PlanBuildr Logo

Import Export Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Trade Global Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Trade Global business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Trade Global businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Trade Global business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Trade Global is a startup Import/Export company located in Houston, Texas. The company was founded by Ted Rogers, who has deep experience as a wholesale distribution executive. Ted has long aspired to work for himself, and has been systematically acquiring the tools and knowledge necessary to successfully operate an import/export business. The combination of his skills and drive positions him to succeed. What’s more, he has an extensive network of contacts across the globe, which will provide an edge in acquiring clientele.

Product Offering

Trade Global has acquired a warehouse in Hong Kong, and has entered into contracts with five Asian manufacturers to export goods to the United States. As the company gains credibility and grows its client base, it has plans to begin building its own fleet of cargo ships that will carry goods both into and out of the United States.

Customer Focus

Trade Global will procure products from manufacturers and wholesale products to distributors throughout the United States, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

Management Team

Trade Global will be owned and operated by Ted Rogers. Ted has a background as a wholesaler, and is a graduate of Michigan State University’s Supply Chain Management program, and subsequently earned an Export/Import Certificate from the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).

Success Factors

Trade Global will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

  • Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly qualified owner
  • An ideal warehouse location in Hong Kong, with ample room for expansion
  • FTZ status with Port Houston

Financial Highlights

Trade Global is seeking $750,000 in debt financing to launch its import/export operation. The funding will be dedicated towards procuring, packing, and shopping products, and payroll of the staff until the firm reaches break even. The breakout of the funding is below:

  • Inventory: $250,000
  • Shipping costs: $250,000
  • Office equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
  • Overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $200,000
  • Marketing costs: $20,000
  • Working capital: $20,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Trade Global.

Trade Global Pro Forma Financial Projections

Company Overview

Who is trade global.

Trade Global is a startup import/export company located in Hong Kong and Houston, Texas. The company was founded by Ted Rogers, who has deep experience as a wholesale distribution executive. Ted has long aspired to work for himself, and has been systematically acquiring the tools and knowledge necessary to successfully operate an import/export business. The combination of his skills and drive positions him to succeed. What’s more, he has an extensive network of contacts across the globe, which will provide an edge in acquiring clientele.

  Trade Global aims to deliver a wide variety of goods both into and out of the United States. The team is highly qualified and experienced in sales and supply chain management.

Trade Global History

Trade Global is owned and operated by Ted Rogers, a former distribution executive and ICC certified Importer/Exporter. Ted has worked for a large wholesale company and oversaw a wide variety of accounts from around the world. Derek’s tenure with the wholesale distribution company, as well as his education in Supply Chain Management has given him the skills and knowledge required to venture out and start his own company. Ted has been awarded contracts with two large Chinese manufacturers, which guarantees Trade Global stability while it works to increase its reach.

Since incorporation, Trade Global has achieved the following milestones:

  • Registered Trade Global, LLC to transact business in the state of Texas.
  • Acquired an import license from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • Has acquired an existing warehouse in Hong Kong.
  • Reached out to numerous manufacturers to apply for wholesale contracts.
  • Entered into a contract with a deep sea cargo transportation company.
  • Began recruiting warehouse workers, and office personnel to work at Trade Global.

Trade Global Services

Trade Global has signed contracts with two manufacturers, to export goods from China to the US. It will begin as a small exporter, with ample warehouse space for growth. The company will keep abreast of logistics technology innovations as it grows.

Industry Analysis

The US import/export industry is significant in terms of revenue. According to the United States International Trade Commission (USITC), the total value of US goods and services exports in 2022 was approximately $2.09 trillion, and the value of imports was approximately $3.0 trillion. This resulted in a trade deficit of roughly $948.1 billion for the year. The revenue generated by the industry is a combination of goods and services exported and imported by the United States.

Over the last few decades, the US import/export industry has seen consistent growth. The USITC data indicates that the total value of US exports and imports has grown substantially since the 1980s. This growth is influenced by factors such as globalization, trade agreements, technological advancements, and evolving consumer demands.

The trade deficit, which occurs when the value of imports exceeds exports, has been a subject of concern for policymakers. Reducing the trade deficit has been a goal of various US administrations.

Several trends have shaped the US import/export industry:

  • Globalization: Increased globalization has allowed US businesses to access international markets and global supply chains. This trend has led to an expansion in both exports and imports, as well as an interconnected global economy.
  • E-commerce: The growth of e-commerce has had a substantial impact on the industry. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have easier access to international markets through online platforms, leading to a boost in exports of services and goods.
  • Trade Policies: Trade policies, such as tariffs and trade agreements, have a significant impact on the industry. The US has experienced trade tensions with several countries, notably China. These policies can influence the types of goods and services that are imported and exported.
  • Technology: Advancements in technology have made it easier for businesses to engage in international trade. Technologies like blockchain, logistics software, and automation have improved efficiency and tracking in the import/export process.
  • Environmental and Ethical Concerns: There is a growing focus on sustainable and ethical trade practices. Consumers and businesses are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of products, leading to changes in supply chain management and the types of goods being imported and exported.
  • Geopolitical Factors: Geopolitical factors, such as trade relations with China, Brexit, and tensions in the Middle East, can affect trade patterns and the stability of the import/export industry.

Customer Analysis

Profile of target market.

Trade Global will initially target manufacturing companies in China, and wholesale companies in the US.

The precise data for these target markets are:

China In 2022, the total merchandise exports from China amounted to around 24 trillion yuan. This included 6.3 trillion yuan worth of high and new-tech products and over 13.6 trillion yuan worth of mechanical and electronic products.

Exported Goods from China

As of 2021, there were around 25,200 state-owned industrial enterprises above designated size in China.

Number of industrial enterprises China 2011-2021, by ownership

United States The Wholesale Trade sector is an intermediary step in the supply chain process. Companies in the sector distribute goods from agriculture, mining, manufacturing and information industries to downstream markets, typically without any transformation. In 2023, the US Wholesale sector is valued at $11.3 trillion.

