How should an import general VAT invoice from a customs broker be issued?

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Our company is involved in import business and needs to engage a customs broker to issue import general VAT invoices. However, we are not very familiar with this process. We'd like to ask how import general VAT invoices for customs brokerage are issued. Are they issued directly to us by the customs broker? What content is usually included on the invoice? Are there any specific tax rate regulations? We would be very grateful if anyone with knowledge could provide a detailed explanation!
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Daniel Kim
Daniel KimYears of service:4Customer Rating:5.0

Commodity Inspection and Quarantine ConsultantStart a Chat

When a customs broker issues an import general VAT invoice, it is typically issued by the customs broker company to the principal, which is your company.

The invoice content will generally cover specific items such as customs brokerage fees and advance tax payments. For instance, customs brokerage fees should be truthfully entered as an item; if import duties, VAT, etc., were paid on your behalf, they will also be listed separately.

Regarding tax rates, customs brokerage fees generally fall under modern service industries, with a VAT rate of 6%. If advance import duties are involved, duty itself does not have a "tax rate" in the same sense; it is calculated based on the customs codes of different goods, which correspond to different duty rates. For advance import VAT, the rate for general goods is 13%, while some agricultural products and others apply a 9% rate. Customs brokers must accurately follow these regulations when issuing invoices, and you can verify the invoice accordingly after receiving it.

References: Shocking! Is Shanghai Export Customs Declaration Agency Fee Standard Really This Complicated?
David Chen
David ChenYears of service:10Customer Rating:5.0

Trade Compliance AdvisorStart a Chat

Generally, when a customs broker issues an invoice, they will first confirm the invoicing details with you, such as company name and tax ID. Accurate information is essential for smooth invoice issuance.

Kevin Huang
Kevin HuangYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0

E-Commerce Export AdvisorStart a Chat

Remember to ensure the customs broker issues the invoice promptly, as delays could affect your company's financial processing and cost accounting. The invoicing speed can also be an indicator of the agent's service efficiency.

Richard Wu
Richard WuYears of service:8Customer Rating:5.0

Global Trade Operations ExpertStart a Chat

The invoiced amount must match the actual expenses incurred to avoid future issues arising from discrepancies. Both parties should confirm all expense details in advance.

Emma Zhao
Emma ZhaoYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0

Export Documentation SpecialistStart a Chat

If you have any questions about the invoice content, communicate with the customs broker promptly; they are obligated to clearly explain the origin of each fee.

Robert Tan
Robert TanYears of service:5Customer Rating:5.0

International Market Development AdvisorStart a Chat

Keep the invoice safe, as it is an important financial document that will be useful for future tax inspections or other related matters.

Thomas Li
Thomas LiYears of service:7Customer Rating:5.0

Import Licensing AdvisorStart a Chat

When customs brokers issue import general VAT invoices, they must comply with relevant tax regulations. You can also familiarize yourself with these in advance to have a clear understanding.

Olivia Liu
Olivia LiuYears of service:6Customer Rating:5.0

Foreign Exchange Risk ManagerStart a Chat

Pay attention to whether the invoice format is standard and if all items are completely filled in, as non-standard invoices may affect their usability.

Linda Guo
Linda GuoYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0

Trade Dispute MediatorStart a Chat

If the customs broker provides additional services, such as expedited customs clearance, these fees should also be clearly reflected on the invoice.

User-submitted questions and answers reflect personal opinions, not the official stance of this website.

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