5 essential tips for a successful import

The number of import businesses is growing every year, and for good reason. When done correctly, doing an import business can be very lucrative. However, despite the fact that many people choose to become importers, only a small fraction of them are able to succeed.

Why is that? Because most importing companies cannot import properly. When it comes to importing a good, it is essential that companies carefully plan the process and execute it flawlessly. For anyone planning to start or grow an import business, here are 5 essential tips for a successful import.

1. Know the hold-up policies
Sometimes, people leave their containers at the port for longer than the allotted "free" time. After this time has elapsed, ports or rail stations charge a fee for containers left behind.

The fee, or demurrage charge, may be charged per day or according to the size of the container. In either case, demurrage charges can be very high. Therefore, companies should make sure they are aware of the charges and when they will be levied.

Fortunately, it is not complicated to find demurrage rates. A quick Google search will show you most of the information you need to know. These fees are usually available on government websites.

These demurrage charges are imposed so that ports and railways can ensure that containers are used efficiently. These charges are also used to compensate shipping lines for overtime and also to encourage importers to clear their goods within a reasonable time.

To prevent costs from rising and to keep profit margins high, companies should remove their containers as soon as possible.

2. Ensure that there are no prohibited goods
When importing goods from a different country, it is necessary to account for goods that are prohibited in either country. For example, you are allowed to import wine into the US and Europe, but not into some Muslim countries. Some prohibited goods that cannot be imported into the UK are controlled drugs, dangerous weapons, pepper spray, endangered animals and inappropriate material.

For a successful import, companies must ensure that the product they are importing is not banned. In some cases, a company may obtain a licence or permit to allow the import of a banned product into a country. If a company ends up ordering something prohibited, it can try to obtain the permit.

3. Know the packaging rules
In many countries, imported goods must be packaged in a certain way for the import to be successful. This is mainly to prevent damage to the goods.

Goods can go through extreme weather conditions and be subjected to harsh loading conditions. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that they are packed in accordance with the requirements to avoid damage.

When planning for importation, companies should keep a record of the packaging requirements and policies of the countries from which they are importing.

4. Be careful with routing
Sometimes the route between one country and another is simple and straightforward. Sometimes it is not. In the case of indirect routes, there is a greater risk of delay in delivery. Therefore, it is essential for companies to research the route and know whether they should expect a delay in delivery.

After knowing the route and the possibility of delay, a company will have the option to cancel the shipment or take a different route. This can help prevent uncertainty in the import business.

In addition, when a shipment moves from one country to another, it may pass through different countries along the way. Sometimes, those countries may require a check, even if the goods are not for them. When a company does this research, it is vital to make sure that we are also aware of these laws.

5. Make sure you are working with the right people
Importing a good is a team effort. If even one person on the team is left behind, the whole team slows down and the import may not go smoothly.

When importing something, companies must obtain an import authorisation through a clearing agent. For a successful import, importers must hire a qualified and experienced customs broker. While obtaining the authorisation, a company must also have a commercial team to prepare essential documents, such as the commercial invoice.

If you need to purchase goods in China, we also recommend that you hire a professional purchasing agent in China, who will help you to smoothly complete the purchase and export of your goods. Our company CHINA-LATIN is a professional sourcing agent and logistics company serving Latin American customers, with 7 years of sourcing experience and is a reliable partner. If you need help with your imports, please contact us.

Original article from：
https://www.icontainers.com/es/2021/03/22/5-consejos-esenciales-importacion-exitosa-2021/