Figure 3

Customer Segmentation

Trade Global will primarily target the following customer profiles:

  • Small to medium manufacturers of FMCG in China
  • Wholesale distributors of FMCG in US

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Trade Global will face competition from other companies with similar business models. A description of each competitor company is below.

Global Electronic Imports & Exports, Inc.

Established in 1990, Global Electronic Imports & Exports specializes in the import and export of consumer electronics, including smartphones, tablets, and audio equipment. They also deal in a range of accessories and components related to consumer electronics.

Global Electronic Imports & Exports has long-standing partnerships with major electronics manufacturers in Asia, including Samsung, LG, and Panasonic. They also collaborate with major US-based retailers for distribution.

Global Electronic Imports & Exports reported an annual trade volume of approximately $150 million in consumer electronics and related products last year.

Natural Foods International

Established in 2005, Natural Foods International specializes in the import and export of food products, with a focus on organic and non-GMO items. They deal in a wide range of commodities, including grains, nuts, and dried fruits.

The company has established partnerships with a network of international organic farms and cooperatives. They also have distribution agreements with major US grocery chains, such as Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe’s.

Last year, Natural Foods International reported a trade volume of approximately $85 million in organic and non-GMO food products.

Titan Heavy Machinery, Inc.

Established in 1998, Titan Heavy Machinery is a specialized import/export company focusing on the heavy equipment and construction industry. Their product range includes excavators, bulldozers, and industrial vehicles.

The company has close partnerships with leading heavy machinery manufacturers, particularly in Japan and Germany. They also collaborate with construction and mining companies in the US and overseas.

Last year, Titan Heavy Machinery reported a trade volume of approximately $60 million in heavy equipment and machinery, serving the construction and infrastructure development sectors.

Competitive Advantage

Trade Global will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

  • Smaller, more personal operation, with highly-qualified supply chain experts
  • Trade Global stays abreast of all technology developments, constantly seeks to improve the supply chain, and delivers an accurate and complete shipment to each customer.
  • Trade Global offers competitive pricing for its services. Their pricing structure is the most cost effective compared to the competition.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Trade Global will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

  • Highly-qualified team of supply chain experts that provide a comprehensive suite of export/import services (sales, packaging, shipping, customs, tariff/financial, marketing, expedient delivery).
  • Unbeatable pricing to its clients – Trade Global does not mark up its services at a large percentage, offering competitive pricing.

Promotions Strategy

Flexibility and adaptability are key in marketing, as the import/export industry is subject to changes in international trade policies, global economic conditions, and shifting market dynamics.

The promotions strategy for Trade Global is as follows:

Create a Strong Online Presence:

Trade Global will build a professional, user-friendly website that showcases the company’s services, products, and expertise. The site will be optimized for search engines (SEO) to improve its visibility in online search results.

Network and Build Relationships:

Trade Global will make a point of attending a variety of trade shows and industry events to meet potential clients, suppliers, and partners, since building and maintaining relationships in the import/export industry is often critical to success.

Trade Global will also join industry-specific associations and chambers of commerce to gain credibility and access a network of contacts.

Online Marketing:

Trade Global will list products or services on established online B2B marketplaces like Alibaba, Global Sources, or TradeIndia to reach a global audience.

Trade Global will launch an email marketing campaign to reach potential clients, partners, and suppliers. Share industry news, company updates, and promotional offers.

The company will use online advertising platforms such as Google Ads and social media advertising to deliver targeted ads that promote import/export services.

Trade Publications and Directories:

Trade Global will advertise the business in relevant industry directories and advertise in trade publications specific to each product niche.

Trade Global’s pricing will be moderate and on par with competitors so clients feel they receive value when purchasing their goods and services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Trade Global. Operation Functions:

  • Ted Rogers will initially handle all procurement, finding goods, buyers for goods, negotiating prices, and arranging logistics.
  • The company will employ an administrative assistant, who will handle all documentation and answer non-urgent communications.
  • The company will employ three warehouse managers to oversee logistics operations.

Milestones:

Trade Global will have the following milestones complete in the next eight months.

  • 5/1/202X – Finalize construction of warehouse space
  • 6/1/202X – Complete recruitment process for warehouse management
  • 6/15/202X – Finalize shipping partnerships
  • 8/1/202X – Finalize wholesale contracts
  • 11/15/202X – Complete hiring of warehouse team
  • 12/1/202X – Receive first products intended for export

Trade Global will be owned and operated by Ted Rogers, who will oversee the procurement and logistical operations.

Ted Rogers has a background in wholesale, and is a graduate of Michigan State University’s Supply Chain Management program, and subsequently earned an Export/Import Certificate from the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).

Trade Global has begun the recruitment process for experienced Warehouse Managers in Hong Kong, and expects to complete the hiring process within one month.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Trade Global will largely rely on finding the best buyers for products being imported/exported. In addition, negotiating the lowest shipping costs will be a significant factor in revenue realized.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required to procure goods, and operate the warehouse. The major expenses will be payroll, and shipping costs.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and to pay off the startup business loan.

  • Sales Revenue: Projected sales revenue will be broken down by product or service, region, and customer segments.
  • Gross Margin: Profit projections will account for variations in costs, such as shipping, import duties, and currency fluctuations.
  • Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): This includes the cost of acquiring the goods for import or export.
  • Currency Exchange Rates: Exchange rates can significantly impact the financial performance of an importer/exporter.
  • Credit Terms: Credit terms offered to customers and suppliers impact cash flow and working capital requirements.
  • Inventory Turnover: Carrying costs and storage expenses will impact profit; therefore, an accurate forecast of how quickly inventory will need to be replenished is important
  • Taxes and Duties: Import/export duties, taxes, and customs fees based on the countries involved in the trade
  • Economic Conditions: inflation rates, interest rates, and political stability can affect profitability

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, trade global business plan faqs, what is an import export business plan.

