How long does it generally take to get started in import and export agency work?
Resolved
I want to work as an import and export agent, but I'm not sure how long it will take to truly get started in the business. I have no prior experience, and I'm wondering how long it generally takes from learning to being able to independently conduct import and export agency business. What key knowledge and skills need to be learned in this process, and are there any more efficient methods to shorten the time it takes to get started? I hope experienced individuals can give me some advice.
Trade Expert Insights Answers
Generally speaking, if you have no prior experience in import and export agency work, it will take about 3 to 6 months to get started.
In the first month, you need to familiarize yourself with international trade terms, such as FOB, CIF, etc., which determine key issues like the transfer of risk and division of costs for goods. At the same time, you need to understand the customs declaration process, including preparing customs declaration documents and declaring to customs.
In the second month, delve deeper into the classification rules for import and export commodities. Different commodities correspond to different customs codes, which affect tax rates and regulatory conditions. You also need to master the application for licenses and certifications, as some commodities require specific documents for import and export.
In the third month, start practicing actual operations and learn to prepare documents and handle foreign exchange settlement with experienced colleagues, involving documents like commercial invoices and bills of lading.
For the subsequent 3 months, participate in more actual projects and accumulate experience in handling various unforeseen situations. Efficient methods include attending professional training courses, utilizing online learning platforms, and consulting with industry seniors.
If you have strong learning abilities and dedicate a significant amount of time each day, after familiarizing yourself with basic theories for more than two months, and then working on projects with experienced employees, you can probably get started in about 4 months.
It took me about 5 months to learn. I first thoroughly studied the international trade process and policies and regulations, and then it was faster to proceed with practical operations.
If you have prior foreign trade experience and are familiar with logistics and documentation, you might be able to start handling simple business in about 3 months.
It depends on personal comprehension. If you grasp things quickly, learning and practicing concurrently, 3 to 4 months should be sufficient. If you are slower, half a year is also normal.
First, understand various trade contract terms, then learn practical operations. It will take about half a year to independently conduct business.
By attending practical training and systematic learning, you can get started relatively quickly in import and export agency work in 4 to 5 months.
If you learn in your spare time, it might take 6 to 8 months. If you dedicate yourself to it, you can get started much faster.
Master the knowledge of commodity inspection and quarantine, and then learn through actual cases. You can get started in about 5 months.