10 Sure Ways to Find a Supplier and Import Goods from China like an Expert Trader

Importing and marketing products from China is indeed a profitable and growing business venture that many entrepreneurs are interested of investing into. With the low production and development costs of Chinese products, profits for investors are maximized. To succeed in importing goods though, several steps and procedures shall be carefully performed to eliminate pitfalls and hassles which can jeopardize your business plans.

1. Search for the products you are interested to import. Several internet resources provide services in giving you adequate details about the product you are planning to import including the supply information and price list. When probing through search engines, the first 100 results provide you with the most significant details about the product of your concern.
2. Select suppliers matching your specific needs. Different categories of suppliers are available in the international market ranging from small family-operated businesses to big corporations. Categorize them accordingly and accomplish a file containing their company name, contact details and other important notes.
3. Initiate communication and beginning relationships with potential suppliers. Leading suppliers already have a considerable number of clientele which makes it extremely important for you to provide important and interesting information about your company. That information shall motivate and persuade the supplier to do business with you.
4. Choose the supplier(s) you really want to do business with. After initiating contact with your potential suppliers, further your business relationship with the ones whom you think can meet your demands and needs. By this time, you need to engage into discussions about the product price and other trade matters. Obtaining product samples and evaluating them will also be helpful.
5. Familiarize on the payment and trade terms. Two most common shipment terms are FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) which you need to understand about. You can solicit services from an import management company to sufficiently assess your costs and risks. Suppliers usually require a 30% down payment to fund for the raw materials needed to manufacture the necessary products.
6. Understand and comply with the national regulatory requisites. Aside from the supplier, you also have that responsibility to make sure necessary documents are furnished and national standards are met for you to avoid lawsuits. Government authorities involved in national regulation of entry of imported goods include the US Customs and Border Protection, and other departments such as the DOT, USDA, FDA, and ATF.
7. Accomplish a trial order. Indicate in your written purchase order specific details on product descriptions and packaging requirements among others.
8. Designate an inspection company to assess and give you information on the product quality. Quality inspection done early during the production process is necessary to avoid hassles of shipping low-quality and defective goods.
9. Participate in the tracking on the transportation of products. Collaborate with your forwarder and customs broker regarding the delivery of the products and the compliance of customs clearance.
10. Keep important documents and records on the received products. Upon receiving the products, secure the important documents for you to keep track on your investments and profits