Comprehensive Analysis of Common Issues in Import and Export Agency: How Can Enterprises Avoid Trade Risks?

Agencyimport and exportWhat exactly is the difference compared to self-operated import and export?

The core difference between the two lies inBusiness entity qualificationsandRisk - bearing methods:

• Qualification Requirements: Self-operated businesses must obtain customs import and export rights, while the agent is responsible for customs clearance qualifications.
• Division of Responsibilities: Under the agency model, the "Consignor" field on the customs declaration form displays the name of the agency company.
• Financial Risk: Agency companies generally do not advance payment for goods, while self-operation requires establishing a foreign exchange account.

What key qualifications should be checked when selecting an agency company?

Key compliance requirements for 2025 focus on:

• Basic Qualifications:
  • Customs AEO Certification Certificate (preferably Advanced Certified Enterprises)
  • Foreign Exchange Administration Directory Registration Certificate
• Special qualifications:
  • Handling hazardous chemicals requires a hazardous materials business license.
  • Food products require importer registration for food recipients.

What hidden costs are typically included in agency fees?

In addition to explicit costs such as customs clearance fees and transportation fees, special attention should be paid to:

• Exchange Rate Fluctuation Margin (Involving Forward Contracts)FX Settlement AgencyTime)
• Demurrage/Detention Cost Allocation Mechanism
• Customs inspection derivative fees (container lifting fee, yard fee, etc.)
• It is recommended to verify through the following methods:Additional signature service fee

How to assess a customs clearance agency's capability?

a full - process cost listCustoms clearance data for the past 6 months:

• Average customs clearance time (general cargo should be ≤3 working days)
• Inspection rate (typically <5% for high-quality enterprises)
• Dispute resolution cases involving classification (particularly those involving HS code adjustments)

How to ensure the ownership of goods under agency mode?

Essential measuresTriple legal documents:

• The agency agreement clearly stipulates the ownership clause of the goods.
• The consignee on the bill of lading shows the actual buyer.
• The payment voucher is consistent with the subject of the trade contract.

Under what circumstances may customs deposits be triggered?

Announcement No. 58 of the General Administration of Customs in 2025 stipulates that the following circumstances are subject to payment:

• Temporarily imported and exported goods
• Goods subject to anti-dumping duties
• Goods with doubtful classification/valuation
• Follow-up supervision of duty-free goods

What should small and medium-sized enterprises pay special attention to when selecting an agent?

It is recommended to prioritize:

• ProvideFully Visualized Process SystemAgent of
• Support small-batch, multi-batch operations
• With a localized customs clearance team
• Provide trade financing solutions

How to evaluate the risk control system of an agency company?

Focus on three key mechanisms:

• Compliance review mechanism (especially U.S. EAR, EU dual-use items)
• Country Risk Assessment System for Trade
• Emergency Response Plan for Force Majeure

Cross-border E-commerceWhat kind of agency services are needed for transformation?

The new agent should possess:

• Cross-border e-commerce comprehensive pilot zone customs clearance experience
• Overseas warehouse system integration capability
• Return Goods Handling Plan
• Operation records for regulatory codes 9710/9810

What new opportunities does agency service have under the RCEP agreement?

High-quality agency companies should provide:

• Guidelines for the Application of the Rules of Origin Cumulation
• Comparative Analysis of Tariff Concessions Among Member States
• Handling of Approved Exporter Qualification Agency
• Suggestions for Optimizing Regional Value Chains

What responsibilities does an agency company bear in the event of a trade dispute?

Please note:Contractual Liability Boundary:

• Losses due to port delays caused by documentation errors
• Administrative penalties arising from false declarations
• Scope of Compensation for Cargo Damage in the Transportation Process
• Joint and Several Liability for Intellectual Property Infringement

How to Choose an Intelligent Agent Service Provider in the Digital Era?

Evaluate the following technical competencies:

• Application of Blockchain Traceability System
• AI intelligent classification accuracy rate
• Real-time monitoring of global trade data
• Automated compliance document generation feature