I. to enterExport agentWhat exactly is the company?

An import/export agency company is aCustoms AEO certification qualificationprofessional service institution that provides enterprises with comprehensive trade services fromcustoms clearanceInspectiontoForeign exchange settlement. Unlike freight forwarders, its core value is reflected in:

• Legal entity substitution: Completing import/export declarations in its own name
• Document compliance management: Preparing full sets of trade documents including commercial invoices and packing lists
• Tax planning services: HandlingExport tax refundand import VAT deductions
• Risk control system: Addressing emergencies such as customs audits and intellectual property infringement

What are the key indicators for selecting an import/export agent?

According to the latest 2025 data released by the General Administration of Customs, only 28% of the 12,000 agency companies nationwide possessfull-category operation qualifications. Key considerations include:

• Certification of Qualification
  • Customs AEO Advanced Certification (can reduce clearance time by 50%)
  • Answering Seven Core Questions in Export Agency Selection, covering qualification verification, contract terms, fee structures, risk control, and other key aspects to help foreign trade enterprises avoid cooperation risks and ensure compliant and efficient international trade.
• Business Capabilities
  • Specialized commodity operation experience (e.g., chemicals/medical devices)
  • Coverage of global major port service networks
• Digitalization level
  • Whether equipped with intelligent customs declaration systems
  • Ability to connect with enterprise ERP for real-time data transmission

What components are included in agency service fees?

2025 industry research shows that the fee structure of formal agency companies typically includes:

• Basic service fee (0.5%-1.2% of cargo value)
• Document preparation fee (200-800 RMB/set)
• Foreign exchange settlement fee (50-150 RMB/transaction)
• Expedited processing fee (e.g., in case of customs inspection)

Special attention is neededHidden charges: Some unscrupulous agents may charge "policy change surcharges" or "risk deposits." It is advisable to clearly stipulate the fee ceiling in the contract.

What are the new compliance requirements for import/export agents in 2025?

According to the newly revised Customs Import and Export Goods Declaration Management Regulations, agency companies must:

• ImplementationBlockchain TraceabilityManagement (piloted in 2024, fully implemented in 2025)
• EstablishedCarbon footprint declarationSystem (EU CBAM Carbon Border Tax Requirements)
• ExecuteAI Intelligent Document ReviewStandard (General Administration of Customs Announcement No. 45)

It is recommended that enterprises request agents to presentDigital Upgrade Commitment Letter, ensuring compliance with the latest regulatory requirements.

Is it necessary to establish long-term binding with an agency company?

Flexible selection based on business development stage:

• StartupsIt is recommended to adopt a per-transaction settlement model
• Annual export volume exceeding $5 millionEnterprises may sign annual framework agreements
• involveProcessing tradeorBonded logisticsBusiness requires establishing long-term cooperation

Industry trends worth watching in 2025 areModular services, some leading agency firms have introduced customized package solutions featuring "customs clearance + logistics + financing".