--- title: "What are the core links and precautions in the full process of stone export agency?" description: "Stone export agency involves risks in multiple links，such as customs valuation disputes，port detention，tax non-compliance，etc. Zhongshen helps enterprises avoid inspection risks，reduce container detention fees，realize tax refund compliance，ensure smooth customs clearance of goods and improve profit margins through full-link document review，logistics route optimization and tax planning.。" url: "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html" language: "en" type: "Q&A" category: "Export Agency Q&A" datePublished: "2026-09-30" dateModified: "2026-09-30" brand: "Zhongshen Trading China" answerCount: 10 --- # What are the core links and precautions in the full process of stone export agency? ## Question I am the owner of a stone processing factory. I recently received an export order for granite blocks from Southeast Asia, but I have never engaged in foreign trade agency business before. Each piece of goods in this batch weighs up to 5 tons with large volume, so I am worried that high fees will be incurred due to container rolling or port detention during logistics. In addition, I have no knowledge of the processes of customs valuation and export tax refund at all, and I am afraid that the goods will be detained due to incomplete documents, or the delay of tax refund will affect capital turnover. I would like to know how to cooperate with the agency company throughout the process if I hire one? Are there any hidden costs to pay attention to? I hope to get detailed guidance to avoid pitfalls. ## Answers ### Answer 1 — Best Answer The full-link process of stone export agency starts with document review. First of all，it is necessary to confirm whether the goods belong to restricted export categories. For example，some stone materials require export licenses (such as marble blocks need to be approved by the Ministry of Natural Resources). The agency company will assist enterprises in preparing basic documents such as commercial invoices，packing lists，customs declaration forms，certificates of origin，and check whether the **HS Code** of the goods is accurate -- this is the key to avoiding customs valuation disputes. For the connection of core nodes，it is necessary to ensure that the information on documents is consistent with that of the goods in the customs declaration link，especially data such as weight，volume and value. In the logistics link，appropriate transportation methods should be selected according to the characteristics of the goods: granite blocks are large in volume，so **FCL shipping** is preferred，and it is necessary to confirm whether the terminal is equipped with large crane equipment. In addition，shipping schedules should be locked in advance to avoid container rolling caused by full cabin capacity，if transshipment is selected，the **free storage period** of the transshipment port should be clarified to prevent container detention fees. Abnormal contingency plans are indispensable. In case of customs inspection，supporting documents such as certificate of origin，purchase and sales contract，cost accounting sheet should be provided immediately to deal with valuation disputes. If port detention occurs during logistics，the agency company will coordinate with the shipping company to extend the free storage period or replace the transshipment port. In the final compliance implementation link，it is necessary to ensure that the foreign exchange received is consistent with the customs declaration amount，and the **document filing** is complete，so as to smoothly handle the **export tax refund**. **status:** accepted **Author:** Kevin Lin **Date:** 2026-09-30 ### Answer 2 In stone export customs declaration, valuation disputes are common problems. The customs will verify the dutiable value based on the transaction price of similar goods, international market conditions and other factors. If the declared price of the enterprise is lower than the customs valuation standard, it is necessary to provide supporting documents such as purchase and sales contracts, cost details, and bank slips to explain the rationality of the price. In addition, wrong HS Code classification will lead to inconsistent tax refund rates or incorrect supervision conditions. It is necessary to classify accurately according to the type of stone (such as granite, marble): granite is classified under 2516, and marble under 2515, so as to avoid document deletion and re-declaration caused by classification errors. **status:** suggested **Author:** Andy Guo **Date:** 2026-09-30 ### Answer 3 For stone export logistics, FCL shipping should be given priority, and direct routes should be selected to reduce transshipment risks. If there is no direct voyage to the port of destination and a transshipment port needs to be selected, confirm the free storage period of the transshipment port (usually 7-14 days) and the container detention fee standard. For cargo title control, order bills of lading should be adopted, and complete procedures should be ensured during endorsement transfer to avoid loss of cargo title. In addition, confirm the crane capacity of the terminal with the freight forwarder in advance. Each piece of granite block is heavy, so it is necessary to ensure that the terminal has sufficient load-bearing equipment. **status:** suggested **Author:** Lucas Liu **Date:** 2026-09-30 ### Answer 4 Tax planning for stone export should focus on export tax refund and VAT deferral. Enterprises should ensure that the input invoices are consistent with the information on the customs declaration form, so as to smoothly handle the export tax refund (the tax refund rate is usually 13%). If the VAT deferral policy is adopted, the payment of import value-added tax can be delayed to ease capital pressure. In addition, unreasonable pricing of related party transactions should be avoided to prevent triggering BEPS review and ensure tax compliance. **status:** suggested **Author:** Cindy Chen **Date:** 2026-09-30 ### Answer 5 Foreign