Companies involved in import and export business generate agency fees and want to understand tax regulations, including tax categories, tax rates, processes, and required documents. The best answer points out that import and export agency fees typically fall under brokerage and agency services in modern services. General taxpayers have a tax rate of 6%, and small-scale taxpayers have a rate of 3%. Tax is declared through the electronic tax bureau during the reporting period, and documents such as contracts and invoices are required. There are also corresponding requirements when withholding taxes for foreign companies.
What Documents Are Needed for Import and Export Agency? A Comprehensive Guide!
Resolved
I plan to hire an import and export agency to handle my goods' import and export affairs, but I'm not very clear about what specific documents I need to prepare. I'd like to ask everyone, generally speaking, what documents do import and export agencies require? Are the required documents the same for all types of goods import and export? I hope experienced friends can give me a detailed explanation. Thank you!
Trade Expert Insights Answers
Generally speaking, import and export agencies require the following types of documents:
First are commercial documents, including the commercial invoice, which needs to detail the goods description, quantity, value, etc.; the packing list, to specify the packaging of the goods; and the bill of lading or air waybill, which serves as proof of shipment.
Second are official documents. If the goods require commodity inspection, a commodity inspection and customs clearance certificate must be provided. For goods managed by permits, import and export permits are required, such as for some special chemicals, endangered flora and fauna products, etc.
Third are contractual documents, namely the import and export contract, which clarifies the rights and obligations of both the buyer and the seller.
In addition, for certain special goods, a certificate of origin, quality inspection certificate, etc., may also be required. The required documents for importing and exporting different types of goods vary. For example, food imports might also require a health certificate, sample labels, etc. In summary, specific document requirements should be determined based on the characteristics of the goods and trade policies.
A power of attorney for customs declaration is also required, which is an important document for authorizing the import and export agency to declare customs, clarifying the entrusted matters and the responsibilities of both parties.
If the goods have wooden packaging, a fumigation certificate is required to prevent the spread of harmful organisms with the goods.
For goods involving intellectual property rights, intellectual property proof documents should be prepared to avoid infringement risks.
A foreign exchange settlement form may also be used in import and export businesses for foreign exchange management and settlement.
Some goods may require the provision of product manuals, so that the agency can better understand the product characteristics and handle related procedures.
A certificate of origin is sometimes indispensable, especially when enjoying preferential tariff policies, as it can prove the country of origin of the goods.
Imported goods may also require a delivery order for the agency to pick up the goods.
For products in specific industries, such as medical devices, relevant industry qualification documents are also needed.