Import and Export Links and Web Sites

Department for Business Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (BERR)

Import Licensing Branch (ILB). Tel: 01642 364333/334

Government import and export info

International Chamber of Commerce Incoterms page

Remember

Are your products able to be imported or exported? Are they restricted, or do you need a licence to move them?

Will your products work once imported, or are modifications or extras needed for them to work? Are they compatible with the related products of the country? If not, you need to tell your customers.

Some products require instructions to be in the language of the country, you may need to produce them yourself to import them legally.

Every product has different duty and VAT rates, make sure you are fully aware of what you need to pay, and what you can claim back. (Especially if you are not currently VAT registered).

To avoid charging VAT on exports, you must have proof that the goods have been exported.

The majority of imports and exports to/from outside of the EU need to be declared to Customs and Excise. Those from inside the EU do not usually need declaring unless you are VAT registered and import/export over £233,000 worth of goods a year.

Training is a cost effective way to provide long term knowledge of the rules and regulations that govern your imports and exports.

It is important to arrange in advance which currency payment will be made in, and who will bear the costs of any conversion charges.

Payments in advance, or a letter of credit are the best methods of payment if you are exporting, but an open account is the best method if you are importing.

You can use Incoterms to make a set of fair terms and conditions for delivery. This will ensure that any problems are solved quickly and fairly.

‘Goods in Transit Insurance’ provides cover against damaged or late goods, if you are importing it is almost always worth taking.

There are several different ways to sell your products abroad, by looking at each method carefully, you will be able to find the most cost effective solution for your business and product in each market you wish to enter. Larger companies often use country expansion, but small businesses are usually better using direct sales or a distributor.

1 Getting Started in Imports and Exports

2 Export and Import Regulations and Taxes

3 Payments and Insurance with Exports and Imports

4 How Will Exports Be Sold

5 Import and Export Links