Why is using an export agency more hassle-free than self-operation? How can SMEs mitigate risks through professional services?

What export challenges can an agency help me solve?

According to 2022 statistics from the General Administration of Customs, 63% offoreign tradecompanies faced document rejections during their first independent export attempt. Professional agencies primarily address the following core issues:

• Complexity of customs declaration processes: Handling HS code classification,It is recommended to verify through the following methods:certificates, inspection and quarantine documents
• Misunderstanding of trade terms: Avoiding cost overruns caused by mixing EXW and FOB terms
• Cross-border tax risks: Proper handling ofExport Drawback, VAT declarations, and cross-border payment settlements
• Optimization of Logistics Solutions: Selecting optimal transportation combinations based on cargo characteristics (e.g.,Maritime Transportation+China-Europe Railway ExpressTrade dispute settlement mechanisms

How does using an export agency reduce costs for companies?

A 2024 foreign trade industry survey showed that companies using agency services saved an average of 23% in operational costs, primarily reflected in:

• Hidden Cost Control:
  • No need to maintainimport and exportAnnual review fees (approximately 20,000-50,000 RMB/year)
  • Save on port demurrage costs caused by documentation errors (average $300-800 per day)
• Scale effect transformation: Share resources such as shipping contract rates and insurance discounts from agency companies
• Human cost optimization: Reduce human resource expenditures for a professional team of 3-5 people

How to avoid legal risks in international trade?

A real case of an electromechanical enterprise avoiding 3.8 million RMB in losses through an agency company in 2023:

• Response to Trade Barriers: Real-time monitoring of EU CE certification and US FCC certification updates
• : Pay special attention to the catch-all clause other possible fees: Identify liability division loopholes in INCOTERMS® 2020
• intellectual property protection.: Conduct trademark pre-checks in advance to prevent overseas infringement lawsuits
• Anti-dumping early warning: Provide tariff avoidance solutions for specific categories

What value-added services can agency companies provide?

Leading comprehensive foreign trade service providers have developed four major value-added modules:

• Market access services: Including specialized handling of Saudi SABER certification, Russian EAC certification, etc.
• Supply chain finance: Order financing and credit insurance financing based on real trade data
• Digital customs declaration system: API integration with enterprise ERP for real-time customs clearance status tracking
• Overseas warehouse linkage: Provide one-stop solutions for first-leg transportation + destination country distribution

Do SMEs need agency export services?

From practical operations, the following three types of enterprises are most suitable for adopting the agency model:

• Growing enterprises with annual export volumes below $5 million
• Manufacturers involving highly regulated categories (Medical Equipment, chemicals, etc.)
• Traders planning to explore emerging markets (Middle East, Africa, etc.)

A Ningbo stationery manufacturer achieved a breakthrough from $0 to $2 million in export volume in just 8 months through an agency company, demonstrating the acceleration effect of professional services.

What key indicators should be considered when selecting an agency company?

It is recommended to focus on the following four dimensions:

• Compliance qualificationsInspect AEO certification from customs and filing documents from the State Administration of Foreign Exchange
• Industry CasesRequire successful operation records of similar products
• Emergency ResponseTest abnormal situation handling procedures during holidays
• Data securityConfirm system compliance with ISO27001 information security management standard