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Questions? We Have Answers.

Everything you need to know about working with a licensed China import/export agency —from tax rebates and customs clearance to pricing and paperwork.

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Getting Started

What is a China import/export agency and why do I need one?+
An import/export agency acts as a licensed legal entity in China on your behalf. Foreign companies without a Chinese business license cannot directly import or export goods in China. Zhongshen holds all required licenses and acts as your trade proxy —handling documentation, declarations, duties, and payments, then settling with you directly.
Why should I choose Zhongshen over other agencies?+
We bring 23 years of specialised trade experience, established relationships at all major Chinese ports, and a transparent fee structure with no hidden charges. Our bilingual team manages the entire process end to end, and our export VAT refunds are typically processed within one working day.
Do you work with small businesses and first-time importers?+
Yes. We work with clients of every size —from first-time importers shipping a single container to established enterprises moving hundreds of shipments a year. New clients receive a free consultation where we map out the full process, costs, and timeline before you commit to anything.
Which countries and regions do you serve?+
We support trade between China and virtually any country worldwide, including North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. Our team is experienced with the documentation and certification requirements of major destination markets and free-trade agreements such as RCEP.
How do I get started and how quickly can you begin?+
Simply contact us with your commodity, trade direction, and target ports. After a free assessment we'll send a clear proposal. Once terms are agreed and documents are in order, we can begin handling your shipment immediately —most new engagements are operational within a few business days.
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Export & Tax Rebate

How fast can I receive my export tax refund?+
Once your goods are exported with correct documentation, we submit your VAT refund application immediately. Our streamlined process means refunds are typically processed within one working day, transferred directly to your designated bank account.
What is the export VAT rebate and how much can I get back?+
The export VAT rebate refunds the value-added tax already paid on goods manufactured in China and then exported. The rebate rate depends on the product's HS code —most machinery and electronics currently sit at 13%, while some categories are lower. We confirm the exact applicable rate for your goods before shipping.
What documents are needed to claim the tax rebate?+
The core documents are the VAT special invoice from your supplier, the customs export declaration, the export contract, and proof of foreign-exchange receipt. We review every document for accuracy before submission to avoid delays or rejections.
Can I still get a rebate if I buy from multiple suppliers?+
Yes. We consolidate purchases from multiple qualified suppliers under a single export, provided each supplier issues a valid VAT special invoice. We manage the reconciliation so your full eligible rebate is claimed correctly.
Do you advance the rebate amount before the government pays out?+
For qualifying clients we offer rebate-advance arrangements that improve your cash flow —you receive funds quickly rather than waiting on the full administrative cycle. Eligibility and terms are confirmed case by case; ask us for details.
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Import Agency

Do you handle both imports into China and exports out of China?+
Yes. We handle the full spectrum: exporting Chinese goods to overseas buyers, importing foreign goods into China, re-export trade, and cross-border e-commerce. Our team is experienced in both directions and can advise on the most efficient structure for your trade flows.
What duties and taxes apply when importing into China?+
Imports are generally subject to customs duty (based on the HS code and country of origin), import VAT, and in some cases consumption tax. We calculate the total landed cost in advance so there are no surprises, and apply any preferential rates available under trade agreements.
Can you act as the importer of record in China?+
Yes. As a licensed agency we can serve as the importer of record, handling declarations, duty payment, and regulatory compliance on your behalf —essential for overseas companies that do not hold a Chinese import license.
Do you handle regulated or licensed import categories?+
We handle many regulated categories such as food, cosmetics, and medical devices that require special permits, inspection, or registration. Restricted goods are assessed individually —contact us for a free commodity assessment before you ship.
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Customs Clearance

How long does customs clearance take?+
For standard shipments with complete documentation, clearance typically takes 1— working days at major Chinese ports. With our 23 years of experience and established port relationships, we often achieve same-day or next-day processing. Complex or regulated goods may require 3— days.
Which ports do you cover?+
We provide clearance support at all major Chinese ports including Shanghai, Ningbo-Zhoushan, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Qingdao, and Tianjin, as well as key inland and air gateways. Our on-the-ground teams help resolve issues quickly wherever your cargo arrives.
What causes customs delays and how do you prevent them?+
The most common causes are incorrect HS classification, incomplete or inconsistent documents, undervaluation, and missing permits for regulated goods. We pre-check every declaration against current regulations so problems are caught before filing rather than at the port.
What happens if my shipment is inspected or held?+
If customs selects your shipment for inspection, our team manages the process directly —coordinating with officials, supplying any additional documentation, and keeping you informed at every step until the goods are released.
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Pricing & Payments

How do you charge for your services?+
We use a transparent fee structure agreed up front —typically a service fee based on the scope of work and shipment value. There are no hidden charges; your quotation lists every cost so you know the total before proceeding.
Is the initial consultation and quote really free?+
Yes. Your initial consultation, commodity assessment, and quotation are completely free and carry no obligation. We only earn when you choose to proceed with a shipment.
What payment methods and currencies do you accept?+
We accept international bank transfers (T/T) and can work in major currencies including USD, EUR, and RMB. For export clients, we handle foreign-exchange receipt and settlement as part of the service.
Do you handle foreign-exchange settlement for me?+
Yes. As a licensed agency we manage compliant foreign-exchange receipt and settlement on your behalf, ensuring overseas payments are received and reconciled correctly against your export declarations.
Are there any hidden fees I should know about?+
No. Transparency is core to how we work. Third-party costs such as shipping, port charges, duties, and inspection fees are passed through at cost and itemised separately from our service fee, so you always see exactly where your money goes.
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Documents & Compliance

What documents do I need to provide to get started?+
Typically we need your commercial invoice, packing list, sales contract, and product details (including HS code if known). For tax rebates we also need supplier VAT special invoices. We'll give you a tailored checklist for your specific shipment so nothing is missed.
What types of goods can you handle?+
We handle most commercial commodities including machinery, electronics, automotive parts, chemicals (with licensing), medical devices, food and beverages, cosmetics, textiles, and consumer goods. Contact us for a free commodity assessment on restricted categories.
Can you help with certificates of origin and inspection certificates?+
Yes. We arrange certificates of origin (including FTA preferential certificates such as RCEP), inspection and quarantine certificates, and other documents required by your destination market, helping you qualify for lower duties where available.
Is my business information kept confidential?+
Absolutely. We treat all client and shipment information as strictly confidential and handle your supplier relationships and commercial data with full discretion. Your information is never shared with third parties outside what is legally required for clearance.

Still have questions?

Our trade specialists respond within 30 minutes during business hours. Get a free, no-obligation answer to your specific situation.

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