These tips are based on many years of importing goods, mainly from China.

6. Negotiate with Suppliers

I would recommend finding several potential suppliers and ask them for MOQ (Minimum order quantities) and prices on different volumes.
You should be able to negotiate both the price and MOQ down.  I have  included a sample order where I only had to buy 50 of some items.  The MOQ was originally a whole carton of each which was 300 to 500 depending on the product.

7. Use A complete Shipping Service

I use a shipping agent who handles everything – collects it from the factory, ships it, handles customs, and then delivers it to my door.  This makes life easy.
You must also check if insurance is included – you may have to arrange this separately.

8. Check Your Costing

Be carefully to include all costs when working out if it is worth importing a product.
Include cost of products (plus bank charges for transferring money abroad., shipping and any import duties and other taxes.

9. Take Pre-Orders

For some items you may be able to take pre-orders from friends and family so that you know you have sold a proportion of the order before it even arrives.  You may also be able to do this with retailers in your area.

10. Make Sure You Run This As A Business

Keep proper records of everything – check with a professional to make sure you are running you business correctly and complying with all relevant rules and regulations

Finally I would like to wish you good luck with your importing business, should you decide to go ahead, and keep checking my blog for useful hints and tips.

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