Importing SMEs currently have many facilities for carrying out foreign trade operations. However, it is advisable to have a comprehensive management company that simplifies procedures and negotiates with suppliers
International trade opportunities for importing SMEs are abundant today. However, before starting a business importing products from Asia, it is necessary to analyze four key points that will largely determine the success of the operation.
Selecting a Profitable Product
Marketing experts advise choosing a product with high demand and high turnover in the target market. Corporate gifts, seasonal goods, hospitality supplies (bedding, towels, tablecloths…), or raw materials for certain sectors that need to stock large quantities of product (food, cosmetics, construction…) are some examples of easy-to-import goods due to their high consumption. These types of operations are profitable if large volumes of goods are imported, which requires thinking about storage and the product’s sales calendar.
In this sense, to start an import business, it is advisable to focus on a single product that is well known. This way, it will be easier for importing SMEs to order manufacturing or importing with the necessary specifications and without errors.
An important factor when choosing a product is its market positioning. Nowadays, finding a truly novel product is very complicated, so differentiation must be sought, whether through quality, originality, price, or any other element. Creating a brand for the products is neither complicated nor expensive. On the contrary, adding a logo to the product and packaging will add value to the merchandise.
Choosing a Reliable Supplier
The number of suppliers available in the Asian market is countless. However, not all of them offer the same reliability. Before signing a contract with a supplier, it is necessary to meet with several to verify their production capacity, solvency, and commitment to delivery dates.
Trade fairs are an excellent showcase for importing SMEs to get in touch with suppliers. However, this task can be very costly in terms of time and money if meetings are scheduled with each one. Having an ally like Bull Importer to handle the research and selection greatly simplifies the process.
Even so, before placing the order, it is advisable to request product samples to verify that they meet the specifications and requirements for import.
Transportation
The transportation of goods from Asia has a cost that cannot be overlooked, as any small error can be very costly. The two main modes of transportation are by air and by sea.
Air shipping is usually efficient for high-density, low-volume cargo, such as plastic or metal products. One of its main advantages is time savings. However, it is the most expensive method and not viable for large-volume cargo.
Sea shipping is more economical, although delivery times are longer. It is the ideal transportation for large and heavy loads. A basic aspect of sea shipping is calculating the times.
