How much do import and export customs declaration agency companies usually charge? How is it calculated?
Our company recently has import and export business and plans to hire a customs declaration agency to handle the procedures, but we are not very clear about the market rates. Could you tell us how much import and export customs declaration agency companies charge? Are the fees fixed, or do they vary depending on different types of business? We hope someone with experience can share the general fee range and charging basis so we can have a better idea. Thank you!
Professional consultant answers
James LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Foreign trade tax refund consultantConsult
There is no fixed standard for the fees charged by import and export customs declaration agency companies, as they are influenced by various factors. First, the type of goods matters—for example, ordinary goods and goods under special supervision have different fees, with the latter involving more complex procedures and higher charges. Second, the value of the goods also plays a role; high-value goods may entail higher declaration risks, leading to increased fees. Additionally, the mode of transportation affects the cost, as customs procedures differ for sea and air freight, with air freight being more time-sensitive and potentially more expensive.
Generally, the customs declaration agency fee for ordinary goods ranges from 200 to 800 RMB per shipment. If special services are required, such as inspection assistance or tax advance payment, additional fees will apply. Inspection assistance may cost around 300 - 1,000 RMB per instance, while tax advance payment may be charged as a percentage of the advanced amount. Companies like Zhongshitong provide detailed quotes based on specific business requirements.
Michelle ChenYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Business coordination consultantConsult
Fees also vary depending on the customs port, as different ports have different operational procedures and workload levels. Busy ports with high volumes may offer lower prices, while smaller ports may charge more. For example, some remote smaller ports may charge 100 - 200 RMB more than standard ports.
David LiYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Senior customs declaration consultantConsult
The quantity of goods also affects the fee, with bulk shipments potentially qualifying for discounts. Smaller shipments may incur relatively higher fees. For instance, the customs declaration fee for 500 pieces of ordinary goods may be discounted compared to 50 pieces.
Amanda YangYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Cost control consultantConsult
The trade method is another key factor. General trade and processing trade have different customs declaration requirements, with the latter being more complex and potentially costing 100 - 300 RMB more in agency fees.
Elizabeth LiYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Compliance and risk managerConsult
Long-term clients may receive discounts from customs declaration agencies. For example, signing an annual cooperation agreement could result in a 9 - 9.5% discount on the original fee.
Sarah ZhangYears of service：8Customer Rating：5.0
Document expertConsult
Additional value-added services may increase costs, such as customs consultation or document organization, which may cost 50 - 200 RMB per service.
Robert ChenYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Customer service consultantConsult
Sometimes, the packaging of goods also matters. If the packaging does not meet requirements and the agency helps with adjustments, a packaging modification fee of around 100 - 300 RMB may apply.
William YangYears of service：5Customer Rating：5.0
International logistics consultantConsult
Urgent customs declaration requests may incur an additional expedited fee of 100 - 500 RMB.
Jennifer WangYears of service：4Customer Rating：5.0
Market development consultantConsult
Fees may also differ by region, with more economically developed areas having more competitive pricing, while less developed regions may charge higher fees.
Joseph ZhouYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Senior foreign trade managerConsult
For goods requiring special permits or certificates, the cost of obtaining these documents will be included in the total fee, with each permit potentially costing 500 - 2,000 RMB.