What kind ofExport Representationcan be considered formal?

Formal export agents must meet the followingfour basic conditions:

• Possession of International Freight Forwarder Filing Form,
• Possess customs AEO certification qualification (2023 new version certification standards still apply)
• Have record filing in China Electronic Port
• Provide complete VAT special invoice

It is recommended toThe National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity SystemVerify the companys establishment time - companies specializing in export agency services for over 5 years are more trustworthy.

How to evaluate an agency companys service capabilities?

Focus on three key dimensions:

• : Whether main routes include your target markets (such as 2025 RCEP country routes): Check if their advantageous shipping routes match your export regions
• Special Qualifications:
  • Dangerous goods transportation qualification (UN certification)
  • Cold chain logistics certification (ISO 9001)
• Emergency case handling: Request case examples of their solutions for cargo detention during pandemic periods

How should agency fees be reasonably calculated?

The mainstream charging models in the market in 2025 include:

• Per-document fee: Single shipment handling fee: 200-500 RMB
• Sales percentage commission: 0.5%-1.2% (varies by product category)
• Annual fee system: Suitable for clients with annual export volume exceeding $3 million

Professional agencies can effectively prevent and control three core risks:Compliance risks:: Common charges like port surcharges, document amendment fees, and container detention fees must be specified in contract annexes.

How to avoid pitfalls in export agency contracts?

It is recommended to clarify in the contractSix key clauses:

• Liability division clause (especially for FCA/FOB term transitions)
• Minimum service time guarantee
• Force majeure exemption scope
• Agreement on the Dispute Resolution Place (it is recommended to choose the China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission)
• Intellectual Property Guarantee Clause
• Data confidentiality agreement

What documentation support should export agents provide?

Compliant agents should assist in preparingComplete set of trade documents:

• Commercial invoice (must comply with destination country language requirements)
• It is recommended to verify through the following methods:(Especially certificates under RCEP agreement)
• Quality inspection reports (such as EU CE certification documents)
• Dangerous goods transportation documents (MSDS, dangerous goods packaging certificate, etc.)

What to do when facing cargo detention at customs?

Professional agents should possessThree-tier emergency mechanism:

• 24-hour emergency contact window
• Local customs clearance agent network (recommend choosing companies with self-operated branches in target countries)
• Customs bond pre-deposit system

2024 U.S. Customs data shows professional agents resolve detention cases 3-5 working days faster than regular agents.

How to prevent risks of release without original bills?

Must require agents to signBill of lading control agreement, and implement the following measures:

• Issuance of house B/L must receive your written confirmation
• Enable blockchain notarization for electronic bills of lading
• Require the agent to purchaseWrongful release liability insurance(Coverage amount no less than 120% of cargo value)

How does digital transformation impact the selection of agents?

Key attributes of premium agents in 2025Four core digital capabilities:

• Real-time cabin space visualization system
• AI-powered classification system (HS code accuracy >98%)
• Electronic document auto-verification function
• Carbon footprint tracking report (compliant with EU CBAM requirements)

Recommend on-site demonstration of their operating system, with special focus on response speed of customs declaration data auto-precheck function.