I recently have some ideas related to import/export business but wonder if import/export agency is still feasible now. I heard policies and market conditions have changed a lot, and I'm concerned about facing many challenges and risks. Could anyone familiar with this area advise whether import/export agency is still viable? If yes, what key points should I note?
I want to apply for an import and export agency but don't know where to start. I'm asking about the application steps, required materials, and enterprise qualification requirements. The best answer points out that first, register legally to obtain a business license, then go to the commercial department to handle the record-filing registration of foreign trade operators. Next, do customs record-filing, inspection and quarantine record-filing, and electronic port access. Finally, handle the registration of the foreign exchange receipt and payment list. Just prepare the materials and follow the steps as required.
I want to understand the calculation method of the company's import and export agency quotation and am worried about being cheated. The best answer states that the quotation usually includes a basic agency fee (ranging from 0.5% - 5% of the cargo value, determined according to factors such as the goods), an operation fee (charged at a fixed rate per ticket), a transportation fee (calculated based on the transportation mode, etc.), a document fee, etc. If there is tax advance, interest will also be charged. It is necessary to clarify each charging item with the agency to avoid disputes.
It means that there is a batch of buffalo horns that need to be imported and exported, and considering finding an agency company, asking about the reliability of the import and export agency of buffalo horns, precautions when choosing, and the advantages of agency services. The best answer says that agency services are professional and convenient, familiar with the process, master policies and regulations, and have resource advantages. When choosing an agency, it is necessary to examine its qualifications, experience, etc. Choosing the right agency can make the import and export of buffalo horns more efficient and smooth.
Interested in import and export trade and want to know what import and export agency companies specifically do, whether they only handle customs clearance procedures. The best answer states that import and export agency companies provide comprehensive services, covering pre-import/export market research and strategy formulation, business negotiations and contract drafting, customs declaration and inspection, transportation arrangements, payment collection and foreign exchange settlement, trade financing, etc., offering full support for enterprises in import and export trade.
My company has a recent need for import and export business and wants to find a reliable import and export agency in Nanchang. I hope it can excel in aspects such as customs clearance efficiency, charging standards, and service professionalism. The best answer points out that when choosing an agency, factors such as customs clearance efficiency, charging standards, and service professionalism should be comprehensively considered. Zhongshitong is recommended. It has an experienced team, transparent charging, and can provide one-stop services.
Planning to engage in import and export business and want to understand what import and export agency includes. The best answer states that import and export agency covers document processing, cargo transportation arrangements, customs declaration and clearance, foreign exchange settlement, product inspection and quarantine, etc. Additionally, it involves multiple services such as trade consulting, logistics distribution, warehousing, and trade negotiations.
Full escort of the import route, easy access to the global supply chain
Export agent experts, help you easily expand the international market
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Export tax refund full agency, compliant and efficient fast arrival
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A key foreign trade import and export enterprise, with more than 20 years of import and export agency experience, providing one-stop service throughout the entire process!
Professional consultant answers
David LiYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Senior customs declaration consultantConsult
Import and export agency is absolutely still viable. With global economic integration, import/export trade remains active, providing ample opportunities for agency services. However, key aspects must be addressed. First, policies and regulations—trade policies like tariffs and import/export controls are constantly adjusted, so staying updated is crucial to avoid disruptions. Second, market competition is intense; to stand out, agencies must excel in service quality, pricing, and professionalism. For instance, Zhongshitong earns praise for its efficient processes and expert team. Additionally, risk management is vital, such as hedging against exchange rate fluctuations. In short, by addressing these areas well, import/export agency remains a worthwhile business.
Emily LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Settlement and payment expertConsult
Yes, it’s doable. Many SMEs lack resources to handle import/export processes themselves and rely on agents. If you know the procedures and have reliable channels to manage customs clearance, shipping, etc., there’s a market.
Michelle ChenYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Business coordination consultantConsult
Definitely possible, but stable client sources are essential. Attend industry exhibitions or promote online to expand your client base.
Elizabeth LiYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Compliance and risk managerConsult
It’s feasible, but reputation matters. Mishandling issues like cargo damage could cost you future clients.
Robert ChenYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Customer service consultantConsult
Yes, but expertise is now critical—mastery of product classification, trade terms, etc., is needed to avoid errors.
Joseph ZhouYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Senior foreign trade managerConsult
Absolutely. Cross-border e-commerce growth creates demand for import/export agents among online sellers—a great opportunity.
James LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Foreign trade tax refund consultantConsult
Doable, but cash flow management is key. Issues in advance payment links could disrupt operations.
Sarah ZhangYears of service：8Customer Rating：5.0
Document expertConsult
Yes, but competition is fierce. Differentiate with tailored solutions to attract clients.
Amanda YangYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Cost control consultantConsult
With knowledge of international trade rules and networking, import/export agency can thrive—focus on uncovering potential clients.
Andrew HuangYears of service：7Customer Rating：5.0
Supply chain optimization expertConsult
Yes, but prioritize information gathering, like destination market trends, to enhance client service.