1. How to verifyExport RepresentationDoes the company have the legal business qualifications?

When verifying basic licenses and certificates, the following key points must be confirmed:The business scope on the business license must include "goods"import and export"or" "International Freight Forwarding"It is recommended to verify the authenticity of the registration information through the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System. Professional agency companies typically hold:

• Customs AEO certification qualification (preferably select an advanced certified enterprise)
• FIATA membership (International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations)
• Primary agency qualification for major shipping companies/airlines

2. How to assess the actual service capabilities of an agency company?

Request the service provider to provide operational cases from the past three years, with special attention to:

• Do you have export experience with similar product categories (e.g., hazardous goods/food/Medical Equipment(For special categories, etc.)
• Does the primary service area align with the target market (e.g., RCEP countries/emerging markets in Africa)?
• Overseas agency network coverage density (customs clearance, warehousing, and other supporting capabilities)

3. What are the hidden costs involved in export agency fees?

In addition to the basic agency fee, the following fee charging standards need to be confirmed:

• Document handling fee (including special documents such as CO/FA)
• Abnormal situation handling fees (customs inspection, document amendment, etc.)
• Exchange rate fluctuation risk sharing mechanism
• Minimum charge threshold (especially for small-quantity orders)

4. How to evaluate the risk control system of an agency company?

Professional agency companies should have a comprehensive risk control plan:

• Purchase international cargo liability insurance (minimum coverage recommended at USD 5 million).
• Bank Supervision Mechanism for Collection and Payment of Goods Payment
• Customs Audit Response Plan (AEO enterprises may enjoy reduced inspection rates)
• Trade Compliance Review Process (including Export Control/Anti-Money Laundering Review)

5. How does the level of digital service affect cooperation?

Prioritize those equipped with professionalforeign tradeService provider of the management system:

• Real-time Cargo Tracking System (Supports API Integration with Enterprise ERP)
• Electronic Document Transmission System (Compliant with Customs Single Window Standards)
• Online reconciliation and settlement function (automatically generates expense details)

6. How to handle trade disputes when they arise?

The division of responsibilities must be clearly stipulated in the contract:

• Compensation Standards for Cargo Damage/Loss (Based on Cargo Value or Multiples of Freight)
• Rules for Determining Liability for Customs Clearance Delays
• Dispute resolution mechanism (it is recommended to specify an arbitration institution)

7. How can small and medium-sized enterprises obtain customized service solutions?

A high-quality agency will provide services tailored to the characteristics of the enterprise:

• Market Access Consulting (Product Certification/Tariff Optimization Recommendations)
• Supply chain financial support (e.g.Export DrawbackFinancing)
• Foreign Trade Talent Development Services (Customs/Documentation Operation Training)

Special reminder:The international trade environment in 2025 continues to evolve, and it is advisable to prioritize agencies with policy research capabilities. For instance, service providers that can offer solutions in response to the latest policies such as the EU CBAM carbon tariff and the U.S. UFLPA Act will more effectively ensure corporate export compliance.