 2025 Industry White Paper. Specific charges are subject to the latest port policies and service provider quotations.)