What is agency import/export? How does it differ from self-operated import/export?

Agency import and export refers to the practice where a company entrusts qualifiedCustoms AEO certificationandInternational Trade QualificationA professional company that handles the entire process of goods clearance, transportation, settlement, and other services on behalf of clients. Compared to self-operated import and export, the main differences are reflected in three aspects:

• Division of rights and responsibilities: The agent does not own the goods, but only serves as a service provider.
• Funding risk: The principal shall bear the risk of trade payments independently.
• Compliance responsibility:customs clearanceThe single legal document shall still be submitted by the entrusting party as the declarant.

What specific services does an import and export agency company provide?

Professional agency services cover the entire international trade chain. The latest service list for 2025 includes:

• Customs services:
  • HS Code Classification (in compliance with the 2025 version of the Harmonized System)
  • Application for RCEP Certificate of Origin
  • Application for Customs Advance Ruling
• Logistics Management:
  • Multimodal transport solution design
  • Special transportation of dangerous goods
  • Cross-border e-commerce logistics solutions
• Financial support:
  • Document Examination under Letter of Credit (in compliance with the 2025 revised version of UCP600)
  • Supply chain financing
  • Exchange Rate Risk Management

How are agency import and export fees calculated? Are there any hidden costs?

The 2025 industry-standard fee model includes:

• Basic Service Costs: Charged at 0.8%-1.2% of the cargo value (bulk commodities calculated differently).
• Additional service fee:
  • Expedited customs clearance: RMB 500-2000 per shipment
  • Special Document Authentication: Actual consulate fees + service charges
• Risk Warning: Compliance agencies should clearly disclose the following potential costs:
  • Demurrage charges caused by customs inspection
  • Trade sanctions list screening fee
  • Special Service Fee for Compliance Training

Why is import and export agency considered the "trade accelerator" for small and medium-sized enterprises?

According to data from the General Administration of Customs in 2023, small and medium-sized enterprises using agency services saved an average of:

• The customs clearance time is reduced by 42% (compared to self-declaration).
• The error rate in documentation decreased by 78%.
• A 15-20% reduction in logistics costs

Typical Case: A medical device exporter completed the process through an agency company:

• U.S. FDA Registration (2024 New Regulation Requirements)
• Preparation of CE Certification Technical Documentation
• Full logistics solution under DDP terms

How to Choose a Reliable Import and Export Agency Service Provider?

Recommended adoptionFour-Dimensional Evaluation Method:

• Qualification verification:
  • Customs AEO certification levels (new AA+ level added in 2025)
  • 40. Member of the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA)
• 41. Risk control ability:
  • Is a trade compliance review system in place?
  • Are there any successful cases of responding to the U.S. Section 301 clause?
• Service networks:
  • Overseas customs clearance partner coverage.
  • Distribution of emergency response outlets
• Technical capacity:
  • Does it provide API data integration?
  • Real-time tracking system completeness