exchange receipt and payment for stone export should go through compliant channels, such as SWIFT or CIPS system. Enterprises should ensure that the amount of foreign exchange received is consistent with the customs declaration amount, so as to avoid excessive difference triggering foreign exchange supervision. In offshore account management, account flow should be checked regularly to ensure that the source of funds is legal. When settling foreign exchange, you can choose the period with favorable exchange rate to optimize the foreign exchange purchase cost, and keep the foreign exchange settlement vouchers for tax verification. **status:** suggested **Author:** Daniel Xu **Date:** 2026-09-30 ### Answer 6 Stone export contracts should clearly define force majeure clauses. If cargo delay is caused by natural disasters, liability can be exempted according to the clauses. When settling by letter of credit, pay attention to soft clauses, such as "the bill of lading shall show the designated shipping company", to avoid payment refusal due to failure to meet the clauses. In addition, the transfer of cargo title shall be completed through bill of lading endorsement to ensure the legality and validity of the transfer procedures and prevent disputes. **status:** suggested **Author:** Eric Zhou **Date:** 2026-09-30 ### Answer 7 When stone exports encounter customs inspection, it is necessary to prepare materials such as certificate of origin, purchase and sales contract, packing list, weight inspection report, etc. During unpacking inspection, cooperate with customs officers to confirm whether the quantity and specification of the goods are consistent with the documents. If the goods have defects, provide a quality inspection report to explain the situation. In addition, pay attention to the authenticity of the seal. If the seal is damaged, contact the freight forwarder immediately to avoid being identified as smuggling suspicion. **status:** suggested **Author:** Evelyn Li **Date:** 2026-09-30 ### Answer 8 Stone export packaging should meet international transportation standards. Granite blocks should be reinforced with wooden pallets to prevent displacement during transportation. If the goods are dangerous goods (such as radioactive stone), UN dangerous goods packaging certification should be handled, and MSDS report should be prepared. The buffer packaging materials should be pressure-resistant materials, such as foam plastic, to reduce the risk of cargo collision damage. The shipping mark should be clearly marked on the package, including the port of destination, box number, weight and other information. **status:** suggested **Author:** Michael Zhang **Date:** 2026-09-30 ### Answer 9 For stone export tax refund, it is necessary to ensure the consistency of four streams (contract stream, goods stream, capital stream, invoice stream). Enterprises should apply for tax refund within 90 days after customs declaration, and will not be able to enjoy tax refund if overdue. In case of tax correspondence investigation, provide materials such as purchase and sales contracts, input invoices, foreign exchange receipt vouchers to explain the authenticity of the business. Document filing should be kept for at least 5 years, including customs declaration forms, bills of lading, invoices, etc., for tax verification. **status:** suggested **Author:** Victor Sun **Date:** 2026-09-30 ### Answer 10 Stone export supply chain planning should link inventory and logistics. Enterprises can adopt the JIT model to reduce inventory backlog, and sign long-term cooperation agreements with freight forwarders to obtain freight discounts. The choice of CIF and FOB terms should be based on the demand of cargo title control: under FOB terms, the buyer appoints the freight forwarder, and the cargo title is transferred earlier; under CIF terms, the seller controls the logistics with lower risks. In addition, a supply chain risk early warning mechanism should be established, such as monitoring shipping schedule delays, to adjust the delivery plan in time. **status:** suggested **Author:** Grace Wang **Date:** 2026-09-30 ## Related Categories - [Import Agency Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-import-agency/) - [Export Tax Rebate Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-export-tax-rebate/) - [Customs Declaration Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-customs-declaration/) - [Freight Forwarding Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-freight-forwarding/) - [Forex Settlement Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-forex-settlement/) - [Entrepôt Trade Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-entrepot-trade/) - [General Trade Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-general-trade/) ## Related Resources - [Trade Services](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/services/) - [Trade Cases](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/cases/) - [Trade Wiki](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/wiki/) - [Trade Class](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/guide/) - [Global Trade Services](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/country/) ## Structured Data ```json [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage":"en", "isPartOf": { "@id":"https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/#website" }, "publisher":{ "@id":"https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/#organization" }, "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the core links and precautions in the full process of stone export agency?", "text": "I am the owner of a stone processing factory. I recently received an export order for granite blocks from Southeast Asia, but I have never engaged in foreign trade agency business before. Each piece of goods in this batch weighs up to 5 tons with large volume, so I am worried that high fees will be incurred due to container rolling or port detention during logistics. In addition, I have no knowledge of the processes of customs valuation