Import or Export, OR Import/Export? HELP

**Freakintelligent** · 04-09-2008 09:01 AM

The Import/Export business is something that I really am focusing on. There are just so many guidlines and so many stories I've heard about people making one mistake and it costing them their business plus more. Some went to jail and some had BIG fines and had their license taken.
Is there's one major thing in the Import/Export business that could make me or break me?
I also hear about alot of little mistakes that really determine a persons future.
I just don't want to think I know it all and then I end up failing. I'm 21yrs old, and very determined when it comes to the Import/Export Business. If you have any advice/opinions that you could give me on this business would help out alot!

As of right now i'm only importing clothing and selling them to different flea market vendors, It's good money (I can pay my bills and not work for anyone else) but it's not what I would like to do much longer. I either want my own clothing store, my own website that sells clothing, or my own beauty supply store until I really get the hang of the whole Import/Export Business. Because I don't want to jump in until I know the rules from A to Z.

Is my head in the right place?

**Gaulkin** · 04-09-2008 11:31 AM

I read about it, there are easier ways to make money without all the hassle.

**Warranties-For-Less** · 04-09-2008 12:06 PM

Originally Posted by Freakintelligent

The Import/Export business is something that I really am focusing on. There are just so many guidlines and so many stories I've heard about people making one mistake and it costing them their business plus more. Some went to jail and some had BIG fines and had their license taken.
Is there's one major thing in the Import/Export business that could make me or break me?
I also hear about alot of little mistakes that really determine a persons future.
I just don't want to think I know it all and then I end up failing. I'm 21yrs old, and very determined when it comes to the Import/Export Business. If you have any advice/opinions that you could give me on this business would help out alot!

As of right now i'm only importing clothing and selling them to different flea market vendors, It's good money (I can pay my bills and not work for anyone else) but it's not what I would like to do much longer. I either want my own clothing store, my own website that sells clothing, or my own beauty supply store until I really get the hang of the whole Import/Export Business. Because I don't want to jump in until I know the rules from A to Z.

Is my head in the right place?

First, don't fear failure or you will never make it in your own business. You are young, so expect to fail a few times in your lifetime for this is what defines an entrepreneur, one who takes the risk, along with the rewards.

Retail clothing is a tough business, and a far cry from flea market vender due to the overhead. In retail, it is location, location, location, and this equals big bucks for lease in mall, stip shopping center or similar high traffic areas. Having imported clothes at low price is one thing, but quality is another, so you have to choose your market carefully.

With many businesses now advertising U.S. made clothes only, I would not be thinking about opening a store with nothing but imported clothing with dollar dropping like a rock, so there is a lot to think about before going retail. I don't know where you are purchasing your merchandise for flea market, but I can tell you this, made in China is under pressure more every day with all the bad press on lead paint, poisen pet food, toothpaste, etc. Never mind people not liking what they are seeing with policy in China on freedom with Olympic protests going on, changing market looms ahead, so think ahead is what is most important before starting any business.

Good luck to all, Mike

**Freakintelligent** · 04-09-2008 01:02 PM

Originally Posted by Gaulkin

I read about it, there are easier ways to make money without all the hassle.

Like what?

**Freakintelligent** · 04-09-2008 01:08 PM

Originally Posted by Warranties-For-Less

First, don't fear failure or you will never make it in your own business. You are young, so expect to fail a few times in your lifetime for this is what defines an entrepreneur, one who takes the risk, along with the rewards.

I don't fear failing, failing gives alot of experience to an entrepreneur. My dad has told me that alot. It's just that i want to listen and take in all the information possible, so that if I do fail it won't be a small mistake that caused it.