Start an Import / Export Business
The business of importing and exporting goods is timeless. For centuries individuals have traveled to distant lands to
return with all the wonders from far away. Although once this endeavor was achieved on camels, horses, and other animals
it has advanced to be a multi-trillion dollar industry. The import-export business, however, is not limited to huge
corporate conglomerates; there is also room for small dealers.
Merchandise and Goods
There is a variety of merchandise and goods being importing and exported for various reasons. Sometimes goods are
imported because it is less expensive to buy them from another country than to produce them. On the other hand, some
items can not be made or grown in a particular region; therefore, importation becomes necessary. Also, some goods
are considered to be of higher quality if they are imported, such as champagne, beer, and furniture.
Items are typically exported as a means to produce an income and to meet the needs of other areas.
Customers
The clients you will have are in a number of arenas. Retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors are just a
few of the sources you may utilize. You should not limit yourself or your possibilities by having a narrow view of your
clientele. The sky is the limit. There are numerous clients available to you as well as products and goods to utilize
in your import-export business.
Startup costs
One of the drawbacks to starting your own business is the startup funds that may be required. In the import-export
business, you may be talking about anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000, depending on whether you want to keep an inventory,
want commercial office space, or plan to hire employees.
One advantage of the import-export business is the small amount of equipment necessary to run an effective office. A
computer with internet access, telephone, fax machine, and printer will be enough to get your business up and running.
Another major advantage to this type of business is the ability to run an effective operation from a home office. While
also providing considerably less expense, a home office also offers several tax deductions and other benefits. The major
draw of being self-employed is typically the freedom in scheduling and time as compared to a regular job. A home-based
office provides this on an even larger scale.
However, there are disadvantages to a home office. One is lack of motivation. Some people have a hard time getting to
work when they are at home. There will always be distractions and other things that need attention. It may also be
difficult to escape your family and work when you are in the same house.
Income
As with many self-employment positions, your income as an importer-exporter will depend on you. Depending on how much you
want to work, how many projects you want to pursue, and how diligently you perform, your income can vary greatly.
Gross revenue from this industry can range anywhere from $30,000 to $200,000 a year. There are various income structures,
from commission to flat retainer fees, depending on the type of products you are dealing with.
Marketing
In the world of an import-export business there are several avenues of marketing you can utilize. Direct mailing, cold
calling, attending trade shows, and traveling abroad are all ways you can sell yourself and the services you provide.
Because of the incredible size of the market, you may wish to concentrate your efforts to a particular segment to avoid
running crazy and not making any progress. Once you get your business going you will find that it tends to take on a life
of its own. While this may be less trouble and work for you, you should be prepared to meet this growth.
|