and export tax refund at all, and I am afraid that the goods will be detained due to incomplete documents, or the delay of tax refund will affect capital turnover. I would like to know how to cooperate with the agency company throughout the process if I hire one? Are there any hidden costs to pay attention to? I hope to get detailed guidance to avoid pitfalls.", "answerCount": 10, "upvoteCount": 2, "datePublished": "2026-09-30T11:59:36Z", "dateModified": "2026-09-30T12:04:48Z", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Zhongshen Trading China", "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html" } ,"acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The full-link process of stone export agency starts with document review. First of all，it is necessary to confirm whether the goods belong to restricted export categories. For example，some stone materials require export licenses (such as marble blocks need to be approved by the Ministry of Natural Resources). The agency company will assist enterprises in preparing basic documents such as commercial invoices，packing lists，customs declaration forms，certificates of origin，and check whether the HS Code of the goods is accurate -- this is the key to avoiding customs valuation disputes. For the connection of core nodes，it is necessary to ensure that the information on documents is consistent with that of the goods in the customs declaration link，especially data such as weight，volume and value. In the logistics link，appropriate transportation methods should be selected according to the characteristics of the goods: granite blocks are large in volume，so FCL shipping is preferred，and it is necessary to confirm whether the terminal is equipped with large crane equipment. In addition，shipping schedules should be locked in advance to avoid container rolling caused by full cabin capacity，if transshipment is selected，the free storage period of the transshipment port should be clarified to prevent container detention fees. Abnormal contingency plans are indispensable. In case of customs inspection，supporting documents such as certificate of origin，purchase and sales contract，cost accounting sheet should be provided immediately to deal with valuation disputes. If port detention occurs during logistics，the agency company will coordinate with the shipping company to extend the free storage period or replace the transshipment port. In the final compliance implementation link，it is necessary to ensure that the foreign exchange received is consistent with the customs declaration amount，and the document filing is complete，so as to smoothly handle the export tax refund .", "upvoteCount": 2, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#acceptedAnswer", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T13:01:24Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Kevin Lin","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/kevin-lin/"} } ,"suggestedAnswer": [ { "@type": "Answer", "text": "In stone export customs declaration, valuation disputes are common problems. The customs will verify the dutiable value based on the transaction price of similar goods, international market conditions and other factors. If the declared price of the enterprise is lower than the customs valuation standard, it is necessary to provide supporting documents such as purchase and sales contracts, cost details, and bank slips to explain the rationality of the price. In addition, wrong HS Code classification will lead to inconsistent tax refund rates or incorrect supervision conditions. It is necessary to classify accurately according to the type of stone (such as granite, marble): granite is classified under 2516, and marble under 2515, so as to avoid document deletion and re-declaration caused by classification errors.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#suggestedAnswer-2", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T12:58:02Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Andy Guo","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/andy-guo/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For stone export logistics, FCL shipping should be given priority, and direct routes should be selected to reduce transshipment risks. If there is no direct voyage to the port of destination and a transshipment port needs to be selected, confirm the free storage period of the transshipment port (usually 7-14 days) and the container detention fee standard. For cargo title control, order bills of lading should be adopted, and complete procedures should be ensured during endorsement transfer to avoid loss of cargo title. In addition, confirm the crane capacity of the terminal with the freight forwarder in advance. Each piece of granite block is heavy, so it is necessary to ensure that the terminal has sufficient load-bearing equipment.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#suggestedAnswer-3", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T12:46:10Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Lucas Liu","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/lucas-liu/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Tax planning for stone export should focus on export tax refund and VAT deferral. Enterprises should ensure that the input invoices are consistent with the information on the customs declaration form, so as to smoothly handle the export tax refund (the tax refund rate is usually 13%). If the VAT deferral policy is adopted, the payment of import value-added tax can be delayed to ease capital pressure. In addition, unreasonable pricing of related party transactions should be avoided to prevent triggering BEPS review and ensure tax compliance.