foreign tradeCommon export misconceptions: Differences between sample orders and bulk shipments

In foreign trade practice, many enterprises tend to directly apply sample order procedures to bulk exports. Indeed, when the value is below $800, using express company invoices for shipment is common and convenient. However, this approach may lead to potential issues when dealing with bulk exports.

First and foremost, its essential to clarify thatbulk exports and sample orders are fundamentally different in terms of customs supervision. According to international trade regulations, when the value exceeds a certain amount, formal customs declaration procedures are required regardless of the shipping method. This not only affects export enterprises tax rebate rights but also impacts importing countries tariff collection.

Three core considerations for bulk exports

When handling bulk exports, three key factors require special attention:

• Export Drawback: Formal customs declaration is a prerequisite for enterprises to obtain export tax rebates
• Import country customs clearance: Invoice headers may affect clients customs clearance processes
• Logistics costs: Cost differences arising from different operation methods

Tax rebates and customs declaration: An inseparable relationship

Tax rebates constitute one of the important profit sources for foreign trade enterprises, and to obtain them smoothly, one fundamental condition must be met:Conduct operations under the enterprises own nameExport Clearance. This means:

• Customs declaration documents must be prepared using the enterprises own header
• Complete customs clearance documents must be prepared, including commercial invoices, packing lists, etc.
• The declared customs value must match the actual transaction amount.

In practice, some companies continue to use the courier companys letterhead for convenience. While this approach may simplify the shipping process,it completely cuts off the companys path to obtaining tax refunds.In the long run, the losses outweigh the gains.

Client-side customs clearance considerations

From the clients perspective, invoice letterhead issues may have two impacts:

• Certain countries have specific requirements for the letterhead of imported goods invoices.
• If special certifications or permits are involved, the invoice letterhead must match the certification documents.

We recommend that foreign trade companies fully communicate with clients before shipment to understand the specific requirements of the importing country. If the client has no special requirements, from the companys own interests,using the original invoice letterhead for customs declaration and exportis the most prudent approach.

Balancing logistics costs and operational convenience

Indeed, using the original invoice letterhead for customs declaration and export may increase certain logistics costs, mainly reflected in:

• Relatively complex customs procedures may require additional customs clearance service fees.
• Some logistics companies charge higher rates for formal customs declarations.

However, these additional costs can often be offset by tax refund benefits. Foreign trade companies shouldCost - benefit analysisweigh the relationship between short-term convenience and long-term benefits.

Professional advice: Best practices for bulk cargo exports

Based on years of practical experience in foreign trade, we recommend the following operational methods for bulk cargo exports:

• Persist in using the companys own letterhead for formal customs declaration.
• Choose professional customs clearance service providers (such as OneTouch) to handle customs matters.
• Communicate invoice letterhead issues with clients in advance to avoid customs clearance obstacles.
• Include tax refund benefits in overall cost accounting.

Remember, foreign trade exports are not one-time transactions,Standardized Operationthey not only relate to the smooth progress of individual transactions but also form the foundation for long-term business development. In the current international trade environment, compliance is increasingly valued by customs authorities worldwide, making it crucial for companies to establish standardized export procedures.

Finally, it should be noted that policies may varyimport and exportbetween different countries and product categories. We recommend that foreign trade companies fully understand the specific requirements of target markets before conducting business, and seek assistance from professional customs brokers or trade consultants when necessary to ensure smooth transactions.