Hello everyone! I’m planning to venture into the import agency business but am unsure about the required qualifications. Do I need any special licenses? What are the requirements for the company’s business scope and capital? I’d appreciate detailed advice from those in the know. Thanks in advance!
Someone asked about becoming an Asics import agent but didn’t know where to start or what conditions needed to be met. The best answer suggests first contacting Asics’ official channels to submit an agency application, requiring legal business qualifications like a business license, sufficient financial capability to cover costs, and suitable sales channels. This provides practical guidance for those interested in becoming Asics import agents.
The company has engaged an import agent for import business but is unsure how to pay the agent, inquiring about payment methods, their pros and cons, and the timing of payments. The best answer suggests that payment methods include wire transfer (T/T), letter of credit (L/C), and collection, with T/T being fast but requiring accurate information, L/C being secure but involving cumbersome procedures, and collection being high-risk due to reliance on commercial credit. For payment timing, a 30% - 50% deposit can be paid in advance, with the balance paid after the goods arrive and pass inspection.
The company plans to hire a freight import and export agency to handle its business, but doesn't know what to pay attention to. The best answer indicates that, first of all, check the qualifications of the agency company, such as relevant business licenses. Secondly, pay attention to its service capabilities, reputation, etc. The expense details should be clear, the communication response should be timely, and the contract terms should be carefully reviewed, including the scope of services, etc., to protect the rights and interests of both parties.
I want to be an import agent for pet food cans but have absolutely no experience. I hope to understand the operation process, such as what materials to prepare in the early stage, what precautions to take when choosing an agency company, and the complexity of customs clearance. The best answer points out that one should first clarify the import policy standards, prepare basic commercial and official documents, assess the professionalism when choosing an agency, and the agency will assist with the declaration during customs clearance. If the labels do not conform, rectification may be required. Choosing a professional agency can ensure the smooth progress of the process.
Expresses a preference for overseas shopping and wants to understand whether there are significant differences in quality, price, after-sales service, etc., between genuine products obtained through import agents and those purchased directly from abroad. Concerned about potential pitfalls when buying through import agents. The best answer states that quality is usually similar, prices may vary depending on circumstances, and after-sales service might be more convenient with import agents. Choosing a professional and reliable agent ensures comparable or even better protection in various aspects compared to direct overseas purchases.
A friend plans to start a pet export business but doesn't know how to evaluate the reliability of pet export agency channels. Seeking help from everyone. The best answer suggests analyzing pet export agency channels from aspects such as qualifications, service capabilities, logistics resources, pricing, and reputation to ensure finding a reliable agency that can support the pet export business.
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Professional consultant answers
Robert ChenYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Customer service consultantConsult
To operate as an import agent, certain qualifications are indeed necessary.
First, regarding industrial and commercial registration, the business scope must include import and export of goods or technology, among other related activities, to legitimize the operation. Additionally, the company must be a legally established enterprise or other economic organization.
In terms of capital, while there’s no fixed mandatory amount, it’s generally advisable to have sufficient working capital to cover expenses like payments for goods and customs duties, as insufficient funds could disrupt operations.
For licensing, you’ll typically need to complete the Foreign Trade Operator registration with the commerce department. This registration is a fundamental requirement for engaging in import and export activities. Moreover, if you’re dealing with special goods like food or medical devices, additional licenses from relevant regulatory authorities may be required. For example, importing food might necessitate a Food Business License. In short, requirements vary by case, so thorough understanding is crucial.
Michelle ChenYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Business coordination consultantConsult
Generally, you’ll need a valid business license with a scope that includes import and export activities. Completing the Foreign Trade Operator registration is also a critical step for starting an import agency business.
Sarah ZhangYears of service：8Customer Rating：5.0
Document expertConsult
The company should have adequate financial resources, as import operations involve significant capital flow. Insufficient funds could hinder smooth operations.
Joseph ZhouYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Senior foreign trade managerConsult
For special goods like cosmetics, additional permits such as Cosmetic Import Licenses may be required as per regulations.
William YangYears of service：5Customer Rating：5.0
International logistics consultantConsult
Familiarity with import and export policies and regulations is essential to avoid mistakes in business operations—this can be considered a "soft qualification."
James LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Foreign trade tax refund consultantConsult
It’s ideal to have a professional foreign trade team capable of handling complex processes like customs declarations and inspections.