An import export business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your import export business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Import Export business plan using our Import Export Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Import Export Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of import export businesses , some examples include: Export management company, Export trading company, and Import-export merchant (or free agent).

How Do You Get Funding for Your Import Export Business Plan?

Import Export businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start an Import Export Business?

Starting an import export business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop An Import Export Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed import export business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your import export business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your import export business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Import Export Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your import export business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your import export business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Import Export Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your import export business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your import export business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising.

BusinessDojo

Item added to your cart

How to write a business plan for your import/export company.

business plan for an import/export company

Starting an import/export company can be a great way to capitalize on global markets and create a profitable business.

It can also open up opportunities to source and sell products from different countries, allowing businesses to benefit from cost savings, new markets, and a wider selection of products.

Don't start without having built a business plan though.

Writing a business plan before starting a new project is an important step to ensure success. It will help identify potential risks and opportunities, and provide a roadmap for the project.

In short, a good business plan will help ensure the profitability of your import/export company .

What information should you put into the business plan of an import/export company? How should it be arranged? What financial metrics should be included? What are some tips for writing a business plan in the most efficient way possible?

Good news, you can find all the answers to these questions in the forthcoming article!

One last thing: it's not mandatory to start your business plan from scratch.

You can download our professional business plan for an import/export company and adjust it to match your preferences.

business plan international trading company

Crafting an elaborate business plan for an import/export company

Should you consider writing a business plan for your import/export company.

Yes, you should consider writing a business plan for your import/export company.

Designing a cohesive business plan will equip you to:

  • learn about the import/export market
  • stay tuned to the industry's fresh trends
  • establish what makes an import/export company thriving
  • understand market demands and international trade regulations to facilitate efficient import/export operations
  • come up with a great value proposition for your global trade firm
  • assess competitor brand reputation
  • discover competitive differentiators for your import/export company
  • find a business model that will lead to a positive bottom line
  • establish and execute a strategic action plan to drive sustainable growth
  • assess potential risks involved in running an import/export company, such as customs regulations, supply chain disruptions, and international trade policies

Our team has created a business plan for an import/export company to help you accomplish all the elements that have been listed

How to structure a business plan for an import/export company?

Your business plan will be filled with various metrics and data. It must be well structured, to make easy to read and digest.

When we built our business plan for an import/export company , we made sure to outline it properly.

There are 5 main sections (Opportunity, Project, Market Research, Strategy and Finances).

1. Market Opportunity

The opening section is labeled as "Market Opportunity."

Discover important data and figures about the import/export industry in this section, helping you understand global trade dynamics and market opportunities.

The data here is always fresh; we update it twice a year.

2. Project Presentation

In the "Project" section, you can detail your import/export company, specifying the products or goods you trade, target markets or countries, logistics and shipping capabilities, customs regulations expertise, trade financing services, and the unique value proposition that ensures smooth international trade transactions for your clients.

Also include a short description about yourself at the end of this section.

Explain your expertise in import/export operations, your knowledge of international trade regulations, and how you plan to provide seamless import/export services to clients. Highlight your network of global partners, your ability to navigate complex customs procedures, and your dedication to ensuring smooth and efficient international trade transactions for your customers.

We've written descriptions for you. You can keep them as they are or customize them to fit your business idea perfectly.

3. Market Research

Then, we reach the "Market Research" section.

In this section, you will find a detailed market segmentation analysis for your import/export company.

It includes a presentation of other import/export companies in the industry that will be competing with you. Your company's expertise in international trade and competitive advantages are also highlighted. A customized SWOT analysis is included.

4. Strategy

The "Strategy" section encompasses a complete growth plan, delineating the necessary steps and initiatives to make your import/export company exceptionally profitable.

Moreover, this section comprises a marketing plan, a strategy to mitigate risks, and a completed Business Model Canvas.

5. Finances

In the end, you'll find the "Finances" section, which outlines the financial details of your project.

business plan import/export company

How to draft the Executive Summary for an import/export company?

The Executive Summary is like an introduction to the business plan for your import/export company.

Don't surpass 2 pages; only include the necessary details.

When you show your business plan to a bank, this is the first part they will see. It needs to grab their attention and make them want to read the rest of the plan.

In the Executive Summary of your import/export company, provide answers to these questions: what types of products do you import/export through your company? who is your target market? who are your competitors in the industry? how do you differentiate from them? what is your budget?

How to do the market analysis for an import/export company?

Analyzing the market for your import/export company allows you to gain insights into factors such as global trade dynamics, competition within the import/export industry, and emerging trends in international commerce.

By conducting a comprehensive market analysis, an import/export company can identify international trade opportunities, establish strong supplier and client relationships, optimize pricing strategies, and execute targeted marketing campaigns, ultimately leading to increased trade volume, higher profitability, and a successful import/export business venture.

This is what we've outlined in the "Market Research" section of our business plan for an import/export company :

  • fresh and updated data and statistics about the import/export market, including trade volumes, top trading partners, and global trade trends
  • a list of potential market segments for an import/export company
  • the competitor study
  • the potential competitive advantages for an import/export company

business plan import/export company

The key points of the business plan for an import/export company

What's the business model of an import/export company, business model of an import/export company.

An import/export company's business model centers around facilitating the movement of goods or products between countries or markets. Revenue is generated through fees or commissions based on the value of imported/exported goods.

The business model focuses on global trade regulations and logistics, establishing relationships with international suppliers or buyers, ensuring efficient shipping and customs clearance, effective marketing to target importers/exporters, and building strong business relationships based on trust and reliable trade services.

Success depends on industry knowledge and connections, delivering timely and cost-effective import/export solutions, maintaining compliance with international trade regulations, fostering positive customer experiences and recommendations, and continuously adapting to changing global trade dynamics and market demands.

Business model vs Business plan

It's important to understand the distinction between "business plan" and "business model."

A business model is a framework that outlines how a company creates value, delivers products or services, and generates revenue.

In a business plan, you use a tool called the Business Model Canvas to outline how your business works.

