What items are included in the export trade agency service fee?

The fee structure of a regular agency company usually includes:

• Basic service fee: Charged at 0.8% - 2.5% of the cargo value (the industry average in 2023 is 1.8%)
• Document processing fee: Document preparation fees such as customs declaration form/It is recommended to verify through the following methods:Logistics surcharge
• : Special services such as special packaging and dangerous goods declaration: Financial service fee
• Bank docking services such as bill review and trade financing:L/CWhat new changes are there in the calculation method of agency fees in 2025?

Evolution of the main charging models in recent years:

Becoming the mainstream (fixed fee + cargo value proportion)

• Mixed charging modelDigital service fee listed separately (ERP system connection fee)
• Green trade surcharge (carbon tariff declaration service)
• RCEP regional preferential rate (fees for business in ASEAN countries can be reduced by 15 - 30%)
• RCEP regional preferential rates (Businesses in ASEAN countries can have a 15 - 30% fee reduction)

What factors will affect the final service fee?

• Product attributes:
  • Ordinary goods: 0.5 - 1.2%
  • Sensitive goods (such asMedical Equipment): 1.5 - 3%
• Trade terms: The FOB price is on average 0.3% lower than the CIF price
• Settlement Methods: A 0.2% document review fee is added for letter of credit (L/C) business
• Annual business volume: Customers with an annual business volume of over $5 million can get a tiered discount

How to avoid hidden charging traps?

It is recommended to pay special attention to:

• Foreign exchange verification surcharge(Requirements of the new policy in 2025)
• Abnormal Situation Handling Fees(Emergency service for customs inspection)
• Exchange rate locking service fee(Forwards over 3 monthsFX Settlement AgencyTrade dispute settlement mechanisms
• Document certification surcharge(Special requirements such as embassy certification)

What fee concessions can major customers get?

Customers with an annual export volume of over $3 million usually enjoy:

• A 0.2 - 0.5% reduction in the rate based on the value of goods
• The minimum charge threshold per shipment is reduced (from $150 to $80)
• Priority arrangement for customs clearance without deposit
• Free trade compliance consultation

What are the options for paying the service fee?

• Pre - payment mode: Applicable to new customers / high - risk businesses
• Post - payment mode: A bank guarantee is required (with a 15% reduction in fees)
• Installment payment: Pay 30% upon signing, 50% upon shipment, and 20% upon settlement of exchange
• Digital currency payment: Some agents accept USDT payment (saving 3% exchange loss)

How to effectively negotiate the agency service fees?

It is recommended to adopt the following strategies:

• Provide complete annual export forecast data
• Promise to use the designated logistics service provider
• Accept the electronic document management system
• Bundle other value - added services (such as export credit insurance)