The company plans to expand overseas business and is confused about the differences between agency export and direct export, wanting to understand the disparities in operational processes, costs, and risks. The best answer states that agency export is handled by an agency company, while direct export is completed by the enterprise itself. The operational processes, costs, and risks differ for both. For example, with agency export, the agency company is responsible for many procedures and requires agency fees; with direct export, the enterprise forms its own team and bears risks independently.
How to Operate Agency Export Business, Are There Detailed Steps?
Resolved
Our company recently plans to start agency export business, but we have never done it before and have absolutely no experience. I'd like to ask how exactly agency export business should be conducted? From preliminary preparation to the export process, and then to subsequent closing work, I hope there can be a detailed introduction to the steps, so we can have a clear understanding, know where to start, and avoid taking detours.
Trade Expert Insights Answers
Richard WuYears of service：8Customer Rating：5.0
Global Trade Operations ExpertStart a Chat
Agency export business is generally divided into the following steps. First is preliminary preparation: an agency export agreement must be signed with the principal, clarifying the rights and obligations of both parties, and simultaneously understanding relevant policies and market conditions for the exported products, etc. Secondly, perform export process operations: after receiving the goods information provided by the principal, arrange for booking and customs declaration, prepare the necessary documents for customs declaration, such as invoices, packing lists, customs declaration forms, etc. After the goods are loaded and shipped, promptly obtain transport documents such as bills of lading. Then, receive and settle foreign exchange: after the agent receives the foreign exchange, settle it according to the agreement and pay the funds to the principal. Finally, follow-up closing: handle export tax refunds and provide relevant information to the principal for financial accounting and tax processing. Throughout the entire process, attention should be paid to the accuracy and completeness of documents, as well as communication and coordination with all parties, such as the principal, freight forwarder, and customs.
Olivia LiuYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Foreign Exchange Risk ManagerStart a Chat
Don't forget to understand the product's quality standards and inspection and quarantine requirements to prevent goods from being returned due to non-compliance. Also, plan logistics and transportation in advance and choose a reliable freight forwarder.
Kevin HuangYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
E-Commerce Export AdvisorStart a Chat
When signing the agency export agreement, clauses regarding fee settlement, risk assumption, and other terms must be clearly defined, otherwise, disputes can easily arise.
Thomas LiYears of service：7Customer Rating：5.0
Import Licensing AdvisorStart a Chat
During the foreign exchange collection process, pay attention to changes in foreign exchange policies, promptly handle relevant procedures, and ensure fund security and smooth arrival.
Sophia WangYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
International Logistics CoordinatorStart a Chat
The export tax refund process is very important; be familiar with tax refund policies and procedures, prepare documents and declare according to regulations, otherwise, it may affect the progress of the tax refund.
Robert TanYears of service：5Customer Rating：5.0
International Market Development AdvisorStart a Chat
Maintain close communication with the principal, promptly report business progress, and jointly negotiate solutions when issues arise.
Michael ZhangYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Customs Clearance SpecialistStart a Chat
Pay attention to the packaging of goods; it must meet transportation requirements to prevent damage during transit.
Emma ZhaoYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Export Documentation SpecialistStart a Chat
Information for customs declaration must be accurate, otherwise, it will delay exports and may even face penalties.
Linda GuoYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Trade Dispute MediatorStart a Chat
Various documents involved in agency export must be properly preserved for subsequent review and audit.