And, of course, there is a Business Model Canvas (already completed) in our business plan for an import/export company .

How do you identify the market segments of an import/export company?

Market segmentation for your import/export company involves dividing your potential customers into different groups based on their import/export needs, target markets, and demographics.

These categories may include factors such as specific product categories, geographical regions, trading volumes, or customers seeking specific import/export services or expertise (e.g., customs clearance, logistics).

By segmenting your market, you can offer specialized import/export solutions and services that cater to each segment's specific requirements. For example, you might focus on specific product categories such as electronics, apparel, or food and provide import/export services and expertise within those categories, offer services targeting specific geographical regions or markets and facilitate trade between different countries or continents, specialize in import/export logistics and provide efficient supply chain solutions for businesses, or focus on specific import/export services or expertise such as customs clearance or trade compliance to meet the unique needs and preferences of each customer segment.

Market segmentation allows you to effectively target your marketing efforts, communicate your expertise in import/export operations, and provide reliable and smooth trade solutions that meet the unique needs and preferences of each customer segment.

In the business plan for an import/export company , you will find a detailed market segmentation that gives you insights into your potential customers.

How to conduct a competitor analysis for an import/export company?

It's clear that you won't be the only import/export company in the industry. There are other businesses facilitating the international trade of goods and products.

Conducting a comprehensive market study and analyzing your competitors' strengths and weaknesses are essential components of a well-rounded business plan.

Be aware of their weaknesses (such as inefficient logistics processes, limited market research, or poor supplier relationships).

Why is it important to address these aspects? Because these weaknesses can impact the success of import/export companies.

By focusing on these areas, you can ensure efficient logistics and customs clearance, establish strong international partnerships, and provide excellent customer service, positioning your company as a reliable and preferred choice for global trade solutions.

It's what we call competitive advantages—enhancing them will help your business excel.

Here are some examples of competitive advantages for an import/export company: extensive global network and trade connections, efficient logistics and supply chain management, expertise in international trade regulations, competitive pricing and terms, exceptional customer service and support.

How to draft a SWOT analysis for an international trading company?

A SWOT analysis can help identify potential opportunities and threats associated with starting an import/export company and inform decisions about how to best pursue success.

As you can guess, there is indeed a completed and editable SWOT matrix in our business plan for an import/export company

The strengths for an import/export company

S stands for Strengths in SWOT, representing the project's valuable strengths or advantages.

For an import/export company, potential strengths could include global connections, access to overseas markets, knowledge of international regulations, and an understanding of local cultures.

The weaknesses for an import/export company

The letter "W" signifies Weaknesses, which are the areas or aspects of the project that could be improved upon.

For an import/export company, potential weaknesses may include: limited product knowledge, lack of global market presence, lack of local contacts, and inadequate supply chain management.

The opportunities for an import/export company

O stands for Opportunities in SWOT, representing the external factors that can contribute to the project's success.

In the case of an import/export company, potential opportunities include importing goods from low-cost countries, exporting high-demand products to new markets, leveraging digital technology to optimize supply chains, and offering specialized services such as customs clearance and freight forwarding.

The threats for an import/export company

T represents Threats, which are the external factors or circumstances that can pose challenges or risks to the project.

How to outline a marketing strategy for an international trading company?

Including a marketing strategy in your business plan is important to attract customers and generate revenue.

An international trading company can gain clients by developing an effective marketing approach that highlights the company's global network, expertise in international trade, and ability to facilitate seamless import and export transactions.

Businesses won't trade with your international trading company without effective marketing; showcasing your global network, market expertise, and reliable sourcing capabilities is necessary.

Are you utilizing marketing tactics to promote your international trading company? Consider attending international trade shows or business expos, leveraging digital platforms to connect with potential clients or suppliers, and utilizing targeted advertising campaigns to reach businesses interested in global trade.

No need to worry if you're clueless about marketing and communication – it's not a big deal.

How to build financial projections for an international trading company?

A successful business plan must include detailed financial information, such as income and expense projections, cash flow statements, and a break-even analysis.

When creating your business plan, you must include anticipated revenue figures for your import/export company.

It is essential to have a revenue forecast that is both relevant and credible so that your business plan impresses banks or investors.

Our financial plan for an import/export company is easy to use and includes built-in checks to help you identify and correct any assumptions, ensuring you create reliable projections with confidence.

No doubt, you'll have to establish an initial budget for launching your import/export company. Don't overlook any expense. By the way, we've listed them all in our financial plan!

By conducting a break-even analysis, you can assess whether your import/export company will be profitable or not.

  • Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
  • Opens in a new window.
  • Credit cards
  • View all credit cards
  • Banking guide
  • Loans guide
  • Insurance guide
  • Personal finance
  • View all personal finance
  • Small business
  • View all small business
  • View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

How to Start an Import/Export Business in 6 Steps

Eric Goldschein

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

For nearly as long as there’s been people, there’s been trade. Imports and exports are how the potato came to Ireland, and in a more modern sense, it's how we’re able to buy food, drinks, furniture, clothes, and nearly everything else, from all around the world today.

Imports are any good or service brought in from one country to another, while exports are goods and services produced in the home country for sale to other markets. Thus, whether you’re importing or exporting a product (or both) depends on your orientation to the transaction.

import business business plan

The modern system of international trade is a complex web of import/export businesses that handle the sale, distribution, and delivery of goods from one nation to another. If you're interested in starting a business in this industry, know that there is more than one type of import/export business. You could focus just on importing or just on exporting. You could be a manufacturer’s representative, specializing in a certain industry, or you could be an import/export merchant or agent, which is more of a freelance broker.

Starting an import/export business

If you’re interested in starting an import/export business, there are a ton of considerations you need to make — just as you would for any business. For an import/export business, specifically, it’s helpful to have a background in business, international relations, or global finance. This should give you an understanding of the myriad hoops one must jump through to sell or buy a product from an overseas supplier.

