Can self - export earn 20% more than agency export?

Mr. Zhang recently received a large overseas order, but was puzzled when choosing the export method - self - export sounds more autonomous, but agency export seems to save tax. How many fiscal and tax know - hows are hidden behind this? Today, we will help you figure out this account in 10 minutes.

Self - export is like a self - driving tour: The enterprise handles the entire process of customs declaration, foreign exchange collection, and tax rebate by itself, and needs to be equipped with a foreign trade team, but can control every link. While agency export is more like a chartered car service, entrusting professional institutions such as "Zhongshitong" to handle the full set of export procedures, and only paying the service fee is required.

• Core advantage of self - export: Large profit margin, process controllable
• Core advantage of agency export: Quick start with zero experience, risk transfer

Through the real - case comparison of Ms. Li (annual export volume of 20 million yuan):

• Value - added tax rebate: Self - export can get a 13% rebate, and the agency export has the same tax rebate rate but needs to deduct a 1.5% service fee
• Income tax planning: Self - export can stack the preferential policies of high - tech enterprises, while agency export can only be deducted according to the service fee ratio
• Hidden costs: Self - export needs to bear artificial costs such as document management and foreign exchange verification, about 3%, while agency export already includes these in the service fee

1. Export scale: If the annual export volume is less than 5 million, agency export is more cost - effective; if it exceeds 20 million, self - export is recommended

2. Product characteristics: Products with a high tax rebate rate (above 13%) are preferred for self - export, and those with a low tax rebate rate can consider agency export

3. Risk control ability: Enterprises that are not familiar with foreign exchange control and trade terms can avoid compliance risks through agency export

Combat skills revealed by senior consultants of "Zhongshitong":

• Use agency export to test new markets and switch to self - export after maturity
• Realize tax deferral through offshore company + agency export
• Self - export enterprises can apply for AEO certification to obtain a faster tax rebate speed

There is no absolutely correct answer, only the choice that is most suitable for the current development stage. It is recommended to first test the water with agency export. When the monthly export volume is stable above 800,000, then form a professional team to transform to self - export. After all, the tax saved is real net profit.

What confusion have you encountered in choosing the export method? Welcome to share your practical experience in the comment section.