1. Have precise goals
Be aware of which products you want to import and why
What role do imports play in your preliminary business plan? Make sure you have specific criteria before looking for a vendor and choose products compatible with your overall strategy.
2. Familiarize yourself with import regulations
Textile products require a license; did you know that?
Research the regulations and restrictions that apply to your products, and you’ll find out if you need a license and avoid difficulties in customs.
Agricultural, textile, iron, and steel products are subject to stricter regulations.
3. Work with a reliable and reputable provider
Take your time choosing a provider.
Only agree if you’re sure that the products are high quality and you trust your supplier.
Be alert, as it is not always easy to spot unreliable individuals or companies. Sudden price increases, unusual payment methods, and long delays in email responses are some possible signs of bad providers.
4. Develop a good relationship
Trust goes two-way in any international business.
If you want to import long-term from China with a specific supplier, it is good to establish a strong relationship.
If possible, meet them to demonstrate your commitment. In this way, your activities will be much more fluid, and you will increase the probability that you will negotiate better deals
5. Have product codes ready
Product codes are used to classify merchandise.
A product code is a 10-digit number that includes any import from a non-EU country. You need it to adequately cover the relevant documentation and declarations and obtain essential information such as tariff rates.
6. Don’t forget to pay taxes or VAT
Do not allow the merchandise to be retained in customs for not having paid specific fees.
If you do not pay the required duty or VAT on your imports, they will not clear customs.
The amount you pay will depend on the merchandise and category before shipment.
Do you want to place a small order? Then, if the total value of the shipment does not exceed 22 EUR, you should not have to pay taxes.
7. Include even the smallest detail in the contract
Protect your imports with a comprehensive contract
It is essential to have a clear and detailed contract for any import.
Leave nothing up in the air – cover everything from payment and delivery terms to currencies and timing. You must also establish which Incoterms (international commercial terms) you will accept.
These impose rules on importers, exporters, and any other agencies involved in contracts for the sale of goods throughout the world, and clarify the costs and responsibilities of each party, to avoid misunderstandings.
8. Test products to ensure their quality
Best Practice for Businesses Placing Larger Orders
Minimize the risks associated with importing goods by requesting product samples. Thus, you can ask that they be tested to verify that they meet your standards and the legal requirements of your country.
This is especially important for businesses that buy in bulk, increasing their confidence when placing a large order.
9. Plan transportation in advance
Only give your clients deadlines that you know you will be able to respect
Setting impossible deadlines for the arrival of your imports can cause delays in your deliveries and affect the relationship with your customers.
Instead, please be aware of transit times and allow additional time in customs before importation. In this way, you will avoid disappointing your customers.
10. Seek assistance from a reliable courier company
For this, all I can say is, do Google research on the best companies near you that can help you bring your product.
If you want to take it one step further and want to manufacture your product in China; then it’s vital for you to understand the manufacturing costs of a product; the Non-recurring costs