“The compliances make it so complex that even if you did know how to do it, you’re still going to have to keep in mind a lot of random considerations,” says Selena Cuffe, co-founder of Heritage Link Brands, a company that imports, exports, and produces wine, and other high-end products like tea and honey.

Cuffe worked for years in brand management for Procter & Gamble, among other trade-related positions, before starting her company in 2005. She was inspired after going to South Africa, where she attended the first Soweto Wine Festival.

Heritage Link Brands now operates within the wine industry in different ways: It imports wine from South Africa into the U.S. wine market, and it exports grapes from its own South African vineyard to the U.S. as well as the Philippines and Hong Kong. It also exports wine to airlines for use on international flights.

Keep reading for the steps you need to take to start an import/export business, as well as tips from Cuffe.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

1. Get your business basics in order

Anyone starting a business in the 21st century needs to cover certain bases, like creating a website as well as social media channels like Facebook, Twitter, and a host of others.

So here's your first step: Get the basics in order. This means registering your business with the state in which your headquarters will be located, registering a domain name, getting any business licenses you need to legally operate, and so on.

You'll need a business plan, too. Part of that business plan needs to cover how to handle the rules and regulations of the markets you want to work in. For example, to bring alcohol and tobacco products into the U.S., you need an Alcohol and Tobacco Trade and Tax Bureau permit, which is free but can take months to acquire. Similar research needs to be done when doing business with other countries, taking into account everything from various legal back label requirements in each nation to insurance.

Perhaps most importantly, you need access to capital. Startup costs can vary greatly depending on the type of imports/exports business you start.

“The first thing I recommend for anyone is to have your capital upfront,” says Cuffe. “That’s so you can protect your business from not only a legal standpoint but also the equity of the brand that you create and to make sure you invest in the quality of whatever you launch. Test a market, or test a city, then a state, then a region. Then I think that there are greater chances for success and sustainability long term.”

The ratio that Cuffe cited for success in the wine industry — "In order to make $1 million, you need to invest $7 million” — demonstrates the kind of capital needed to start a business comfortably (if one can ever be “comfortable” as an entrepreneur) and be prepared for whatever occurs, from issues with sourcing to changes in trade regulations.

2. Pick a product to import or export

The next step in starting an import/export business is to find a product or industry you are passionate about and that you think could sell in international markets.

For Cuffe, that product turned out to be wine. She felt a connection to the product not just from a quality and taste standpoint but from a social justice standpoint as well.

“When I first entered the industry in 2005, there was just one Black winemaker and five Black-owned brands," she says. "Today there are 17 Black winemakers and 31 Black-owned brands.”

Though the South African wine industry still deals with injustices like poor working conditions and unequal access to capital, Cuffe says things have improved since the previous decade thanks to the increased sales and notoriety of South African wines worldwide.

“The biggest thing that we’ve enabled is the financing of Black businesses. When we first got started, in order for even these brands to create their own wine, they had to source it from existing white wineries, because they didn’t own any land,” Cuffe says.

Once you find your product, you also need to identify the right market for it. After all, you need someone to sell it to. This is where your trend-spotting skills come into play. The best products for an import/export business are products that are just starting to become popular, or show some promise to being so in the future.

You can conduct research with resources like GlobalEDGE’s Market Potential Index or by checking with local government officials and websites, such as the Department of Commerce International Trade Administration’s Data and Analysis. You can also find reports on the state of the imports/exports industry with the Census Bureau Foreign Trade .

From there, it’s best to start “slow and steady.”

“Test your ideas,” says Cuffe. “Don’t assume that what you think will sell because you love it will catch fire in the market. What catches fire in the market is more than just the way it tastes — it’s who you know, and the packaging and serendipity of timing, and all of the indirect soft stuff that makes the difference.”

3. Source your suppliers

Once you have a product you’d like to trade internationally, you need to find a local manufacturer or other producer that makes your product and can lead to a strong partnership. A good relationship with a supplier is crucial to long-running success in an imports/exports business.

Generally, you can find suppliers through companies like Alibaba, Global Sources, and Thomas Register. You will need to convince the supplier of the benefits of entering the U.S. market (or another market you wish to sell to), and figure out the logistics of taking their product from their local warehouse or production facility to another one, potentially on the other side of the globe.

You might also be your own supplier — in some cases, as Cuffe occasionally is for herself.

“We own an interest in a vineyard in South Africa called Silkbush ," she says. "My orientation when I do business to them is, 80% of the grapes that we pick we send off to domestic wineries who use our grapes to produce their own proprietary high-end wine. The remaining 20% is used to create our proprietary label Silkbush, which we export to foreign markets.”

4. Price your product

You know what product you want to work with and you've identified your target market. Next up, figuring out how much to charge.

Typically, the business model on an imports/exports business includes two key understandings: the volume of units sold, and the commission made on that volume.

Be sure to price your product such that your markup on the product (what ends up being your commission) doesn't exceed what a customer is willing to pay. But you don't want to make it too low such that you aren't ever going to make a profit.

In the imports/exports industry, importers and exporters typically take 10% to 15% markup above what the manufacturer charges you when you buy the raw product.

5. Find your customers

Next up on how to start an imports/exports business? Finding customers to sell to.

Deciding on a market is not the same as finding your customers. You can’t just send your products to the Port of New York and start selling your wares on the docks to whoever walks by. You usually need to find distributors and clients who will take on your product and sell to others.

If you have a quality website that includes digital marketing campaigns, your customers may end up finding you. But to get started, Cuffe suggests doing things the old-fashioned way — by cold-calling. Check with any local contacts you have in the area, contact the area's Chamber of Commerce, trade consulates, embassies, and so on. These entities might be able to give you a local contact list that could be a vital help in starting a imports/exports business.

“I cold-called the local Cambridge, Massachusetts, Whole Foods store, and they gave me a chance. And now we do display programs and regional programs with Whole Foods,” says Cuffe. “A lot of what I did in the beginning and even today involves cold calls.”

