Why Choose an Import Agent? What's the Trick?
Resolved
I'm planning to start an import business recently, but many people suggest I find an import agent. I don't quite understand why? Can't I handle it myself directly? I feel like I can save some agency fees. So I want to ask everyone, why should I find an import agent?
Trade Expert Insights Answers
There are several main reasons for choosing an import agent.
Firstly, the import process is complex and tedious, involving many steps such as customs declaration, quarantine inspection, and tax payment. Any mistake in any step can lead to cargo detention, fines, and other problems. Import agent companies have professional teams who are familiar with the process and can efficiently and accurately complete all procedures, ensuring smooth customs clearance of goods.
Secondly, import agents have rich resources in the industry, such as being able to quickly find suitable freight forwarders to arrange transportation and ensure timely arrival of goods. Moreover, they can keep abreast of policy changes and help you avoid risks. For example, import policies for some products are frequently adjusted, and agent companies can inform you in advance and provide solutions.
Furthermore, from a cost perspective, although there are agency fees, agent companies can avoid additional costs incurred by unfamiliarity with the process, such as container demurrage and storage fees, by leveraging their scale advantage and professional operations. Overall, it is actually more cost-effective.
Import agents are familiar with the import requirements for various goods. Different goods may have special regulations, and they can handle them perfectly, while it's easy for us to make mistakes if we do it ourselves.
Finding an import agent can save us a lot of time and energy. We don't need to research those complicated procedures and regulations ourselves, and can focus on sales and other businesses.
Import agents are experienced in handling unexpected situations. For example, if customs inspection occurs, they know how to respond and resolve the problem as quickly as possible, allowing the goods to be released promptly.