enteredExport agentWhat basic qualifications should the company possess?

According to the Customs Declaration Unit Record-filing Management Regulations issued by the General Administration of Customs in 2024, compliant agencies must hold:

• Customs filing code: Can be verified through China Customs Enterprise Import/Export Credit Information Publicity Platform
• Foreign Exchange Administration records: Demonstrates cross-border payment and settlement qualifications
• Industry Certification: Such as AEO certified enterprises (Customs Advanced Certification) are more trustworthy
• 25. Special commodity business license: Requires special qualifications for medical devices, food, etc.

How to determine if an agencys service scope matches your needs?

Recommend matching from three dimensions:

• Regional coverage capability:
  • Main port filing status (e.g. Shanghai Port requires separate filing)
  • Number of countries covered by overseas customs clearance network
• How to optimize logistics costs for wheelchair exports?:
  • Annual operation volume of similar products (requires case proof)
  • Special document processing experience (e.g. FORM E Certificate of Origin)
• Service response standard:
  • Customs declaration exception response time (industry average is 2 working hours)
  • Holiday emergency handling mechanism

How to verify the real capabilities of an agent?

2025 industry research shows 78% of disputes stem from fee perception differences. Beyond basic agency fees, note:

• Official fee collection items: Customs inspection fees, container detention fees, amendment fees, etc.
• Capital occupation costs: Prepaid tariff accounting period calculation method
• Additional service fee: Such as classification pre-ruling, AEO certification guidance and other value-added services

How to prevent credit risks with agencies?

Recommend implementing three-level risk control measures:

• Preliminary review: Check enterprise credit reports (available via Qichacha)
• Process control: Require use of Customs new generation payment system (avoid fund collection)
• Following afterwards: Specify data sovereignty clauses in agency agreements

What special considerations should SMEs have when selecting agencies?

For enterprises with annual export volume below $2 million, recommend focusing on:

• Minimum order quantity: Some agencies require single shipment value no less than $5000
• LCL service capability: Key factor affecting logistics costs
• Foreign exchange settlement flexibility: Whether supporting small-amount multi-currency settlement

How to evaluate an agencys actual service level?

Recommend verifying through three practical methods:

• Customs clearance efficiency test: Request to provide complete customs clearance timelines for the last 3 shipments of similar goods
• Crisis response simulation: Inquiry about solutions for HS code disputes
• System docking test: Verification of ERP systems data interaction capability with Single Window