6. Get the logistics down

Perhaps the most complex aspect of importing and exporting is the logistics of taking a product created somewhere and selling it somewhere else. How does the product make the trip from the vineyard of South Africa to the wine glasses of drinkers in California, for example?

“When you are operating within a supply chain where your customer is different than your client, which is different than your consumer, it requires an extraordinary amount of coordination,” says Cuffe. “I use a freight forwarder that on my behalf reaches out to shipping lines, like Maersk.”

Hiring a global freight forwarder is generally a good idea for all imports/exports businesses, as they'll serve as a transport agent for moving cargo — saving you a lot of time and worry about getting your products from the factory to a warehouse. Essentially, you'll give them information about your business and your intentions for the product, and they'll arrange the shipping agreements, insurance, and oftentimes the licenses, permits, tariffs, and quotas of working within another country. This can remove a lot of the headache associated with starting an imports/exports business in an international trade market.

Frequently asked questions

Is an import/export business profitable.

Many import/export businesses are very profitable. To improve your company's chances of profitability, it's important to conduct the required research on your industry and have a well-documented business plan. Understanding all of the costs associated with an imports/exports business and determining your profit margins when pricing your products is also essential.

How do import/export companies make money?

As an import/export company, you'll make a profit by selling products at a higher rate than you paid for them from the vendor or source.

What is an export license?

An export license is a government-issued document authorizing your company to complete certain export transactions. An export license is issued by the appropriate agency once the export transaction has been reviewed.

What documents do I need to import goods?

The types of documents you'll need to import goods will vary depending on the country you're importing the product into. In the United States, import licenses and permits may be required, but a Customs and Border Protection entry form is always required.

ZenBusiness

Start Your Dream Business

The bottom line

The world of importing and exporting is a dazzling, complex system that balances both emotional and economic needs. If we want something that is grown or produced in another part of the world, how can we get our hands on it? How can we give others the opportunity to enjoy it, while still creating a sustainable lifestyle for those producing it and for those who transport it from point A to B?

If you’re interested in answering these questions, don’t let the enormity of the task overwhelm you. With the proper research, planning, and documentation, you can launch a successful imports/exports business of your own.

On a similar note...

One blue credit card on a flat surface with coins on both sides.

Growthink logo white

Import Export Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

import export business plan template

Import-Export Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their import-export businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through an import-export business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your import-export business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan

If you’re looking to start an import-export business, or grow your existing business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your import-export business in order to improve your chances of success. Your import-export business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Import-Export Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for an import-export business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the lender will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for social media marketing businesses.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for an import-export company.

If you want to start an import-export business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your import-export business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of import-export business you are operating and its status. For example, are you a startup, do you have an import-export business that you would like to grow, or are you operating import-export companies in multiple markets?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the import-export industry. Discuss the type of import-export business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target market. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of import-export business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of import-export companies:

  • Export management company – these types of businesses handle all the details (hiring distributors, handling logistics, creating marketing materials, etc) for companies wishing to export a product.
  • Export trading company – these types of businesses determine what products foreign buyers want, and then find domestic companies who make the product.
  • Import-export merchant (or free agent) – this type of business buys merchandise from a manufacturer, and resells that merchandise around the world.

In addition to explaining the type of import-export business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

  • When and why did you start the business?
  • What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the volume of products you have exported or imported, number of import-export contracts signed, etc.
  • Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the import-export industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the import-export industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your import-export business plan:

  • How big is the import-export industry (in dollars)?
  • Is the market declining or increasing?
  • Who are the key competitors in the market?
  • Who are the key suppliers in the market?
  • What trends are affecting the industry?
  • What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
  • What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your import-export business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your import-export business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of import-export business you operate. Clearly, individuals looking to purchase coffee beans online would respond to different marketing promotions than mobile phone manufacturers, for example.

Try to break out your target market in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most import-export companies primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

Finish Your Import Export Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other import-export companies.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes manufacturers with vertically integrated distribution operations, or consumers who prefer to purchase similar products made domestically.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other import-export companies with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be import-export businesses located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

  • What types of customers do they serve?
  • Do they specialize in specific products, or in imports from a specific country or region?
  • What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
  • What are they good at?
  • What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

  • Will you provide a wider variety of products or maintain distribution contracts with more manufacturers?
  • Will you offer extra services, such as brokerage?
  • Will you provide better customer service?
  • Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For an import-export business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of import-export company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to mobile phones, will your import-export business offer other consumer electronics such as laptops or wireless headphones?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location through which you will sell your imported/exported goods. For example, will you distribute your goods directly to consumers online, or will you maintain supply contracts with retailers and wholesalers? In this section, document each method by which you will sell your products.

Promotions : The final part of your import-export marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your business. The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

  • Advertising in trade papers and magazines
  • Direct contact with potential clients (cold calling)
  • Social media marketing
  • Exhibits at Trade Shows

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your import-export business, including determining which products are needed, sourcing product manufacturers, securing and maintaining all necessary licenses and permits, arranging logistics, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sign your 100 th supply contract, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your import-export business to a new market.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your import-export business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing import-export companies. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in logistics, or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you import from one country, or will you operate globally? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your import-export business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing an import-export business:

  • Warehouse build-out including fixtures, construction, etc.
  • Cost of buying or leasing the necessary transportation equipment (containers, cargo ship / airplane, etc.), or otherwise securing the means of transporting your goods
  • Payroll or salaries paid to staff
  • Business insurance
  • Taxes and permits
  • Legal expenses

business costs

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your warehouse lease, or contracts with manufacturers and distributors.  

Putting together a business plan for your import-export business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the import-export industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful import-export business.  

Import Export Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my import export business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Import Export Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of import export business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have an import export business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of import export businesses?

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Import Export business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consulting services can create your business plan for you.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Business Plan Template & Guide For Small Businesses

How to Start an Import Export Business

Embarking on an import-export business venture can open up a world of opportunities for entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the global market.  This exciting and profitable field allows you to connect with suppliers and buyers across borders, fostering international trade and expanding your business horizons.  In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps…

Have questions on formation, banking and taxes?

