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 declarationFinancial 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 monthsIn order to crack down on tax evasion, the customs and tax departments are now strictly examining the operation of buying export declarations. If the behavior of buying export declarations is discovered, the regulatory authorities will require tax replenishment (even a 2% tax rate may be a considerable amount). In addition, fines may also be imposed on the relevant responsible parties.Trade 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 paymentSome 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)