[hooped]

Hello everyone , I'm glad I found this forum it looks like there is lots of experienced people here that know much about a topic I'm sure that has been out before.

Importing from China.

I am not so interested in finding the source but instead hearing from people that have actually done this and can suggest ways to best make my purchase, but yet not send ( cash in the envelope) ..

Are there ways to secure my transaction to insure the items arrive?

I'm looking into the area of Batteries imported into the usa for cam corders and so on.

What can I expect on Taxes or tariffs or so on?

Would I be better hiring a broker?

Any information from a seasoned importer would be appreciated.

[Verberatum]

While I am by no means an expert in importing I have consulted on projects that involved importing. In most scenarios you really do need an import/customs broker. They just make everything a lot easier. Every consulate (i.e. chinese consulate) has a division that helps U.S. businesses import goods from their country. That may also be a great place to start. You should definitely look into escrow services at well. Gather as much free advice as possible. There are also some good books out there on the subject.

Importing is a business of optimizing costs, if you can get it here for cheaper and distribute it effectively you win. There are a lot of costs (freight, taxes, delivery, storage, broker fees) involved in the process so I highly recommend doing your homework first. You may also want to start talking to manufacturers in china if that is possible, there are also companies in the U.S. that have existing relationships with overseas manufacturers (Global Sourcing, Importing, etc.) that may also help steer you in the right direction.

Good Luck!!

-Dan

[hooped]

Originally posted by Verberatum
While I am by no means an expert in importing I have consulted on projects that involved importing. In most scenarios you really do need an import/customs broker. They just make everything a lot easier. Every consulate (i.e. chinese consulate) has a division that helps U.S. businesses import goods from their country. That may also be a great place to start. You should definitely look into escrow services at well. Gather as much free advice as possible. There are also some good books out there on the subject.

Importing is a business of optimizing costs, if you can get it here for cheaper and distribute it effectively you win. There are a lot of costs (freight, taxes, delivery, storage, broker fees) involved in the process so I highly recommend doing your homework first. You may also want to start talking to manufacturers in china if that is possible, there are also companies in the U.S. that have existing relationships with overseas manufacturers (Global Sourcing, Importing, etc.) that may also help steer you in the right direction.

Good Luck!!

-Dan

So what would you sugest as far as a broker, and will the broker help enlighten me as to how tranfer of money should occur to help protect my investment. any more decruptive info from a seasoned vetran would also be great.

Also I am required to use a broker if being shipped via air to my nearest airport?

[hooped]

Bumping up ..hoping for more input on this.

[Aletheides]

Unless you are planning on importing more than 2,000 USD worth of goods per load, I wouldn't suggest wasting your time looking for a broker.

When the seller from China sends to you, ask for insurance.

Don't send cash in envelope, 99% of Chinese distributors are familiar with Western Union. Very quick and easy. I just send a payment yesterday for 700 bucks and it only cost me 14 USD to send.

For tariffs, look it up. http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/bychapter/index.htm

Quick tip: Ask for samples first. If you are dealing with a lot of money, invest in a bank with a strong international department. Read up on LOCs.

Good luck!