How to Import From Foreign Countries

Shipping costs will vary, depending on where your purchased goods are being imported from.

In today's business world, goods and services travel across the globe. Managing your company efficiently depends on finding the best product at the cheapest prices to best serve your customer. Often, that means searching overseas. Industrial hubs, such as China and India, are key exporters in the global market. Being a savvy business manager means understanding how international trade works, as well being able to seize opportunity when it presents itself. Importing from foreign countries means putting yourself in a position to compete.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access
• Credit card

Instructions

1. Use your computer to research the goods that your customers wish to purchase. Be careful when you search the Internet to access websites for the various products. You may wish to consult other importers in the same business and see if they have a list of reliable foreign contacts.

   Once you have finalized a list of potential suppliers, email the suppliers for a price list and samples of the goods you are looking to purchase. Decide which goods you want to buy, as well as their quantity. Contact the supplier and place your order via email, using a secure site, and your business credit card.

2. Find a freight forwarder to ship your goods between ports. A link to freight forwarding contacts is listed in the Resource section. Always use a trusted freight forwarding firm when you ship your goods --- namely, to avoid insurmountable, complicated international problems.

3. Reach out to a professional and efficient customs broker to ensure that your goods are able to clear government customs when they enter the country. A link to brokerage contacts is provided in the Resource section. Finding a proficient customs broker is important to you and your business --- you need to be assured that your products will clear customs smoothly and arrive at their final destination in a timely fashion.

4. Find a trucker to deliver your goods once they are imported. Most truck services will deliver to your place of business, and they will ship the products to your home address for an additional cost.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask each service provider to give an estimated length of time you should expect to wait before you receive your product. This will help you better interact with your customers.

• Only buy from trusted suppliers when you purchase products from overseas to avoid counterfeit goods.

References

• Rise and Grind: How to Import from other Countries

Resources

• Forwarders: Directory of Freight-Forwarding Services
• US Customs and Border Protection: Locate a Port Of Entry - Air, Land, or Sea