Want to start import and export business? Henze, a certified import and export trade professional offers the following tips for getting started:

1. Many countries have established offices (consulates or embassies) abroad to facilitate the export of their goods. The consulate will provide you with an industry directory and more. The embassy is located in the national capital and consulates of different cities. In many cases, the embassy website will contain a list of directories and manufacturers, as well as an email link that you can use for purchasing.

2. Import the goods and communicate with the consulate in your country. If you are unsure what other countries want to produce, you can get the manufacturer's catalog and list.

3. Please contact your tax Office to inquire about the registration number or other procedures you must follow. For example, if you are a Canadian, you will need a registration number issued by the Canadian Customs and Tax Agency (CATA). When you notify CCTA of your import or export plan, they issue an extension to your business number. This number is used for all related documents.

4. Understand the licensing requirements (if any). Many countries do not have licensing requirements for most products. However, if you are importing or exporting high-risk products (pharmaceuticals, alcohol, chemicals, weapons, certain foodstuffs and certain clothing products), you may need a license. "I strongly advise people to start with low-risk projects that can be easily traded and have fewer barriers such as gifts and consumer items," Henzel said.  "Some industries, such as dairy products, are guarded by lobbying groups in some countries." You will face quotas and restrictions.

5. The embargo is a trade barrier established with other countries. For example, many countries have imposed embargoes on Cuba. First, contact your own government to determine whether there are restrictions or embargoes on the country you are considering. Next, contact the country's consulate or embassy to see if your country has any restrictions on the goods.

6. If there is no local trade committee, join the local Industry Committee (or Chamber of Commerce). In addition to the network, you can access research libraries and other resources to provide good trade information.

7. Use of customs agents. "Small businesses that try their own paperwork may experience delays on the border," he said. If you make a mistake, you can be fined, Henzel said.  "Custom agent services are well worth the fees you pay."

8. When exporting, it is understood that there is no solution to transport and customs treatment under any circumstances. Each deal is different. Each company and each set of products needs a different set of services or combination services. It is possible to engage in freight forwarding services. Freight forwarders arrange shipments to other countries for transport and customs.  "You have to buy these services and do your research," Henzel explains.  "Ask a lot of questions. It's no different than buying a piece of furniture. You go for a stroll first.

9. Familiar with Incoterms, such as posting to ICC website (http://www.iccwbo.org/index_incoterms.asp). Incoterms are standard trade definitions that stipulate the freight and liability of each party. These two companies are involved in the incoterms for each trade term. The most famous incoterms include EXW (ex-Works), FOB (free), CIF (cost, premium and freight), DDU (unpaid taxes) and CPT (freight payment).  "You are negotiating in accordance with INCOTERMS," Henzel said.  "You decide who pays for the freight, who pays the insurance, etc. "

10. Please consult your bank for information on the letter of credit, which is the most common method of payment in international transactions. With a letter of credit, you can minimize your risk because the bank guarantees that the goods will be delivered before redemption. As an importer, the letter of credit reduces the risk of having to pay the goods in advance, or the cost of goods that are not in conformity with the product description in the letter. As an exporter, you have the buyer's bank guarantee that you will receive payment if you ship the goods within the agreed time specified.

11. Participation in trade missions. Consult your trade committee or local Chamber of Commerce to find out what is available.

12. Finally, look at the information on the Internet about international trade. Many sites provide a set of information that you can access for free, such as (www.gvacuum.com).