Thinking of starting an import/export business? We provide Import/Export Trade Professional offers these tips for getting started:

1. Participate in the local Boards of Trades (or Chambers of Commerce if there is no local Board of Trade). In addition to networking, you have access to research libraries and other resources that will offer good trade information.

2. Find out about licensing requirements, if any. Many countries do not have licensing requirements for most products. However, if you are importing or exporting high-risk products (pharmaceuticals, liquor, chemicals, arms, certain food items and certain articles of apparel), you might need a license. “I strongly recommend that people start out with low risk items that can be easily traded and have fewer barriers like giftware and customer items. Certain industries, like dairy, are guarded by lobby groups in some countries. You will be faced with quotas and restrictions.”

3. Contact your country’s taxation department to ask about registration numbers or other procedures that you must follow. For example, if you are Canadian, you will require a Registration Number, issued by Canada Customs and Taxation Agency (CATA). When you inform CCTA of your plans to import or export, they issue an extension to your business number. This number is used on all related documents.

4. To import goods, communicate with that country’s Consulate situated in your own country. If you are uncertain what products the other nation wants, you can obtain catalogues and lists of manufacturers.

5. Prohibition is trade barriers set up against other countries. Many countries have embargoes against Cuba, for example. First, contact your own government to determine whether there are restrictions or embargoes against the country you are considering. Next, contact that country’s Consulate or Embassy to see if there are restrictions against goods from your country.

6. International export many countries have set up offices (Consulates or Embassies) in foreign countries to promote the exporting of their goods. The Consulates will supply you with industry directories in addition to more. Embassies be located in a nation’s capital and Consulates in different cities. In many cases, the Embassy web site will contain directories and producer lists, as well as an email link that you can use for sourcing

7. Use customs brokers. “Small businesses attempting their own paperwork can run into delays at borders. If you make a mistake, you can be fined. A tradition broker’s service is well worth the fee you pay.

8. Look to the Web for information about international trade. Many web sites offer an array of information that you can access for no charge,

9. Consult your bank for information about Letters of Credit, the most common form of payment when trading globally. With a Letter of Credit, you minimize your risk because the banks assure that the goods are delivered before the money is exchanged. As an importer, a Letter of Credit reduces the risk of having to pay in advance for goods, or of paying for goods that are inconsistent with the product description in the Letter. As an exporter, you have the buyer’s bank’s assurance that you will receive payment provided you ship the goods as specified within an agreed-upon time.

10. Participate in Trade Missions. Consult your Board of Trade or local Chamber of Commerce to discover what is available.

11. When exporting, understand that there is no one solution to shipping and customs handling that will work in every circumstance. Every deal is different. Each company and each set of products will require a different set of services, or a combination of military. Engaging the services of a freight forwarder is one opportunity. Freight forwarders arrange shipping and customs for goods going to other countries. “You have to shop for these services and do your research. Ask a lot of questions. It’s no different than buying a piece of furniture. You shop around first.

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