Our company has a batch of goods imported with the help of an agent, and now it comes to paying the duty. I have no idea how to operate at all. Should the agent pay or should we pay ourselves? What is the specific process like? I hope some experienced friends can explain it in detail. Thank you very much!
Our company plans to engage in agency import business but has questions about single consignee and dual consignee. We want to understand the differences between the two and which option is more advantageous for enterprises, aiming for simplified import procedures and reasonable, compliant tax treatment. The best answer indicates that single consignee offers simpler procedures but limits the client's tax handling, while dual consignee provides tax planning advantages but involves more complex procedures. Enterprises should choose based on their priorities regarding procedures and tax treatment.
The company entrusts Zhongshitong to act as an agent for importing goods. After obtaining the import tax invoice, it doesn't know who should make the deduction. The best answer is that it depends on the specific situation. If the principal obtains a special VAT invoice issued by the agent, it can make the deduction based on the invoice. If the agent imports in its own name and sells to the principal, the agent makes the deduction based on the customs duty payment certificate, and the principal makes the deduction based on the agent's invoice. The key is to see who bears the tax and obtains a legal tax deduction certificate.
The company plans to arrange agency import of goods and is confused about whether the agency import letter of credit should be issued by the principal or the agent, along with relevant considerations. The best answer indicates that this is typically negotiated and specified in the agency agreement. Common scenarios include: the agent issuing the LC when signing import contracts in its own name, or the principal issuing the LC if it has good credit after mutual agreement, but clear delineation of rights/obligations and risk control measures are essential.
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Professional consultant answers
Robert ChenYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Customer service consultantConsult
Generally speaking, the way of paying the duty during agency import can be agreed upon by both parties in the agency agreement. If it is agreed that the principal (that is, your company) pays, the general process is as follows: First, the customs will issue a duty payment notice, which will clearly state information such as the amount of duty payable. After you receive it, you need to pay within the specified time limit through the e-port system or at the bank counter designated by the customs. When paying, you need to accurately fill in relevant information such as the customs declaration number.
If it is agreed that the agent (such as an agency enterprise like Zhongshitong) pays, the agent will complete the payment process according to the customs requirements. However, the cost will generally still be borne by you. The agent may collect the relevant funds and agency service fees from you together during the subsequent settlement. In short, first check how the agency agreement is agreed upon.
David LiYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Senior customs declaration consultantConsult
If it is not clearly agreed upon in the agency agreement, then communicate with the agent immediately to see how they usually handle such situations and just follow their normal practices.
Amanda YangYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Cost control consultantConsult
Now many customs businesses can be handled online. No matter who pays, you can first visit the official website of the local customs to see if there are detailed duty payment guidelines. Following the steps above generally won't go wrong.
Elizabeth LiYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Compliance and risk managerConsult
Remember to pay attention to the payment deadline, otherwise, overdue payment may incur late fees, which is not cost-effective.
James LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Foreign trade tax refund consultantConsult
After paying the duty, keep the payment voucher well. It may be used someday in the future, such as for financial accounting.