I'm very interested in overseas export agency business and plan to enter this field. But I have no experience at all and don't know where to start. I'd like to ask professionals, what preparations are needed in the early stages of doing overseas export agency business? What is the specific procedure? What precautions should be taken? I hope to get detailed and practical advice, thank you!
I'm new to export agency business and want to know if overt and covert commissions still exist in this field, including their operational details and business impacts. The best answer confirms both types remain: overt commissions are explicitly stated in documents and directly deducted by foreign clients, while covert commissions are privately paid after receiving full payment. Overt commissions offer transparency for cost calculation, while covert ones require compliance attention.
I've just started to get in touch with the export agency business and want to know how to calculate the scale of export agency. I'm confused whether it is calculated based on the total value of goods exported on behalf of others, or whether factors such as the number of agency clients and the number of countries covered by the business are involved. The best answer points out that the calculation of the scale of export agency usually mainly depends on the total value of goods exported on behalf of others. At the same time, the number of agency clients, the number of countries covered by the business, etc. also have reference significance. A comprehensive assessment of these aspects can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the scale.
The company plans to engage in export agency business but is unclear about income recognition and calculation methods. It asks whether financial treatment should be based on receiving payments from clients or the customs declaration time of exported goods, and whether income calculation should be a percentage of export value or other methods. The best answer states that export agency income recognition follows the accrual basis, can be confirmed upon customs declaration completion, typically treats agency fees as income (calculated as a percentage of export value), and requires proper financial record-keeping.
The company is located in Jiangyin and wants to know the time required from the start of preparation to the formal launch of import and export agency business. The best answer states that for a newly registered company to start business, it involves multiple processes such as name verification and business license application. If everything goes smoothly, it takes about 2 - 3 weeks. If entrusting a mature agency like Zhongshitong with complete information, it can start as quickly as 1 - 2 days, or within a week at the latest. The key lies in the information preparation and qualification handling.
I'm planning to get into the export agency business and I'm wondering if it's easy to run an export agency company now. I mentioned the changes in the foreign trade market and policies, and I want to know about the difficulty of entering the industry, competition, and profit situation. The best answer pointed out that export agency companies face both opportunities and challenges. The global economic recovery brings opportunities, but the competition is fierce, policies are changeable, and profitability depends on business volume, etc. To do well, efforts need to be made in many aspects, and there is room for development if there is a plan and execution ability.
Interested in entering the import and export agency business and inquiring about its feasibility, including the level of competition, required professional knowledge and skills, risks, and client resource expansion. The best answer states that the business is highly competitive, requires expertise, foreign language skills, involves risks like exchange rates and transportation, and client acquisition can be challenging, but opportunities exist with proper market positioning and quality services.
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Professional consultant answers
James LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Foreign trade tax refund consultantConsult
First, understand the market, analyze the demand, policies, regulations, and competitive landscape of the target market. For example, European and American markets have higher quality standards for products. Second, establish a professional team with members familiar with international trade procedures, foreign trade documentation, and language communication. Furthermore, build a good supplier network to ensure stable supply and reliable quality.
In terms of business procedures, after receiving a client's commission, assist them with product inspection, customs declaration, booking shipping space, arranging transportation, and tracking the goods until delivery.
Regarding precautions, pay attention to contract terms, clearly defining the rights and obligations of both parties, especially payment methods and delivery periods. At the same time, closely monitor exchange rate fluctuations and use financial tools to mitigate risks. Stay updated on trade policy changes in various countries to avoid affecting business operations.
Elizabeth LiYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Compliance and risk managerConsult
Financial preparation is also crucial. Overseas export agency business may involve advance payments for goods and transportation costs, so sufficient cash flow is needed to support operations. Otherwise, if the cash flow breaks, the business will be affected.
Joseph ZhouYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Senior foreign trade managerConsult
Familiarity with various trade terms is important, such as FOB, CIF, etc. Different terms define different responsibilities and risk allocations between buyers and sellers. Choosing the wrong term may lead to losses. Select the appropriate trade term based on actual business situations.
William YangYears of service：5Customer Rating：5.0
International logistics consultantConsult
Establishing good logistics partnerships is essential. Reliable logistics ensures timely and safe transportation of goods. Compare several logistics companies in terms of price, service quality, and efficiency before making a choice.
Andrew HuangYears of service：7Customer Rating：5.0
Supply chain optimization expertConsult
Focus on credit management. Maintaining good credit with both suppliers and clients fosters long-term cooperation. Pay suppliers on time and complete client commissions promptly to enhance your reputation in the industry.
Robert ChenYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Customer service consultantConsult
Information management should not be overlooked. Establish a comprehensive business information management system to record orders, transportation, client feedback, etc., facilitating easy access and analysis to optimize business procedures.
Amanda YangYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Cost control consultantConsult
Strengthen risk awareness. Besides exchange rate and policy risks, there may be risks of goods being damaged or lost during transportation. Consider purchasing insurance to mitigate losses.
Emily LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Settlement and payment expertConsult
Continuously learn about industry updates. International trade rules and policies are constantly changing. Staying informed helps adapt to the market and seize business opportunities.
Michelle ChenYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Business coordination consultantConsult
Master certain marketing skills to promote your agency business to potential clients, showcasing your advantages, such as more professional services or better prices, to attract cooperation.