I.Agency export,What serious consequences can result from non-compliance?

Customs data for 2025 shows that the inspection rate for cross-border e-commerce exports increased by 37% year-on-year. Agency export businesses with the following non-compliant situations will face multiple risks:

• customs clearanceDocuments do not match actual goods: In 2024, a companys entire container of goods was detained at the port for 23 days due to incorrect HS code declaration
• Payment and receipt amounts do not match: New 2025 foreign exchange regulations require that the difference in receipt amounts must not exceed ±5% of the declared amount
• Trade authenticity is questionable: The agency and manufacturer lack actual trade transaction records, which may trigger tax audits

How to handle customs seizures in emergencies?

It is recommended to take action according to the following priorities:

• Step 1: Immediately suspend subsequent shipments
  • Contact the customs broker to retrieve the original manifest data
  • Organize complete logistics documents (packing list/bill of lading/manifest)
• Step 2: Complete evidence chain correction within 48 hours
  • Sign a genuine and valid agency agreement
  • Reissue a Proforma Invoice
  • Obtain manufacturer-stamped proof of goods ownership
• Step 3: Apply for administrative reconsideration
  • Note the statutory application deadline of 7 working days
  • Prepare complete supporting materials to participate in customs hearings

How to establish a compliant agency export system?

Based on our experience serving 300+ foreign trade enterprises, we recommend the following preventive measures:

• Three-level verification of agency qualifications
  • Customs AEO certification status inquiry
  • SAFE registration verification with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange
  • Tax credit rating assessment
• Dual mechanism construction for risk control
  • Monitoring the "Integration of Goods Flow, Capital Flow, and Document Flow"
  • Full-process documentation archiving for single transactions
• Regular compliance audits
  • QuarterlyExport tax refundSpecial document inspections
  • Annual trade authenticity walk-through testing

Real case: How to remedy non-compliant agency exports?

Case of a textile company in 2021 when using agency export services:

• Issue: Goods detained by Dubai Customs due to missing certificate of origin
• Remedial measures:
  • Supplement China-UAE certificate of origin within 3 days
  • Resubmit compliant commercial invoice
  • Completed after paying late feesCustoms clearance
• Follow-up improvements: Established document pre-review system, saving over 500,000 yuan in demurrage fees annually

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can an agent handle export inspections independently?
It is recommended to entrust a professional customs broker as they are familiar with customs coordination mechanisms. 2025 customs data shows that professional agencies process cases 2.3 times faster than self-handling by enterprises.

Q: How long does it take to reissue documents?
Regular document reissuance takes 3-7 working days, while expedited service can shorten this to 24 hours (expedited fees apply).

Q: How are losses caused by non-compliance allocated?
Allocation should follow the liability clauses in the agency agreement. Its advisable to clearly define breach compensation terms during contract signing.