I. Foreign tradeExport agentWhat are the core processes included?

StandardExport agentThe process comprises seven key stages:

• Signing of the entrustment agreement: Clearly define the rights, responsibilities, and scope of services for both parties
• Stocking and Inspection: Including product classification and packaging standard verification
• Document preparation: Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, etc.
• customs clearancedeclare: HS Code Classification and Customs Declaration System Integration
• Logistics and Transportation: Ocean/Air Freight Booking and Transportation Process Monitoring
• Foreign exchange settlement: Collection Verification and Tax Rebate Documentation Compilation
• After-sales tracking: Exception Handling and Annual Reconciliation

II. How to evaluate the professionalism of an export agency service provider?

When selecting a service provider, focus on evaluating five key dimensions:

• Certification of Qualification
  • Customs AEO Advanced Certification (2025 certification standards updated)
  • Membership of the International Freight Agents Association (FIATA)
• Industry Experience
  • Export cases of similar products (it is recommended to request data from the past three years)
  • Special industry certifications (e.g., ISO 13485 certification required for medical devices)
• Service networks
  • Overseas customs clearance partner coverage.
  • Localized service teams at major ports

3. What components are included in the export agency fee?

The typical fee structure for 2025 is as follows:

• Basic agency fees: 0.8%–1.5% of the goods value (depending on product complexity)
• Processing fees: USD 200–800 per ticket
• What are the cost components?: $500–1,500 per batch
• Additional logistics costs: Including fuel surcharges, port congestion fees, etc.
• The risk guarantee: Usually 10% of the cargo value (refundable)

IV. How to Avoid Common Risks in Export Agency?

According to 2025 data from the General Administration of Customs, the main risks are concentrated in:

• Risk of compliance
  • Solution: Require the agent to provide advance ruling services on RCEP rules of origin
• Logistics delays
  • Countermeasure: Clearly stipulate booking guarantee clauses in the contract
• Exchange rate fluctuations
  • Recommended approach: Select an agent that offers forward foreign exchange settlement services

V. What innovations have emerged in agency services in the digital age?

Three major trends will shape the industry in 2025:

• Blockchain documents: China’s International Trade Single Window has already implemented the electronic bill of lading application
• intelligent customs declaration: AI-assisted HS code classification accuracy reaches 98%
• Visual tracking: Integrated cargo tracking system with AIS satellite positioning

When selecting a professional export agency, ask them to demonstrate their latest digital management system and verify its integration with regulatory platforms such as the General Administration of Customs’ “Guan-Tie Tong.” Regularly review the agency’s compliance record by checking its latest rating on the China Customs Enterprise Import & Export Credit Information Disclosure Platform.