How Freight Forwarding Can Work For You
International shipping, both importing and exporting, can include a whole host of carriers and legalities. Fortunately, freight forwarding services are available to manage the overwhelming logistics involved.
Tariff Classification Is Serious Business
Importing and exporting product requires a significant amount of paperwork. If that paperwork is not completely properly and within the law, then your business can come to a screeching halt.
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Export Labeling Requirements: Are You Prepared?
You researched demand, tested samples and worked out international pricing. The European market is ready for your product, but are you ready to ship?
Cross-Cultural Communication Barriers Cost Big Bucks
One of the biggest obstacles you may face when conducting international business is that of communication. The person with whom you’re dealing may speak English, but does he or she actually speak your language?
Communication barriers cost time and money and can quickly result in ill will between client and supplier. An experienced global sourcing agent can keep the lines of communication open and the international business relationship healthy and positive. […]
When the Product You Ordered is Not What’s Delivered
There are enough delays in international business without placing a large order for product or supplies only to have the wrong items arrive at your doorstep weeks or months later. At that point, you’re back to square one – and now your schedule has been delayed, your budget has been altered, and your frustration level is undoubtedly sky-high.
How Did This Happen?
One of the biggest questions you want answered immediately after an incorrect shipment is: “How did this happen?” Oftentimes, working with subpar or unverified international suppliers will result in errors in shipments and, unfortunately, money lost. […]
The Two Biggest Reasons Shipping Goes Wrong
Here’s a version of a question that global sourcing agents often hear: “I was told my product would be delivered to my place in Chicago. So why is it in Miami?” Unfortunately, all too often, people who attempt to import from China manufacturers without professional international trade guidance find themselves in a sticky situation when their order does not end up where they originally asked for it to be.
There are many ways that logistics can go wrong when it comes to importing goods. It’s not that people dealing with international suppliers intentionally exercise poor judgment – you just want to get your results quickly and in the best way possible. But your good intentions could be your doom. […]
Apple Can’t Afford Manufacturing Delays – Can You?
With the release of a new Apple product comes incredibly high demand. The iPhone 5 officially debuted on September 21 and has already encountered setbacks in production. Demand is far higher than supply, and these troubles have been compounded by difficulties with overseas suppliers.
Foxconn Technology Group in Taiwan assembles iPhones, but they found it necessary to close a plant in China after 2,000 workers were involved in a brawl. Is the shutdown temporary or permanent? Only time will tell. But the fact is, Apple is scrambling to get production back on track. […]
How to Avoid the Biggest Errors in International Trade
Whether you run a large organization, a small company, or you’re doing everything solo, the goal is always to find the most cost-efficient ways to take care of every part of your business.
When your line of work requires you to deal in the world of international trade, things don’t have to get complicated. It isn’t necessary to hire another employee, develop a new department, or try to figure out the intricacies of overseas importing all on your own. […]
How to Get Your Offshore Products “From There to Here”
First-time importers will discover as they investigate the process of importing that finding a quality manufacturer is not the only challenge. Once you’ve determined what importer you will be working with, the next obstacle to overcome is getting your offshore products to your doorstep. […]
Determining the Viability of China Manufacturers That Advertise Online
Alibaba, Made-in-China, Global Sources, and B2B China Sources are familiar online marketplaces and directories – but just because something pops up first in an online search result does not automatically make it a legitimate and reliable resource for global sourcing. […]