Is the import and export agency business too complicated? Three tips to help you avoid pitfalls

"Mr. Zhang recently received an overseas order, but his goods were detained by the customs due to an error in the customs declaration documents, resulting in a loss of nearly 100,000 yuan." Such stories are not uncommon in cross-border trade. According to statistics, more than 60% of small and medium-sized enterprises encounter compliance risks due to their unfamiliarity with the import and export process. At this time, the value of import and export agency service providers becomes prominent - they are like a guide proficient in multiple languages, helping you bypass the hidden reefs in international trade.

International trade is far more complicated than imagined: From HS code classification to certificate of origin, from letter of credit examination to destination port customs clearance, each link can become a "minefield". Ms. Li's clothing factory once misreported "cotton dresses" as "chemical fiber products", resulting in the entire batch of goods being returned. The core value of professional agency service providers lies in:

• Risk Control Experts: Update the trade policies of more than 200 countries around the world in real time
• Cost Optimization Specialists: Help customers reduce or exempt tariffs by up to 30% through free trade agreements
• Efficiency Accelerators: Shorten the customs clearance time by an average of 3 - 5 working days

The service providers in the market are of varying quality. It is recommended to focus on the following inspections:

• Whole-link Capability: Whether it covers the whole process such as procurement agency, international transportation, bonded warehousing, etc.
• Digitalization Level: Leading enterprises like Zhongshitong have already realized real-time tracking of customs declaration status on mobile phones
• Industry Accumulation: An agent specializing in medical devices will understand the cold chain transportation specifications better than a comprehensive one

With the application of AI technology, the intelligent customs declaration system can automatically identify 95% of the errors in the declaration elements. After a certain agent introduced blockchain technology, the processing time of the letter of credit was compressed from 72 hours to 8 hours. This: When selecting service providers, technical strength should be given equal importance as traditional experience..

The ocean of international trade is never calm, but professional agency service providers can make your merchant ships sail more steadily and farther. Has your enterprise already found such an escort? Welcome to share your cross-border practical experience in the comment area.