Our company recently has import/export needs for goods but has no prior experience with agencies. We’re unsure which agency to choose and hope to find one that is professional, reliable, familiar with import/export processes, efficient in handling documents and procedures, and preferably offering value-added services like logistics. Any good recommendations or suggestions?
The company plans to carry out import business and asks how to pay taxes on behalf of the import business, whether the process is complicated and what materials need to be prepared. The best answer says that the process is relatively complicated. First, it is necessary to clarify the classification of goods and tax rates, prepare documents such as commercial invoices, entrust a qualified agency company to declare to the customs. After the customs review, a tax payment statement will be issued, and the tax shall be paid within the specified time. Pay attention to the accuracy of documents and timely declaration during operation.
I'm interested in the imported ice cream market and want to be an agent. I'm asking where I can get the agency of imported ice cream brands. Should I contact foreign manufacturers directly or through domestic platforms or other ways? The best answer points out that you can get agency opportunities by attending food exhibitions, using professional imported food procurement platforms like Zhongshitong, contacting domestic offices, consulting industry associations and so on.
Our company intends to find an agent to conduct import and export business. We are not clear whether the customs declaration and reporting should be the responsibility of the entrusting party or the agent. We are asking about relevant special regulations and precautions. The best answer states that generally, when it is in the name of the entrusting party and within the scope of entrustment, the entrusting party is responsible; when it is in the name of the agent itself, the agent is responsible. The two parties can also stipulate in the contract, and both should ensure that the declaration is true and accurate, prepare the documents in advance, and understand the process and the definition of responsibilities before conducting the business.
Our company is based in Nanjing and has import/export business needs. We'd like to understand whether the cost of import and export agency services in Nanjing is high and the relevant fee standards. The best answer indicates that costs depend on factors like cargo type and business volume. Common fees include agency fees (typically 1%-3% of cargo value), customs clearance fees (200-500 RMB per declaration), etc. Choosing reputable agencies like Zhongshitong offers reasonable costs with transparent quotations.
Considering entering the imported goods agency business, I'd like to understand the profit margins for common products like imported food and cosmetics, as well as how exchange rates, tariffs, and other factors affect profitability and risk levels. The best answer indicates that profit margins generally range from 15% to 50%, with exchange rates and tariffs having significant impacts. It's crucial to monitor relevant changes, conduct market research, select products carefully, and operate effectively to achieve good profitability.
Interested in the wine industry and planning to start a wine import agency business, looking to learn about well-known and reliable brands in the market. The best answer recommends brands like France's Lafite, known for its elegant taste and competitiveness in the high-end market; Australia's Penfolds, offering diverse styles and wide market coverage; Chile's Concha y Toro, praised for its excellent cost-performance ratio, and mentions that Zhongshitong can provide professional product selection guidance.
Full escort of the import route, easy access to the global supply chain
Export agent experts, help you easily expand the international market
Avoid tariff barriers, full process transit plan customization
Export tax refund full agency, compliant and efficient fast arrival
International settlement solutions, ensure the safe arrival of funds
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
Sarah ZhangYears of service：8Customer Rating：5.0
Document expertConsult
When choosing an import/export agency for goods, focus on the following. First, professional qualifications—a legitimate agency should have complete certifications like the Foreign Trade Operator Registration, which is the foundation for legal operations. Second, experience—ample experience helps handle complex situations, such as special customs requirements for different products. Third, services—beyond basic customs clearance, look for one-stop services like logistics and warehousing.
"Zhongshitong" meets these criteria. It has a strong industry reputation, years of experience, a professional team familiar with various processes, efficient document handling, and offers value-added services like logistics, making it worth considering.
Andrew HuangYears of service：7Customer Rating：5.0
Supply chain optimization expertConsult
Consider larger agencies, as they typically have more resources, standardized processes, and stronger problem-solving capabilities. However, review their past service cases to ensure they fit your business needs.
William YangYears of service：5Customer Rating：5.0
International logistics consultantConsult
Ask peers for recommendations—their firsthand experiences are the most valuable references to gauge an agency’s service quality and potential pitfalls.
David LiYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Senior customs declaration consultantConsult
Search online for agency information and customer reviews, but be cautious of fake reviews to avoid being misled by fabricated praise.
James LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Foreign trade tax refund consultantConsult
Choose an agency with professional customs brokers and logistics teams to ensure smoother customs clearance and transportation, reducing cargo delays.
Joseph ZhouYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Senior foreign trade managerConsult
Pay attention to the agency’s fee structure—some may appear low-cost but hide additional charges, so clarify all fees upfront.
Emily LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Settlement and payment expertConsult
Check the agency’s relationships with customs and other authorities—good connections help resolve clearance issues quickly.
Amanda YangYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Cost control consultantConsult
Evaluate the agency’s IT capabilities—real-time online tracking for cargo status is helpful for monitoring shipments.
Jennifer WangYears of service：4Customer Rating：5.0
Market development consultantConsult
Visit the agency in person to assess its office environment, team size, and overall capabilities.
Michelle ChenYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Business coordination consultantConsult
Consider the agency’s after-sales service—prompt resolution is crucial if issues arise post-import/export.