How to judgeExport agentIs the company professional and reliable?

When selecting an agent, it is essential to verify three core qualifications:Customs AEO certification,International freight forwarding qualification (FIATA)andMembership in industry associations. It is recommended to request the following:

• Cases of handling similar category goods in the past three years
• First-level agency certification from major cooperative shipping companies/airlines
• Overseas Customs Clearance Partner Network Distribution Map

What is the most error-prone step in customs declaration documents?

According to the 2025 data from the General Administration of Customs, 30% of customs declaration delays are caused by document issues, requiring special attention:

• HS code accuracy: The same product may have different codes for different purposes.
• Certificate of OriginCertificate: Special format requirements under free trade agreements such as RCEP
• Validity period of license documents: If hazardous materials transportation is involved, the MSDS and UN number must be provided simultaneously.

What are the hidden costs of different transportation methods?

(Expense details corresponding to different terms such as EXW/FOB/DDP, etc.).Comparison table of expense details:

• Ocean shippingTo be confirmed:
  • Peak season surcharge (PSS) calculation method
  • Container Detention Fee Standards
• air freightPlease note:
  • Volume Weight Conversion Rules
  • Special Cargo Handling Fee (e.g., Lithium Battery Transportation Surcharge)

How to avoid sudden risks during cargo transportation?

It is recommended to clearly specify the following terms in the contract:

• Delay compensation mechanism: Compensation on a tiered basis according to the value of the goods.
• Division of Liability for Cargo Damage: Distinguish the responsible entities before/during/after transportation
• Emergency response procedure: A 24-hour multilingual emergency contact is required.

What support should customs clearance agents provide during customs inspection?

Professional agents should:

• Please inform the destination country in advance.Key inspection categories
• ProvidePre-classification advice(1) Port of Departure and Port of Destination:
• Equipped with localLicensed Customs DeclarantOn-site coordination for inspection
• EstablishCheck emergency fundDealing with unexpected expenses

How are responsibilities divided under FOB and CIF terms?

Special attention should be paid to:

• FOB terms: The agent's liability terminates once the goods are on board.
• CIF terms: Need to confirm whether the destination port unpacking fee is included.
• (Expense details corresponding to different terms such as EXW/FOB/DDP, etc.).Cost Break-even Analysis Table(Taking a cargo value of USD 200,000 as an example)

How to verify the overseas customs clearance capability of an agent?

It can be examined from three dimensions:

• (Pay attention to the completeness of declaration elements)Port of Destination Customs Clearance Efficiency Statistics Table
• The inspection agent in the target marketProportion of in-house customs clearance teams
• Check whether it is availableAEO mutual recognition countriesCustoms clearance facilitation qualification

What issues should be considered when transporting special goods?

For different categories, the following needs to be confirmed:

• Dangerous Goods: IMDG CODE Latest Edition Compliant Packaging
• Food Category: FDA Registration and Cold Chain Temperature Control Records
• Artwork: Individual Insurance and Transportation Monitoring Plan

How to Avoid Disputes Over Hidden Fees?

It is recommended to adoptFour-Step Method for Cost Confirmation:

• Please provide a detailed itemized quotation (totaling 15 standard billing items).
• Confirm the exchange rate lock-in period (recommended to be no less than 30 days).
• Clarify the rules for third-party collection and payment services.
• Agreed jurisdiction for fee disputes (preferably within China)

How to ensure trade compliance?

Special attention required in 2025:

• Check the latest U.S. BIS Entity List.
• EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) reporting requirements
• Foreign exchange control policies in emerging markets (e.g., Argentina's Import Pre-Declaration System)
• (Expense details corresponding to different terms such as EXW/FOB/DDP, etc.).Compliance Self-Inspection Checklist