How many points do import agents generally charge? Come and find out!

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I have import business recently and plan to find an import agent to help. But I'm not very clear about how many points import agents generally charge, and I'm worried about being ripped off. I want to ask everyone, what is the usual charging ratio for import agents? Is it charged as a percentage of the cargo value, or are there other charging methods? I hope experienced friends can share, so I can have an idea, thank you!
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There is no fixed standard for the charging ratio of import agents, and it will be affected by multiple factors. The common charging method is to charge a certain percentage of the cargo value, usually around 1%-5%. If the cargo value is high and the operation process is simple, the ratio may be lower; if the cargo is special and the process is complex, the ratio will be higher.

For example, for ordinary daily necessities imports with a conventional process, Zhongmaoda may charge 1%-2%; but if it involves special products such as endangered species products, requiring many complex procedures, the fee may reach 3%-5%.

In addition to charging by cargo value ratio, there is also charging per shipment, which may range from a few hundred to over a thousand yuan per shipment, applicable to businesses with low cargo value but high operation frequency. In addition, there are some hidden fees, such as customs declaration fees, transportation fees, warehousing fees, etc., which need to be clarified with the agent company in advance to avoid subsequent disputes.

References: Beijing Jewelry Import Inspection Agency Fees, Do You Really Understand Them?

I previously hired an import agent for clothing imports, and they charged 3 points, which I felt was quite reasonable, as clothing imports don't involve many complex procedures.

It depends on the type of imported product. For example, for electronic product imports, which involve multiple certifications, the agent's fees may be higher. I heard some charged up to 4 points.

If the import volume is large, the agent's charging ratio may be negotiable for a lower rate. A friend of mine with a large volume managed to negotiate down to 1.5 points.

I think when looking for an agent, you shouldn't just look at the charging percentage, service quality is also very important, otherwise, problems later will be more troublesome.

There are also differences in agent fees in different regions. Coastal areas have fierce competition, so fees may be relatively lower.

I imported a small batch of mechanical parts, and the agent charged per shipment, 800 yuan per shipment, which I felt was acceptable.

Sometimes agents also adjust their fees based on market conditions, so it's good to compare a few more.

If you have long-term import business, signing a long-term contract with an agent might get you a preferential rate.

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

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