What specific tasks do export trade agencies undertake?

The core functions of professional export trade agencies encompass three dimensions:

• Customs clearance compliance assurance
  • HS code classification and declaration element confirmation
  • customs clearanceDocument preparation and electronic data declaration
  • Handling customs inspections and classification disputes (In 2024, a machinery and electrical equipment company saved 15% in tariffs through our revised classification scheme)
• End-to-end supply chain management
• International transportation solution design and execution
• Export tax refundDocument filing guidance
• Special trade mode operations (e.g. cross-border e-commerce 9710 model)
• Risk control system
  • Trade compliance review (After the implementation of RCEP origin rules in 2025, we have assisted 37 companies in obtaining tariff reductions)
  • Foreign exchange payment anomaly alerts
  • Legal consultation support for trade disputes

How much can you save using an agency versus self-handling?

According to our 2025 client data analysis, the comprehensive cost savings generated by agency services are mainly reflected in:

• Reduction of hidden costs: Average customs clearance time reduced by 2.7 working days (compared with self-handled customs declaration data)
• Tariff optimization potential: Through FTA application, achieved up to 92% tariff reduction in importing countries
• Accelerated capital turnover: Professional tax refund services reduced average payment cycle from 180 days to 45 days

How to evaluate an agency companys professionalism?

We recommend establishing an evaluation system from four dimensions:

• Qualification verification: China Customs AEO certification, FIATA membership for international freight forwarding, etc.
• Industry matching degree: Whether they have experience handling similar products (e.g. medical devices requiring cold chain qualifications)
• Technical systems: Whether equipped with intelligent customs declaration systems (One client reduced declaration error rate by 83% through our AI pre-review system)
• Service networks: Whether there are on-site service teams at key ports/free trade zones

Are there potential risks in agency services?

Special attention should be paid to three types of risk control:

• Legal joint liability: Clearly define liability boundary clauses in agency contracts
• Information security risksRequire service providers to obtain ISO 27001 information security management certification
• Emergency response capabilityCase study: Lessons learned from a clients cargo detention due to lack of emergency plans by an agency company during the pandemic

What special agency services are needed for emerging market expansion?

For emerging markets such as Southeast Asia and Africa, professional agents should provide:

• Localized certification servicesHalal certification, COC product conformity inspection, etc.
• Special customs clearance solutionsHandling mandatory certifications such as Nigerias SONCAP and Saudi Arabias SABER
• Foreign exchange control solutionsSpecial foreign exchange settlement channels for trade payments in countries like Algeria