How to find a reliable export customs clearance agent? These 8 key questions must be asked clearly!

Why must you choose a professional customs clearance agent?

According to the latest data from the General Administration of Customs in 2025, companies using professional customs clearance agents have seen an average 37.2% improvement in clearance efficiency, with declaration error rates 64% lower than the industry average. Professional agents not only ensure accurate HS code classification but also avoid risks such ascontainer detention, administrative penalties, and credit downgrades. For example, an electromechanical company incurred 120,000 yuan in demurrage fees due to classification errors when declaring independently, but achieved zero-error clearance after entrusting an AEO-certified agent.

How to determine if a customs clearance agent has AEO certification?

AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) certification is the highest customs credit rating, which can be verified through the following methods:

• Log in to China Customsimport and exportEnterprise Credit Information Publicity Platform for inquiry
• Request to provide the AEO certification certificate issued by customs (the 2025 version certificate has added anti-counterfeiting QR codes)
• Verify whether its customs system is connected to the customs AEO dedicated channel

What necessary items are included in customs clearance agent fees?

The 2025 industry standard cost structure should include:

• Basic service fee (500-2000 yuan per ticket)
• Special service items:
  • Expedited declaration fee (night/holiday operations)
  • Inspection assistance fee (cost of accompanying inspection personnel)
  • Document translation and certification fee
• Risk deposit (refundable emergency funds)

How to evaluate the actual service capability of a customs clearance agent?

It is recommended to adoptThree Checks and Three Inquiries evaluation method:

• Check cases: Request customs clearance records for similar products in the past 6 months (anonymized)
• Check systems: Confirm the use of the Electronic Port QP system or customs-certified declaration software
• Check network: Whether it has established its own offices at major ports
• Question process: Test its familiarity with classification dispute resolution mechanisms
• Question efficiency: Require written commitment to time nodes for each process
• Question emergency: On-site response plan for sudden inspections

How to hold customs clearance agents accountable for operational errors?

The following terms must be clearly stated in the contract:

• Error Types and Compensation Ratios:
  • Declaration errors causing port delays: Bear daily storage fees + 0.5‰ penalty of cargo value
  • Document loss: Bear reissue costs + 3x service fee compensation
• Purchase professional liability insurance (coverage not less than 5 million yuan)
• Dispute resolution priority given to customs-certified mediation committees

How to prevent common tricks by unscrupulous agents?

Beware of three high-risk scenarios:

• Ultra-low price traps: Single ticket quotes below 400 yuan may indicate use of pirated systems
• Guaranteed clearance promises: Legitimate agents never make absolute guarantees on inspection rates
• Vague clauses: Pay special attention to general expressions such as other government fees,

Can customs brokers assist with customs inspections?

High-quality agents should provideThree-tier response mechanism:

• Primary: Submit complete supporting documents within 1 hour
• Intermediate: Dispatch personnel to arrive at inspection site within 4 hours
• Advanced: Initiate pre-classification dispute ruling procedures

What other details should be considered when selecting a customs broker?

Special attention required in 2025:

• Digital application capabilities for RCEP rules of origin
• Preparation status of carbon tariff declaration modules
• Collaboration network with overseas customs clearance agents
• Whether value-added services after customs declaration are provided (Export DrawbackVerification, etc.)