Export RepresentationWhat legal qualifications are required?

The primary criterion for selecting an export agent is to verify their business qualifications. According to the latest 2025 "Customs Declaration Unit Registration Management Regulations," compliant agents must hold:

• Industry certification(Can be verified through China Customs Enterprise)import and exportCredit Information Publicity Platform Inquiry)
• Yesforeign tradeForeign Trade Operator Registration Form
• Record - keeping certificate of international freight forwarder
• (Enterprises of category B and above are in normal status)

It is recommended to request the agency to provide the customs AEO certification status for the past three years, as this directly impacts clearance efficiency and inspection probability. As of Q2 2025, only 12% of customs declaration enterprises nationwide have obtained advanced certification.

How to determine whether the agent's industry experience is a good match?

Professional alignment directly impacts operational efficiency. It is recommended to verify through the following methods:

• (Pay attention to the completeness of declaration elements)Export cases of similar products in the past 2 yearsPlease translate the following Chinese into English: (Note: Desensitization required)
• Verify whether its cooperative carriers possess special transportation qualifications.
  • For example, hazardous chemicals require MSDS certification.
  • Cold chain cargo requires an ATP certificate.
• Conduct on-site inspections to verify the compatibility of its operating system (e.g., whether it can interface with ERP).

What hidden costs are included in the agency service fee?

The 2025 industry survey reveals that 78% of disputes stem from misunderstandings regarding fees. In addition to the basic service fee, special attention should be paid to:

• Port of Destination Charge Allocation Mechanism
• Exchange rate fluctuation compensation clause
• Customs Classification Dispute Handling Fees
• Amendment fee for documents (e.g., reissuance of FORM E)

(Expense details corresponding to different terms such as EXW/FOB/DDP, etc.).Cost Composition Matrix Table, clearly define the calculation methods for fixed costs and variable costs.

How to evaluate an agent's risk resistance capability?

Establish an evaluation system from three dimensions:

• Fund guarantee
  • The registered capital shall not be less than RMB 5 million.
  • Records of Export Credit Insurance Coverage
• Crisis handling case database
  • Customs audit response success rate
  • Experience in circumventing trade sanctions
• Alternative Solution Reserve
  • Contingency Plan for Alternate Ports
  • Emergency Policy Response Mechanism

Are there any cooperation risks for small and medium-sized agents?

According to customs data from 2025, the proportion of enterprises with an annual export value below $20 million opting for regional agents has increased to 43%. Key control points include:

• Confirm the single shipment business liability insurance coverage.
• Please translate the following Chinese into English: Verify the whitelist of upstream and downstream suppliers
• Please provide the bank fund supervision certificate.
• Establish a phased payment mechanism

How important is digital capability in agent selection?

According to the 2025 International Freight Association report, agents equipped with intelligent customs clearance systems can reduce clearance time by 30%. Key focus areas:

• EDI Data Exchange Capability Level
• Visual Tracking System Coverage
• Application of AI Compliance Review Module
• Implementation Status of Blockchain-based Evidence Preservation

How to prevent agent misappropriationExport Drawback?

Recommended Triple Safeguard Measures:

• Request the agent to open a joint account
• Set up two-factor authentication in the tax refund declaration system.
• Check the electronic customs ledger on a monthly basis.

What legal issues should be considered when changing an export agent?

Special attention must be paid to three legal connection points:

• Non-compete clause in the original agency contract
• The time limit for changes to customs recordation information (not to exceed 15 working days at maximum).
• Transfer of regulatory accounts for unsettled foreign exchange