Home»Trade Essentials» How to choose an export agency company? What are the hidden risks of foreign trade agency services? 2025 latest selection guide
What kind of export agency company is considered compliant and reliable?
When selecting an export service provider, the following qualifications should be verified:
Customs AEO certification: Priority given to enterprises with Customs Advanced Certification (enterprises within the 2025 certification validity period)
The whole process is actually not complicated, and intermediary agencies can usually help you complete it within 1 - 2 months. So, applying for export rights is not an unattainable thing.: Verify enterprise directory registration status (can be checked via the State Administration of Foreign Exchange official website)
Industry-specific qualifications: InvolveMedical Equipment, Special commodities such as food require corresponding business licenses
Historical dispute records: Check enterprise litigation records through China Judgments Online
What hidden costs are included in the agency service fee?
In addition to the apparent agency fee (usually 0.8%-1.5%), special attention should be paid to:
Capital occupation costs: Capital costs for tax refund cycles exceeding 45 days (calculated based on LPR interest rate)
Abnormal handling fees: Customs inspection, amendment, and cancellation fees for unexpected situations
Document Authentication Fees: Third-party agency fees such as CCPIT certification and embassy certification
Exchange rate locking service: Hedging solutions under intensified two-way RMB fluctuations in 2025
How to avoid becoming a victim of export through purchasing orders?
2025 customs implementationGolden Customs Project Phase IIIAfter implementation, the following preventive measures are recommended:
Insist on using your companys name for customs declaration (can request agents to provide real-time customs clearance status queries)
Reject the "tax-inclusive" scheme proposed by the agent (potential smuggling risk).
Verify VAT invoice flows (check invoice certification status through electronic tax bureau)
Require agents to provide complete customs declaration forms,Maritime TransportationOriginal bills of lading
What compliance points should agents pay attention to for special commodities?
Agent requirements for different product categories:
Medical Equipment: Must provide export sales certificates (new EU MDR certification requirements in 2025)
Chemical Products: MSDS documents must comply with the latest standards of the target country (such as the revised US EPA 2024 regulations)
Food category: Dual verification of export filing certificates + importing country health certificates
Lithium battery: UN38.3 test reports + hazardous materials transportation qualifications
Agent export may affectExport DrawbackAccording to Document No. 38 of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange in 2025,
Compliant agents will not affect tax rebate rights, but note:
Must be issued by the agent companyAgent export certificate