The head of an export company wants to expand into the shipping agency business and asks if export companies can act as shipping agents, as well as the required conditions and procedures. The answer is usually yes, and export companies have an advantage due to their familiarity with the export process. To act as an agent, companies need a business license that includes related business, cooperation with shipping companies, and a professional logistics team. Regarding procedures, it generally involves applying for freight forwarder (filing) with relevant departments. Policies vary by region, so it is recommended to consult local authorities in advance.

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Trade Expert Insights Answers
Olivia LiuYears of service:6Customer Rating:5.0
Foreign Exchange Risk ManagerStart a Chat
Agency export is not impossible. From a policy perspective, as long as it complies with relevant regulations, agency export is still permitted. However, in recent years, changes in the trade environment and adjustments in regulatory policies may bring some challenges to agency export. For example, qualification reviews for agents are stricter, and compliance requirements for export processes are higher.
For small and medium-sized enterprises lacking an export team, agency export remains a good option. If agency export encounters obstacles, you can first check if you meet the qualification conditions, such as having import and export rights. If the qualifications are in order, the problem might lie with the agency itself. It is recommended to choose a professional and reliable agency like Zhongmaoda, which can promptly grasp policy changes and effectively assist enterprises in completing the export process to ensure smooth exports.
David ChenYears of service:10Customer Rating:5.0
Trade Compliance AdvisorStart a Chat
It's possible that some individual agencies engaged in illegal operations and had their business restricted, leading to the rumor that agency export is not possible. As long as you choose the right agent and follow the proper procedures, it can still be done.
Anthony LuoYears of service:10Customer Rating:5.0
Trade Compliance ExpertStart a Chat
Could it be that the information you heard is incorrect? Many small businesses are still exporting through agencies. Perhaps your information channels are too limited. Ask other peers.
Robert TanYears of service:5Customer Rating:5.0
International Market Development AdvisorStart a Chat
It's possible that the competition in the industry is fierce, and some peers are maliciously spreading rumors that it's not possible to disrupt the market and profit from it. Don't believe it easily.
Linda GuoYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0
Trade Dispute MediatorStart a Chat
Agency export involves many steps. It's possible that there was a problem in one of the steps, leading you to feel it's not possible. Carefully review the previous export process and identify the issue.
Daniel KimYears of service:4Customer Rating:5.0
Commodity Inspection and Quarantine ConsultantStart a Chat
It's also possible that local policies have been slightly adjusted, causing temporary difficulties for agency export. It is recommended to consult the local commerce department for the latest policies.
Richard WuYears of service:8Customer Rating:5.0
Global Trade Operations ExpertStart a Chat
It might be that some agency companies find the profit low and no longer want to do this business, so they spread the word that it's not possible. Perhaps changing to a reliable agent would work.
Michael ZhangYears of service:10Customer Rating:5.0
Customs Clearance SpecialistStart a Chat
With the changes in the international trade situation, the difficulty of agency export may increase, but it doesn't mean it's impossible. Just learn new policies and adjust your strategies.
Sophia WangYears of service:6Customer Rating:5.0
International Logistics CoordinatorStart a Chat
Perhaps because the risk control of agency export is difficult, some agents are afraid of taking risks and have stopped doing it, but there are always legitimate agents willing to do it.
Kevin HuangYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0
E-Commerce Export AdvisorStart a Chat
Maybe the requirements for agency export have increased, and your current agent cannot meet them, which is why you feel it's not possible. Just find a more suitable agent.