New to LCL freight forwarding, inquiring about the specific export process, from preparing documents to cargo loading. The best answer states that the process includes cargo solicitation, arranging warehousing, booking space, preparing customs declaration documents, customs declaration, and loading for shipment. Communication with all parties and attention to special regulations are crucial at each stage to ensure smooth export.
How to Obtain a Customs Declaration Form for Agent Export?
Resolved
Our company has engaged an agent to assist with exporting goods, and I'd like to know how to obtain the customs declaration form when using an export agent. Previously, our company handled exports ourselves, so we are quite familiar with the procedures. However, this time we've hired an agent, and I'm not entirely clear about the specific process and method for getting the customs declaration form from them. I hope those who are knowledgeable can explain in detail: does the agent provide it directly to us after customs declaration, or do we need to collect it ourselves from relevant departments? Are there any specific points that require particular attention during this process?
Trade Expert Insights Answers
When you choose agent export, obtaining the customs declaration form generally works as follows. First, the agent will declare to customs based on the cargo information and other documents you provide. After customs completes a series of procedures such as inspection, review, and releases the goods, the agent will usually download and print the customs declaration form directly from the electronic port.
You need to communicate with the agent in advance about the time and method for obtaining the customs declaration form. Generally, the agent can obtain the customs declaration form approximately 3-5 working days after the goods successfully complete export customs clearance. Once the agent obtains it, they will promptly provide it to you, possibly first as an electronic scan, with the paper version mailed afterward.
It is important to note that you must ensure that the cargo information provided to the agent is accurate and complete; otherwise, it may lead to errors in the customs declaration form, affecting subsequent procedures such as tax refunds. Simultaneously, pay attention to all contents on the customs declaration form, such as cargo description, quantity, and value, ensuring they all match the actual situation.
You can ask the agent to promptly send you the electronic version of the customs declaration form via email or other online methods after customs declaration is complete. This allows for quick information access, and receiving the physical copy later will not cause any issues.
In some regions, companies can log into the electronic port themselves to print customs declaration forms. You can ask your agent if, in your agent export situation, you can log in and print it yourself, which would be more convenient and faster.
It is important to agree on a specific timeline with the agent for the delivery of the customs declaration form to avoid delays in subsequent work, such as the tax refund application deadline, due to time issues.
After goods are exported, frequently urge the agent to obtain the customs declaration form as soon as possible. At the same time, confirm whether information such as the trade method on the customs declaration form is consistent with the agent export agreement.
Remind the agent to carefully verify the information after obtaining the customs declaration form. You should also reconfirm it upon receipt, providing a double safeguard to prevent errors.
If the agent declares customs through a customs broker, you can ask the agent to coordinate with the customs broker to provide them with the customs declaration form promptly, which can then be quickly passed on to you.
Find out if the local customs has any special regulations or convenient channels for obtaining customs declaration forms. Ask the agent to follow these procedures to speed up the acquisition process.
When communicating with the agent about obtaining the customs declaration form, clearly specify how many paper copies are needed to avoid affecting business operations later due to an insufficient number of copies.