I. Case Background: The "Return Dilemma" in Export on Behalf of Others

In international trade practice, we often encounter such a dilemma: after a customer ships goods overseas using a buying agent export method, if quality issues or damage occur requiring return shipment, they find that the buying agent export method cannot facilitate formal return procedures. This is exactly the real case we recently handled—a returned image measuring instrument from Malaysia.

The customer initially used the buyout channel toEquipment ExportTo Malaysia, the consignee discovered damage to the equipment upon opening the package and requested a return in the original packaging. However, due to the unique nature of export on a bought bill, normal return procedures cannot be followed. In this case, general trade import becomes the only feasible solution.

II. Solution: Key Points for General Trade Import

In response to this situation, we have designed a comprehensive import solution for our clients, which primarily consists of three core components:

1. Overseas transportation arrangements

Through our Malaysian cooperative agent, we successfully completed the cargo pickup from the customer's warehouse to Port Klang, as well as the container loading and...Maritime TransportationArrangement. Special attention should be paid to:

• Ensure the packaging is intact and meets the return requirements.
• Keep complete packing photos and inspection records.
• Choose a reliable shipping company to avoid secondary cargo damage.

2. Hong Kong Transit Operations

Considering the complexity and cost of direct imports from the mainland, we have chosen Hong Kong as the transshipment port:

• Departing from Port Klang on June 7th and arriving at the port on June 15th.
• On June 18th, arrange for the second barge to Huangpu Wuchong.
• Professional handling of document conversion and transportation connections for the Hong Kong section.

3. MainlandImport Clearance

This is the most critical step in the entire process, and we adopt the "dual consignee" customs clearance model:

• Prepare complete customs clearance documents (packing list, invoice, declaration elements, etc.) in advance.
• Declare before arrival to achieve "tax payment upon declaration."
• Complete tax payment on June 19th to ensure prompt clearance.

III. Practical Experience: Easily Overlooked Details

Through this case, we have summarized several easily overlooked yet crucial practical points:

Accuracy of commodity classification

The image measuring instrument is a precision instrument, and its HS code classification directly affects:

• Tariff rate (this case is ultimately classified under 9031.4990)
• Is it necessary to apply for an electromechanical certificate?
• Customs valuation standards

2. The Principle of Document Consistency

Since it is a returned shipment, it must be ensured that:

• Import Customs DeclarationThe product name and model are consistent with the original export.
• The description of the packaging condition matches the actual situation.
• Declare the value of goods reasonably to avoid valuation delays.

3. Tax Treatment Techniques

In response to the particularity of returned goods, we have taken the following measures:

• Declare at original value, and provide original export documents for verification.
• If eligible, tax reduction or exemption may be applied for, but in this case, complete documentation cannot be provided due to export under a third-party's name.
• Precautions for Issuing Special Value-Added Tax Invoices

IV. Industry Insights: Risk Prevention in Export on Behalf of Others

This case provides us with significant industry insights:

1. The limitations of export on credit

Many small and medium-sized enterprises opt for purchasing export services for convenience, yet overlook their inherent risks:

• Unable to process formal return shipment.
• ImpactExport Drawback
• Not conducive to the accumulation of corporate credit.

2. The Value of Professional Representation

In a complex trade environment, professional agencies can provide:

• Alternative Solution Design
• Experience in handling special cases
• Whole-process risk control

3. Recommendations for Preventive Measures

To avoid similar situations, we recommend that exporting enterprises:

• Conduct comprehensive testing before exporting precision instruments.
• Purchase appropriate transportation insurance
• Establish a formalimport and exportOperation process

V.ZhongShen International TradeService advantages

As a professional agent with 17 years of experience, we demonstrate distinct advantages when handling such special cases:

1. Global Network Support

The close cooperation of the Malaysian agent ensured smooth operations for the overseas segment.

2. Multimodal transport experience

The flexible arrangement of transiting through Hong Kong has significantly reduced customer costs.

3. Customs clearance professional competence

From submission to release, it only takes 1 working day, demonstrating professional efficiency.

This case once again proves that in international trade, professional import...Export RepresentationServices not only address unexpected issues but also help businesses save costs and improve efficiency. ZhongShen International Trade will continue to uphold the service philosophy of "professionalism, efficiency, and reliability," providing clients with comprehensive trade solutions.