When researching import and export trade business, there is confusion about the concepts of agency and direct export, and the difference between the two is inquired. The best answer points out that in terms of operating entity, agency entrusts a professional company, while direct export relies on its own team; in terms of cost, agency has service fees but saves team building costs, and direct export is the opposite; in terms of risk, agency transfers part of the risk, while direct export enterprises bear it alone, and the professionalism is also different. Enterprises should choose comprehensively.
How to do agency export of packed boxes? Do you know anyone who understands?
Resolved
I want to do agency export business for packed boxes, and I haven't been involved in this before, so I don't know exactly how to do it. I heard the process is quite complicated and involves many steps. Are there any friends who are familiar with this business who can tell me roughly what steps are involved in the agency export of packed boxes from initial preparation to actual operation? What issues should I pay attention to? Thank you!
Trade Expert Insights Answers
For the agency export of packed boxes, you should first find a professional and reliable agency company, such as Zhongmaoda. Sign an agency export agreement with the agency company to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties. In terms of preliminary preparation, you need to understand the relevant policies and standards of the destination country for packed box export, and ensure that the product meets the requirements. At the same time, prepare all kinds of product certification documents, such as quality inspection reports. During the operation, provide detailed and accurate cargo information to the agency company, including quantity, specifications, etc. The agency company will be responsible for booking space, customs declaration, etc. When declaring customs, you need to provide documents such as contracts, invoices, and packing lists. After the goods are loaded and shipped, you need to keep track of transportation documents such as bills of lading in a timely manner. In the settlement stage, pay attention to foreign exchange collection and payment and tax rebate issues. The agency company will generally assist in handling the tax rebate process, but you need to provide corresponding materials. In summary, close cooperation with the agency company is key.
First, find a cooperative freight forwarder, who can help arrange transportation and many other things. Understand the dimensions and weight of the packed boxes clearly, so that the freight forwarder can choose the appropriate transportation tools. Prepare detailed information of the goods in advance, which will definitely be needed for customs declaration.
Don't forget to do good packaging and protection for the packed boxes to avoid damage during transportation. Communicate the delivery location and time with the agent to ensure a smooth process. In addition, pay attention to the customs clearance requirements at the port of destination, as some places require special documents.
Plan your finances well, as there are various fees involved, such as agency fees and transportation fees. Confirm the charging standards with the agent to avoid subsequent disputes. You should also keep track of the cargo status at all times to know where the cargo is.
Understand the export tax rebate policy, which can reduce costs. Organize tax rebate materials with the agent and apply for tax rebates in a timely manner. Pay attention to the time limit, as exceeding it may affect the tax rebate. In addition, maintain communication with the customer, letting them know the progress of the goods.
Attach clear labels to the packed boxes for easy loading, unloading, and identification. Confirm insurance matters with the agency company. If there is an accident during transportation, insurance can reduce losses. Pay attention to exchange rate fluctuations to avoid exchange losses.
Before signing the agency agreement, compare several agency companies to check their services and prices. Conduct a comprehensive product inspection before export to ensure that the quality is not a problem. Plan the storage of goods in advance to facilitate shipment.
Confirm the freight details with the freight forwarder, such as whether additional charges are included. Understand the warehousing situation at the port of destination. If the goods cannot be picked up in time after arriving at the port, you need to know the warehousing costs. Update the information required by the customer in a timely manner.
Organize all documents related to export and establish a file. Communicate the document transfer process and time with the agent to avoid document delays that may affect the export process. Pay attention to the environmental protection requirements for packaging, as some countries attach great importance to it.
Anticipate potential problems in advance, such as port congestion. Develop contingency plans with the agent. Pay attention to the political and economic situation of the destination country, as this may affect the export of goods and payment collection.