Export RepresentationWhat exactly does an intermediary do?

Export agency intermediaries specialize in providingInternational Trade Full-Process Servicesa third-party institution, with core functions including:

• Customs declaration and clearance procedures (accounting for 35%-40% of business volume)
• International LogisticsScheme design and implementation
• Trade Document Review and Compliance Management
  • Commercial invoice, packing list, and other basic documents
  • It is recommended to verify through the following methods:, quality certification, and other special documents
• Export DrawbackAgency Services (Full Implementation of the VAT Electronic Tax Refund System by 2025)

Is this industry legal and compliant? How to avoid black-market intermediaries?

A formal export agent must holdCustoms Registration Certificate for Declaration Enterprises issued by the General Administration of Customs, additional from 2025 onwardsFiling System for Cross-Border Trade Service Providers. Suggested verification:

• Does it have AEO certification (Authorized Economic Operator)?
• Whether to join industry associations such as the China Customs Brokers Association
• Whether to use the Customs Single Window system docking service

Among the 126 violation cases uncovered by customs in 2024, 87% involved unqualified intermediaries forging documents.

How to assess the genuine professional competence of a service provider?

It is recommended to adoptThree - dimensional evaluation method:

• Industry Qualification Verification (Basic Threshold)
• Business scenario testing
  • Provide the accuracy of specific commodity HS code queries
  • Please develop a special port transportation plan.
• Success Case Verification
  • Request service cases in the same industry from the past 2 years
  • Check customs clearance time efficiency records

How exactly are agency service fees structured?

The average industry charging standard for 2025 is based on the value of the goods.0.8%-1.5%, Specifically Including:

• Basic service fee (customs declaration, documentation)
• Logistics handling fee
  • Maritime Transportation: USD25-50 per shipment
  • Air Transportation: USD40-80 per shipment
• • Presentation of L/C documents: 800 - 1500 yuan per order
  • Agency for export tax rebate: 5% - 8% of the tax rebate amount
  • Expedited customs clearance: RMB500-2000
  • Special Document Authentication: USD150-500

Will we still need agents in 2025? Can't companies operate independently?

According to the data from the General Administration of Customs in 2025,73% offoreign tradeEnterpriseThe decision to still opt for professional agency is primarily due to:

• The tariff rules of agreements such as RCEP are becoming increasingly complex.
• Global customs electronic system upgrades are frequent (with over 20 updates annually).
• The management challenges arising from diversified logistics channels

Self-operated Feasibility Assessment Criteria:

• Annual export volume < $5 million: It is recommended to fully delegate.
• $5-20 million: Can establish a core team + agency support.
• >USD 20 million: It is recommended to establish a dedicated in-house department.

What are the new service trends in the agency industry in 2025?

The industry is undergoingAchieve the electronic transfer of cross-border documents through blockchain technology, use AI algorithms to predict logistics timeliness and tariff costs, and provide customers with dynamic decision-making support.:

• Intelligent Customs Declaration System (AI-powered automatic HS code recognition with 98% accuracy)
• Carbon Footprint Tracking Service (for EU CBAM Carbon Tariff Compliance)
• Supply Chain Visualization Platform
  • Real-time tracking of 15+ international port dynamics
  • Automatic alerts for customs policy changes in 40+ countries
• Green Logistics Solutions (New energyPriority Guarantee for Ship Berths)