I. What isAgency export,? How is it different from self-operated exports?

Agency export,It refers to a trade model in which an enterprise entrusts a foreign-trade service provider with import-export qualifications to handle, under the agent’s name, the full set of export procedures—including customs declaration, logistics and transportation, and foreign-exchange settlement. The key difference from self-operated export is:

• Qualification Requirements: The agent must hold the customs AEO certification.
• Responsible Party: The customs declaration lists the agent as the shipper.
• Fund Flow: Foreign exchange is received and paid on behalf of the principal through the agent's account
• Risk-bearing: Compliance responsibilities are transferred to professional service providers

II. What is the typical operating model of agency export?

The mainstream export process via agents in 2025 comprises six key stages:

• Contract Signing: Clearly define the scope of agency services and the division of responsibilities
• Document Preparation: The agent prepares the commercial invoice, packing list, and other documents.
• Customs declaration: Use the customs code of the proxy party for customs clearance
• Logistics Execution: Agent-coordinated sea/air/land transport solutions
• Foreign exchange settlement: After the funds are received into the agency account, settlement and payment will be made at the agreed exchange rate.
• Tax refund declaration: The agent assists with processingExport tax refundProcedure

III. Which enterprises need itAgency export service?

The following three types of companies are recommended to prioritize export agency services:

• Enterprises involving multiple - currency settlement or letter - of - credit operations: Import/export qualifications and an operations team have not yet been established.
• Special industry operators: Involves regulated categories such as medical devices and chemical products
• Companies with highly volatile order volumes: Avoid the cost of maintaining a fixed foreign trade team

4. What expenses are incurred in export agency services?

The agency service fees in 2025 usually include:

• Basic service fee (0.8% - 1.5% of the cargo value)
• Special fees for customs declaration and inspection
• Document Authentication and Embassy Legalization Fees
• Contingency funds for exceptional case handling
• Exchange Rate Lock-in Service Fee (Optional)

V. How to Guard Against Risks in Export Agency?

It is recommended to adopt the following risk - control measures:

• Qualification verification: Verify the customs credit rating of the agent (as of 2025, the National Customs Credit Management System has enabled nationwide online queries).
• Funds supervision: Require the agent to provide a bank escrow account
• Liability agreement: Clearly specify the compensation standards for documentation errors in the contract
• Process Monitoring: Real-time inquiry of customs clearance progress and logistics tracking

VI. What should you pay attention to when choosing an export agency?

Five Core Characteristics of a High-Quality Agent:

• Holds the Customs Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification
• Has overseas customs clearance service outlets in the target market
• Provide a fully digital end-to-end tracking system
• Maintain professional trade compliance teams
• Provide customized risk-control solutions

VII. Will export through an agent affect the enterprise’s tax refund?

Pursuant to State Taxation Administration Announcement No. 38 of 2025, agencyExport tax refundComplete local currency transfer

• The "Agency Export Goods Certificate" provided by the agent must be used.
• The VAT invoice must include the remark "代理出口" (Export on Behalf).
• The foreign exchange receipt must match the agency agreement.
• For the initial declaration, proof of the commissioning party's production capacity must be provided.

VIII. What core documents are required for export by proxy?

The essential document checklist includes:

• The original of the agency agreement with the official seal affixed.
• Document of title to goods
• Trade contract compliant with INCOTERMS?2025
• Product Conformity Declaration (Specific Category)
• Advance Foreign Exchange Receipts and Payments Report Form

9. How should foreign exchange receipts and payments be handled in export agency arrangements?

2025 SAFE New Policy Requirements:

• The agent must complete the declaration within 5 working days after receiving the foreign exchange.
• Cross-border RMB settlement requires a description of the underlying transaction.
• Advance receipts exceeding USD 500,000 must be filed.
• The payment of agency fees must be processed through the bank's salary disbursement system.

10. What are the common pitfalls to avoid in export agency arrangements?

Four typical problems existing in the industry:

• Hidden charges: Destination Terminal Surcharge Added at a Later Stage
• Shifting of responsibility：When cargo damage occurs, everyone passes the buck.
• Risk of compliance: Declare customs using a third-party company name
• Misappropriation of funds: Abnormal extension of the payment settlement cycle

It is recommended to check the corporate credit records through the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade’s agency service certification platform (which had nationwide coverage by 2025) and select a legitimate agency service provider rated AA or above.