Schedule a FREE consultation with a formation and compliance expert today 📞

How to Start an Import Export Business

Embarking on an import-export business venture can open up a world of opportunities for entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the global market. 

This exciting and profitable field allows you to connect with suppliers and buyers across borders, fostering international trade and expanding your business horizons. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to launch your import-export business, from conducting market research and selecting a product to navigating regulations and building a reliable network. 

So if you’re ready, let’s dig into how to start an import-export business. 

Why Start an Import Export Business

The import-export industry thrives on the exchange of goods and services across international borders and accommodates companies of all sizes. 

Within this industry, there are various types of import-export businesses, each with distinct characteristics and needs. 

One of the main benefits of starting an import-export business is the accessibility to the global market. By distributing goods all across the world, the potential for profitability and growth can be exponential. 

However, this market can be over-saturated and highly competitive. Not to mention, some countries still struggle with combating drug-related violence in this field. 

As an entrepreneur, you should carefully weigh the benefits and challenges of the import-export business to decide which best suits your goals.

Types of Import Export Businesses

The import-export industry has experienced a significant surge in demand as globalization continues to break down international trade barriers. 

As a result, businesses of all sizes are taking advantage of this opportunity to expand their reach and profits by trading goods and services across borders. 

Here are the main types of import-export services.

Import Export Merchants

Import-export merchants are businesses that buy and sell goods internationally, acting as intermediaries between buyers and sellers in different countries. 

As middlemen, import-export merchants purchase products from manufacturers or suppliers in one country and then sell them to buyers or distributors in another country for a profit. 

They are not involved in the production of goods but rather focus on facilitating transactions between parties located in different parts of the world. 

Export Trading Company (ETC)

An export trading company (ETC) is a type of import-export business that specializes in exporting goods and services from one country to another. 

ETCs work with domestic manufacturers to help them find foreign buyers and sell their products in international markets. 

In addition to acting as intermediaries between buyers and sellers, ETCs often provide other services such as market research, financing, and logistics support to facilitate the export process. 

Export Management Company (EMC)

An export management company (EMC) assists domestic manufacturers in exporting their products to foreign markets. 

EMCs work as agents on behalf of the manufacturers and are responsible for overseeing the entire export process — including marketing, distribution, logistics, and payment collection. 

They typically specialize in one or more industries, such as agriculture, electronics, or textiles, and have extensive knowledge of the international market for those products. 

11 Steps to Starting an Import Export Business

An import-export business can offer entrepreneurs a fulfilling opportunity to extend their reach and enhance profits by exchanging products and services globally. 

To launch a prosperous import-export enterprise, meticulous planning and implementation are essential. 

In the following sections, we present 11 critical steps entrepreneurs must undertake when initiating an import-export venture.

Adhering to these steps will enable entrepreneurs to create a robust groundwork for a flourishing import-export business.

1. Identify the Goods You Want to Import/Export

Initiating an import-export business begins with pinpointing the products or services you plan to exchange. 

This entails investigating various goods and sectors to identify those with high demand in global markets and assessing their viability for import or export. 

Crucial factors to consider include market trends, regulations, tariffs, shipping expenses, and competitors when choosing a product for import or export. 

It’s also vital to recognize potential suppliers and buyers for your selected product to confirm the existence of a feasible market. 

2. Source Suppliers

After determining the goods or services to import or export, the next step is to find suppliers capable of providing the products. 

This process involves researching and locating potential suppliers in the country or countries where the products originate. 

Utilize online directories, trade shows, and industry associations to discover suppliers — and assess them based on factors like quality, dependability, and pricing. 

Fostering a strong relationship with your suppliers is vital to ensure receiving high-quality products and punctual deliveries. 

3. Explore Shipping Options

The third step in starting an import-export business is to explore shipping options. You can choose from various shipping options such as air, sea, or land transport.

Your choice will also depend on the nature of the products, the distance between the two countries, and your budget. It’s additionally important to consider factors such as the cost and efficiency of your operations. 

4. Develop a Business Plan

Creating a business plan is vital when starting an import-export venture. 

This comprehensive document outlines the business’s objectives, strategies, and financial projections — serving as a roadmap while highlighting potential challenges and opportunities.

Moreover, a well-crafted plan can assist in securing financing, attracting investors, and conveying the vision to potential partners and staff. 

Below are the key points for crafting a business plan. 

Target Customers

You can’t have a business without a loyal customer base. Here are some steps to identify your potential customers:

  • Analyze market trends to determine which products are in demand and identify potential customers
  • Research your competition and identify their target markets
  • Study demographics, such as age, gender, income, and lifestyle, to understand the needs and preferences of potential customers
  • Conduct surveys and focus groups to gather feedback from potential customers
  • Use social media platforms to reach out to potential customers and gather data on their interests and preferences 

Overall, understanding the target market is essential to developing effective marketing strategies and ensuring the success of your import-export business.

Projected Costs

Starting an import-export business involves various costs, including one-time expenses and ongoing operational costs. Here are some possible costs to consider when projecting the total cost of starting an import-export business:

  • Initial expenses such as business registration, permits, and licensing fees
  • Costs related to sourcing suppliers and negotiating contracts, such as travel expenses and legal fees
  • Shipping and logistics costs, such as transportation fees, insurance, and customs duties
  • Operational costs such as office rent, marketing expenses, and hiring employees
  • Miscellaneous expenses such as website development, software subscriptions, and equipment purchases 

Logistics and Distribution

Logistics and distribution are critical components of the import-export business, as they ensure the timely and efficient delivery of products to customers. 

This process involves managing the flow of goods from supplier to buyer, including transportation, warehousing, and inventory management. Import-export companies must have a reliable logistics and distribution network to ensure their products are delivered on time and in good condition. 

Through effective logistics and distribution management, import and export companies can build a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction, which is essential for long-term success in this industry.

