1. What items are included in the basic customs declaration agency fees?

In 2025, mainstream customs brokerage fees typically consist of three major components:

• Basic Customs Clearance Service Fee
  • Single fixed charge per shipment: 300-800 RMB/shipment (general cargo)
  • Value-based percentage fee: 0.08%-0.15% (for high-value goods)
• Additional service fees
  • Document Pre-review Fee: 100-300 RMB per time
  • Expedited processing fee: 50%-200% of the base fee
• Collection of government fees
  • Customs Inspection Fee: 500-2000 RMB per time
  • Late declaration fee: 0.5‰ of the cargo value per day (after the levy threshold is reached).

2. Why is there such a significant difference in quotes from different agencies?

According to the 2025 Customs AEO Certified Enterprise Survey data, the price differences are primarily influenced by the following factors:

• Differences in types of goods: The average charge for hazardous materials is 40% higher than that for general cargo.
• Differences in trade methods: Processing trade incurs 20-30% higher operational costs compared to general trade.
• Port operation costs: The Shanghai Port is approximately 15% cheaper than inland ports.
• Enterprise qualification levels：AEO Advanced Certified Enterprises can enjoy a 10% reduction in inspection probability.

III. What new changes will there be in customs declaration fees by 2025?

In accordance with the latest directives from the 2025 General Administration of Customs Work Conference, special attention must be paid to:

• Widespread adoption of intelligent customs declaration systems: The electronic filing fee has been reduced by 20%, but a one-time installation fee of 2,000–5,000 yuan is required for system integration.
• Expansion of the green channel: Eligible enterprises will receive a 50% reduction in inspection fees.
• Impact of exchange rate fluctuations: A 3-5% exchange rate margin is required for USD settlement transactions.
• Implementation of the new regulatory model: The "two-step declaration" model can save 30% of port demurrage fees.

IV. How to Avoid Hidden Fee Traps?

It is recommended to adopt the "3 Checks and 3 Questions" method:

• Check the billing details: Please provide a quotation list with an official company seal.
• Check historical cases: Request the complete billing records for the same type of goods.
• Check enterprise credit: Verify qualifications through the Customs Enterprise Credit Management System.
• Ask about the cost ceiling: Clarify the maximum possible additional costs incurred
• Question: Division of Responsibilities: Defining the party responsible for losses caused by declaration errors
• Ask about preferential policies: Understand the applicable tax relief policies for the current month.

V. Self-filing vs. Agency Filing: Which Is More Cost-Effective?

Through a comparative cost calculation model (taking 100 export shipments per year as an example):

• Self-managed costs
  • System maintenance fee: 20,000-30,000 yuan/year
  • Personnel costs: 80,000-120,000 yuan/year
  • Training cost: 10,000-20,000 yuan/year
• Agency costs
  • Annual service fee: 40,000-60,000 yuan
  • Risk deposit: 10,000-30,000 yuan

It is recommended that small and medium-sized exporters with fewer than 200 shipments prioritize using agency services, while large enterprises may establish their own customs clearance teams.

6. How to Negotiate More Favorable Customs Brokerage Rates?

Master four negotiation skills:

• Volume-Price Linkage Strategy: Commit to annual business volume in exchange for tiered discounts
• Payment Term Replacement Plan: Shorten the payment period and request a 5-10% discount.
• Customized service packages：Integrate customs clearance, logistics, and other services to obtain bundled pricing
• Industry Alliance Bargaining：Collaborate with 3-5 industry peers to negotiate group rates.