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For those who have import and export rights, which agents should they look for?
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TRACKING NO. 20260131 / GLOBAL Zhongshen Trade · 23+ Years of Expert Trade Agency
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No import/export license, customs delays,
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Our company has just completed the registration process.I thought I could handle all the procedures myself, but colleagues said I still need to hire an agent for certain tasks. I'd like to ask the experts: After obtaining import and export rights, which steps require hiring an agent? Which types of agents should I mainly choose? How can I determine if an agent is reliable? I'm most concerned about encountering unprofessional agents who might delay progress or even pose risks.
Linda GaoYears of service：7Customer Rating：5.0
Documentation SupervisorStart a Chat
Even if you have import and export rights，you must still entrust a professional customs declaration agency with the declaration process，which is a mandatory requirement of the customs authority. Three types of agency qualifications are subject to key verification: First，the customs declaration enterprise must be registered with the General Administration of Customs and hold a Certificate of Registration for Customs Declaration Units，Second，for commodities involving inspection and quarantine，you must engage an agent with inspection and quarantine qualifications，Third，for special commodities such as food and dangerous goods，the agent must also have experience in handling corresponding permits. It is essential to verify the agent's qualifications through both the "Foreign Trade Operator Registration" system of the Ministry of Commerce and the official website of the General Administration of Customs. Be cautious of promises of "connection-based customs clearance"，and all entrustments must be formalized with a written agreement that clearly defines legal responsibilities.
Grace WangYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Senior Foreign Trade ConsultantStart a Chat
With import and export rights, freight forwarders not only shouldn’t cut corners but should instead choose their partners carefully. In practice, shipping companies and airlines only deal with first-tier freight forwarders. If you book directly, you’ll face higher prices and uncertain space availability. The key is to work with NVOCCs (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers) with first-generation qualifications, as they can directly sign bills of lading and control shipping space. For ocean freight full containers, it’s advisable to choose a forwarder with an owner’s contract; for air freight, opt for one with IATA qualifications; and for bulk cargo and LCL, evaluate their warehouse integration capabilities. Remember, the value of a freight forwarder lies in resource integration, not just basic logistics services. A good forwarder can help reduce your logistics costs by 10-15%.
Daniel XuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Director of Import & Export OperationsStart a Chat
When selecting an agent, it's like choosing a business partner—don't just focus on quotes. During negotiations, use "stress tests" to assess their professionalism: for example, ask, "How quickly can you arrive at the scene if there's a customs inspection?" or "How did you help clients handle the surge in inspection rates last time?" Regarding payment methods, insist on monthly or partial payments, never prepay large sums upfront. This not only serves as risk management but also tests the agent's financial strength. The contract must clearly specify service response timelines, compensation standards for document errors, and liability allocations for force majeure events. Reliable agents will accept these terms; otherwise, be cautious.