What services does an import and export agent provide?

We are a factory that has just started doing foreign trade and want to entrust an agency to handle our import and export business, but we're not entirely clear about the specific procedures covered by their services. We're worried about encountering unprofessional agents who might cause delays in customs clearance or additional fees, and we're also concerned about unclear responsibilities and obligations in the contract. Could you please explain in detail what services an agent typically provides?

Jan 31, 2026 at 08:021743 Answers

What services does an import and export agency provide?

Our company is doing exports for the first time and wants to find an agent, but we're not sure what exactly the import and export agency services include. We're worried about missing out on key steps or being scammed by an unreliable agent. Could you please explain it in detail?

Jan 31, 2026 at 07:271483 Answers

For those who have import and export rights, which agents should they look for?

Our company just obtained import and export rights, and we initially thought we could handle all the procedures ourselves. However, industry peers advised us that we still need to hire an agent for certain tasks. We would like to consult experts: After obtaining import and export rights, which procedures absolutely require an agent? Which types of agents should we primarily engage? How can we determine whether an agent is reliable? We're particularly concerned about encountering unprofessional agents who might cause delays or even pose risks.

Jan 31, 2026 at 02:041483 Answers

What's the difference between FOB Shenzhen and FOB Hong Kong? I'd like to ask for your advice on this.

We have a batch of goods being shipped from our Shenzhen factory. The client requested that we quote the FOB Hong Kong price, stating that it would make it more convenient for them to pick up the goods. However, after checking, I found that transporting the goods from Shenzhen to the Hong Kong port still requires customs declaration and transportation. How should we calculate the risks and costs involved in this process? What is the difference between this and FOB Shenzhen pricing?

Jan 31, 2026 at 01:382143 Answers

What services does an import and export agency provide?

Our company is just starting to engage in foreign trade and we're looking for an import and export agent to cooperate with, but we're not sure what specific services the agency can assist us with. We're worried about missing out on any crucial steps. Could you please explain in detail what services the agency can provide?

Jan 30, 2026 at 06:011343 Answers

Solar Power Bank Sourcing

We plan to source solar power banks from Shenzhen for Germany. First time with this product. Q1: Special customs/certification requirements? Q2: Is Air or Sea more cost-effective? Q3: Which terms are essential when negotiating with suppliers?

Jan 29, 2026 at 09:141963 Answers

What are the Changshu import & export agency companies?

I am a textile owner in Changshu and want a local agency, but searching 'Changshu import & export agency companies' shows dozens. How to screen to avoid shell companies or compliance risks?

Jan 29, 2026 at 08:411683 Answers

What are the toy import/export agencies?

Our trading company wants to expand into toy I/E agency. We are unsure about qualifications, customs procedures, or how to negotiate with factories and foreign clients. Can you detail how to start?

Jan 29, 2026 at 08:211683 Answers

Mandatory implementation of SNI Industrial National Standards for 53 products in Indonesia

We export small appliances to Indonesia. Our customer warned us that Indonesia is mandating SNI standards for 53 product categories, and clearance won't happen without it. We have hundreds of thousands of dollars in orders in production, and two containers at the port. Questions: Which products are these? Will our in-transit goods be returned? How to get SNI certification quickly? Does DDP terms mean we bear all certification costs and risks?

Jan 29, 2026 at 08:082073 Answers

What do these two sentences in the mechanical drawing mean?

I just entered the mechanical foreign trade industry. The customer's drawing is marked with 'All sharp edges to be deburred' and 'Surface finish: Ra 1.6'. What do these two sentences specifically refer to? Will they affect customs declaration, freight, and price negotiations with the customer?

Jan 29, 2026 at 03:561333 Answers

What is the difference between FOB price and ex-factory price?

Our factory has always done domestic sales and is used to quoting ex-factory prices. Now a foreign trade customer is asking for an FOB price. What is the difference between the two? If the conversion is wrong, will it lead to a loss?

Jan 29, 2026 at 03:101733 Answers

What are the techniques and methods for import and export agency services?

We are a new company that has just obtained import and export rights and want to start an agency business. Could you please share some core skills and methods, especially in terms of compliance and risk control, logistics cost control, and client negotiation?

Jan 28, 2026 at 09:451643 Answers