Do you plan to export or import? Every day more companies want to develop their activity in other countries. Although it requires strategic planning, the development of an international marketing plan that helps achieve the proposed objectives and patience, international markets are an extraordinary business opportunity.
Fundamental tips for exports and imports
1. Register your brand
When you have a product to market it is important that you protect it. Different systems such as the PCT, better known as an international application valid for a total of 128 countries, or even applying for a European patent, will allow you to protect your product and save you a lot of future problems.
2. Documentation required
If you want to start operations internationally and trade with other countries, it is vital that you know perfectly the documents you will need, such as the types of invoices, customs documentation, proof of postage according to the route used by air, sea or highway. , health certificates and other procedures.
3. Select suppliers and partners
An essential advice to start with your exports or imports is the selection of suppliers and partners. We recommend that you investigate your potential candidates well before signing anything and use the time necessary for their selection.
4. Propose correctly the transport, logistics and how it will be done
Define precisely the issues related to transportation by land, sea or air and the logistics of your company is essential. Also, keep in mind that you will have to invest resources and they can be high. Raise the costs of your shipments as accurately as possible, choose the appropriate alternative for your products and the delivery conditions for your customers.
5. Make the Internet an ally
We invite you to make use of the facilities offered by the Internet for international trade, the selection of logistics operators and the needs of your company. The network will allow you to reduce your costs and access emerging markets with less investment.
6. Choose your means of payment
The choice of means of payment is an added difficulty for those companies that are interested in starting with exports and imports. Our recommendation is that you raise your payment methods according to the territory, your sales and your client.
7. Determine the prices of your products
When you address international clients, you must make an accurate description of your products and correctly define your prices. Take into account your costs in bank commissions and other expenses derived from the exchange of currencies with respect to your local currency.
8. Advice and taxation
The tax regulations are not the same in all countries and neither is the necessary documentation. Always opt for professional services, and properly inform yourself of the licenses you will need to carry out your exports and imports.
9. Generate alliances
You may want to start foreign trade on your own, but we recommend that you do not do it alone. The good development of international commercial operations requires experience, knowledge and training. Therefore, the search for a local partner will provide you peace of mind and security in terms of logistics and transport planning for your products.