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#suggestedAnswer-4", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T12:36:50Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Cindy Chen","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/cindy-chen/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Foreign exchange receipt and payment for stone export should go through compliant channels, such as SWIFT or CIPS system. Enterprises should ensure that the amount of foreign exchange received is consistent with the customs declaration amount, so as to avoid excessive difference triggering foreign exchange supervision. In offshore account management, account flow should be checked regularly to ensure that the source of funds is legal. When settling foreign exchange, you can choose the period with favorable exchange rate to optimize the foreign exchange purchase cost, and keep the foreign exchange settlement vouchers for tax verification.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#suggestedAnswer-5", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T12:27:31Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Daniel Xu","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/daniel-xu/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Stone export contracts should clearly define force majeure clauses. If cargo delay is caused by natural disasters, liability can be exempted according to the clauses. When settling by letter of credit, pay attention to soft clauses, such as "the bill of lading shall show the designated shipping company", to avoid payment refusal due to failure to meet the clauses. In addition, the transfer of cargo title shall be completed through bill of lading endorsement to ensure the legality and validity of the transfer procedures and prevent disputes.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#suggestedAnswer-6", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T12:24:24Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Eric Zhou","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/eric-zhou/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "When stone exports encounter customs inspection, it is necessary to prepare materials such as certificate of origin, purchase and sales contract, packing list, weight inspection report, etc. During unpacking inspection, cooperate with customs officers to confirm whether the quantity and specification of the goods are consistent with the documents. If the goods have defects, provide a quality inspection report to explain the situation. In addition, pay attention to the authenticity of the seal. If the seal is damaged, contact the freight forwarder immediately to avoid being identified as smuggling suspicion.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#suggestedAnswer-7", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T12:13:50Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Evelyn Li","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/evelyn-li/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Stone export packaging should meet international transportation standards. Granite blocks should be reinforced with wooden pallets to prevent displacement during transportation. If the goods are dangerous goods (such as radioactive stone), UN dangerous goods packaging certification should be handled, and MSDS report should be prepared. The buffer packaging materials should be pressure-resistant materials, such as foam plastic, to reduce the risk of cargo collision damage. The shipping mark should be clearly marked on the package, including the port of destination, box number, weight and other information.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#suggestedAnswer-8", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T12:09:22Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Michael Zhang","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/michael-zhang/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For stone export tax refund, it is necessary to ensure the consistency of four streams (contract stream, goods stream, capital stream, invoice stream). Enterprises should apply for tax refund within 90 days after customs declaration, and will not be able to enjoy tax refund if overdue. In case of tax correspondence investigation, provide materials such as purchase and sales contracts, input invoices, foreign exchange receipt vouchers to explain the authenticity of the business. Document filing should be kept for at least 5 years, including customs declaration forms, bills of lading, invoices, etc., for tax verification.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#suggestedAnswer-9", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T12:06:45Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Victor Sun","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/victor-sun/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Stone export supply chain planning should link inventory and logistics. Enterprises can adopt the JIT model to reduce inventory backlog, and sign long-term cooperation agreements with freight forwarders to obtain freight discounts. The choice of CIF and FOB terms should be based on the demand of cargo title control: under FOB terms, the buyer appoints the freight forwarder, and the cargo title is transferred earlier; under CIF terms, the seller controls the logistics with lower risks. In addition, a supply chain risk early warning mechanism should be established, such as monitoring shipping schedule delays, to adjust the delivery plan in time.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/stone-export-agent-full-process-core-links-and-precautions.html#suggestedAnswer-10", "datePublished": "2026-09-30T12:04:48Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Grace Wang","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/grace-wang/"} } ] } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ {"@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/"},{"@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Q&A", "item": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/"},{"@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Export Agency Q&A", "item": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-export-agency/"} ,{"@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "What are the core links and precautions in the full process of stone export agency?"} ] } ] ```