How to Buy overseas

are you wanting to start buying overseas, but not sure how. then you should read on....

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. when you begin to buy products over seas, you need to make sure that you have at least a basic understanding of the culture of the country, and a idea of the language (or get someone who can). You can upset your supplier and not even be aware of it if you violate a cultural norm. so here are some good ideas of what to do.
   
   
   Do research to find the best country in which to buy your product from.
   Find trusted suppliers, Get references, Communicate in a culturally-appropriate manner.
   Agree on payment terms in advance. Don't pay in full until product is delivered.
   Get sample products first, (if the shipping is reasonable) and then after you sample it, check to make sure these items meet the quality and specifications of the initial samples before paying. Have ongoing quality control in place – this could require having a staff member in-country. Or if you’re a small business, then you’re taking a risk with out knowing all the facts and (real) updates.
   Find trusted shippers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers to make sure your products arrive safe and sound. And for the small business owners, you’ll have to find all the shipping info out your self.
   
   The best contacts and resources to help you

2. Find a supplier
   Alibaba.com is the most popular china site. You can talk to the company yourself without having to go through automated machines.
   Globalsources.com showcases international products, and in addition provides information on trade shows and sourcing reports specific to China. This way you wont get confused.
   There are others to check out.
   
   Check references
   
   Research the reputation and reliability of your potential foreign partner.
   Learn about the international payment, and the terms and benefits and risks to the buyer at the International Trade Data System. This could save you thousands of dollars and time.

3. Find and negotiate shipping services
   
   Depending on where you live and what you will be exporting, the company in with which you will be dealing with can vary.
   Like ups, fedex, simpleship, dhl, uship and others, they all have different rates and prices. So you should research your shipping too.
   
   Be prepared for customs
   
   Find out about U.S. import duties and taxes. Make things easier on yourself by getting help from an experienced broker in that area.
   You can check out U.S import duty information from the Department of Commerce. This one is a very good and reliable source.

Tips & Warnings

• dont get in over your head, when buying overseas.

[mn442010]

on 12/4/2009 Great resources! 5* & rec