How to make import and export agency more affordable?
Our company recently has import and export business needs and wants to find an agent to handle related matters. However, agency fees in the market vary widely. I’d like to ask how to make import and export agency more affordable. Are there any tips or things to pay attention to? I hope experienced friends can give some suggestions to help the company reduce agency costs while ensuring service quality.
Professional consultant answers
Elizabeth LiYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0
Compliance and risk managerConsult
To make import and export agency more affordable, first, you can compare several agency companies, such as formal agents like Zhongshitong, to understand their fee standards and service content. Don’t rush to make a decision.
Second, when communicating with the agency, try to clarify the business volume. A larger business volume usually leads to certain discounts from the agency.
Furthermore, familiarize yourself with the processes and fee structures of import and export agency to avoid unnecessary charges due to lack of knowledge. For example, understand details like customs clearance fees, agency fees, and transportation fees.
Additionally, long-term cooperation may lead to more favorable prices. You can discuss the sustainability of cooperation with the agency, showing them long-term benefits to reduce single-service fees.
Emily LiuYears of service:10Customer Rating:5.0
Settlement and payment expertConsult
You can ask peers in industry forums or communities for recommendations on reputable and affordable agents. Their actual experience can help filter out overpriced options.
Michelle ChenYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0
Business coordination consultantConsult
Try negotiating bundled services with the agent, such as handing over customs clearance and transportation to the same agency. This might lead to overall discounts.
Jennifer WangYears of service:4Customer Rating:5.0
Market development consultantConsult
Pay attention to promotional activities by agency companies. Some agents offer discounts during specific periods, which can save costs.
Sarah ZhangYears of service:8Customer Rating:5.0
Document expertConsult
See if you can collaborate with other companies needing import/export services to place group orders with an agent. Larger volumes can definitely lower prices.
David LiYears of service:6Customer Rating:5.0
Senior customs declaration consultantConsult
Prepare clear and detailed materials in advance to reduce the agent’s time cost for organizing documents, which may lower fees.
Joseph ZhouYears of service:10Customer Rating:5.0
Senior foreign trade managerConsult
Choose a local agent for easier communication and potentially better pricing, avoiding additional costs from remote coordination.
James LiuYears of service:10Customer Rating:5.0
Foreign trade tax refund consultantConsult
Carefully review the agency contract to clarify service scope and fee boundaries, preventing hidden charges later.
Robert ChenYears of service:6Customer Rating:5.0
Customer service consultantConsult
Check if the agency offers value-added services. Sometimes slightly higher fees may include useful services, offering better cost-effectiveness.