Many goods that are bought and sold are obtained through imports and
exports. "Entrepreneur" magazine notes that more than 90 percent of import/export agencies are small businesses. The import/export business
is ideal for people who are organized, not afraid to make a sales pitch,
and enjoy dealing with people from different cultures. If you want to
start an import/export agency, you need to prepare a plan to ensure your
venture's success.
Instructions
Step 1
Determine
your target market. In an import/export agency, any manufacturer or
supplier is a potential customer, as long as it is interested in buying
or selling a product. Look at your business background and interests
when deciding what niche you want to work with. For example, if you have
work experience in the health-care industry, you might want your agency
to import and export health-related products.
Step 2
Decide
what type of import/export agency you want to run. There are several
options you can choose from. Export managers locate buyers for existing
manufacturing firms, while export-trading companies seek out companies
that want to sell their goods overseas. You can also opt to import and
export goods on your own, notes "Entrepreneur," and earn a salary or
receive a commission or retainer.
Step 3
Purchase the equipment needed for your office. An import/export agency can be
home based. You can start on a shoestring budget with a computer, fax
machine and printer. If you are not starting an agency as a distributor,
you will not need to purchase inventory when launching the business --
which can save you a lot in terms of start-up funds.
Step 4
Obtain a business license. You should contact the appropriate licensing agency
in your city or state to determine what type of license you will need.
In addition, you will need an import/export license, and the type of
license you obtain will depend on what kind of goods you are importing.
For example, if you import or export wildlife, you must apply for a license from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife service.
Tip
While
certification is not a requirement for import/export agents, it can be
helpful, especially if you do not have experience in the industry.
Organizations such as Export Academy offer online courses that help you
learn about international trade and earn the International Trade
Specialist credential.
Many goods that are bought and sold are obtained through imports and
exports. "Entrepreneur" magazine notes that more than 90 percent of import/export agencies are small businesses. The import/export business
is ideal for people who are organized, not afraid to make a sales pitch,
and enjoy dealing with people from different cultures. If you want to
start an import/export agency, you need to prepare a plan to ensure your
venture's success.
Step 2
Obtain a business license. You should contact the appropriate licensing agency
in your city or state to determine what type of license you will need.
In addition, you will need an import/export license, and the type of
license you obtain will depend on what kind of goods you are importing.
For example, if you import or export wildlife, you must apply for a license from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife service.
Thanks for great tips..!!! These tips really help us to expand our Import Export Business
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