Pricing Model

Import-export businesses must consider various factors when developing a pricing model, including the cost of production, transportation, customs duties, and taxes. 

It’s important to determine a fair and competitive price that considers the value of the product, the target market, and the competition. 

Many import-export businesses use a cost-plus pricing model, which adds a markup to the cost of the product to determine the selling price. 

Others may use a value-based pricing model, which considers the perceived value of the product to the customer. 

Name of Business

Choosing a unique name for your import-export business can help establish your brand identity and gain recognition in the marketplace. 

A business name should be memorable, easy to pronounce, and reflective of your products or services. 

It should also be distinguishable from other businesses in the same industry to avoid confusion and legal issues. 

A unique and memorable business name can help you establish a strong online presence and build your brand equity. 

5. Choose Your Business Structure

In this step, we’ll review the main types of business structures. The structure you choose will determine the legal and financial obligations of your business, as well as your tax liabilities and personal assets. 

By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each structure and choosing the right one for your business, you can ensure that you comply with legal and tax requirements. 

Sole Proprietorship 

A sole proprietorship is a simple business structure with an individual owning and operating it.

Advantages: Easy setup and maintenance, full control, flexibility, and retaining all profits. 

Disadvantages: Unlimited personal liability, raising capital can be difficult, termination upon the owner’s retirement or death, and limited credibility. 

A suitable option for entrepreneurs who want full control and have limited personal assets at risk.

General Partnership 

A general partnership involves two or more people owning and operating a business. 

Advantages: Simple setup, shared decision-making, pooled resources, and tax benefits. 

Disadvantages: Unlimited personal liability, potential disputes, joint liability for partner actions, and limited capital raising opportunities. 

It’s an ideal option for entrepreneurs wanting shared responsibilities but requires trust and communication among partners.

Limited Partnership

A limited partnership consists of at least one general partner and one limited partner. A limited partner is typically the main investor of the business with minimal management. The general partner is more hands-on with the business and oversees the company’s operations. 

Advantages: Limited liability for limited partners, management flexibility, and the ability to raise capital without giving up control. 

Disadvantages: Unlimited liability for general partners, potential disputes, complex legal requirements, and limited capital raising opportunities compared to other structures. 

This option is suitable for entrepreneurs seeking investors while retaining control.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

 An LLC combines partnership flexibility with corporation liability protection. 

Advantages: Limited personal liability, management flexibility, pass-through taxation, and fewer regulatory requirements. 

Disadvantages: Complexity in setup and maintenance, limited capital raising opportunities, potential personal liability limitations, and higher operating costs. 

An LLC is ideal for entrepreneurs wanting flexibility and limited liability protection but may not suit businesses needing significant capital or facing high legal risks.

Corporation

A corporation is a separate legal entity owned by shareholders. 

Advantages: Limited personal liability, easier capital access, perpetual existence, and potential tax benefits. 

Disadvantages: Complexity, regulatory requirements, higher operational costs, and double taxation. 

A corporation is suitable for entrepreneurs seeking capital and liability protection but may not be ideal for small or medium-sized businesses due to costs and regulatory requirements.

If you still have questions or feel unsure about which business structure is best for you — check out our one-stop shop for business formation here. 

6. Register Your Business

After deciding on a business structure and name, you must register your import-export business to establish its legal existence. 

The registration process varies by location and type of business but generally involves obtaining any necessary permits and licenses. 

This process may also include applying for an  Employer Identification Number (EIN) and meeting other legal and regulatory requirements. 

Registering your business can protect your brand, build credibility with customers and suppliers, and ensure they comply with legal and tax obligations.

7. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

Similar to registering your business, obtaining any necessary licenses and permits is a mandatory requirement to ensure legal compliance for your company.

Here are some of the main licenses and permits you may need for an import-export business:

  • Business License: A general business license is often required to operate a business legally in your country or jurisdiction.
  • Import-Export License: This license is typically required to import and export goods across international borders. It may be known as an Importer Number, Exporter Identification Number, or similar.
  • Product-Specific Permits: Certain products, such as agricultural goods, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and controlled substances, may require additional permits or licenses from the relevant government agencies.
  • Health and Safety Permits: These may be required for specific goods, such as food, beverages, or medical devices, to ensure they comply with health and safety regulations.
  • Quarantine Permits: Importing plants, animals, or certain food products may require a quarantine permit to ensure they meet the importing country’s biosecurity standards.
  • Certificate of Origin: Some countries require a Certificate of Origin to verify the country where the goods were manufactured or produced.
  • Freight Forwarder License: If you work with a freight forwarder, they may need a license to operate in your country.

It’s important to note that the process for obtaining licenses and permits can vary depending on the location and type of business.

You can learn more about the regulations of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) here .

8. Secure Financing

Securing financing is a critical step in starting an import-export business, as it requires significant capital investment to cover expenses such as purchasing inventory, shipping products, and marketing the business. 

You can explore various financing options to meet your business needs, including:

  • Business loans
  • SBA loans and grants
  • Venture capital funding
  • Crowdfunding 
  • Peer-to-peer lending 
  • Personal savings

Each financing option has its benefits and costs, and it’s important for you to responsibly consider their options and create a solid business plan to present to potential investors or lenders. 

9. Open a Business Bank Account

Having a separate account can help you keep track of your business expenses and revenue stream — making it easier for accounting and tax purposes.

It also presents a more professional image to customers and suppliers — and protects personal assets in case your business incurs debt or faces a lawsuit. 

To open a business bank account, you typically need to provide documentation such as business licenses, articles of organization, and identification.

You may also need to deposit an initial amount of money and compare different bank options to find the best account for your business needs.

10. Get Business Insurance

Securing business insurance is vital for safeguarding an import-export business against unforeseen incidents that might interrupt operations or result in financial losses. 

To obtain business insurance, entrepreneurs should investigate and compare policies from various providers, taking into account aspects like coverage choices, deductibles, and premiums. 

Carefully examining the policy and understanding the inclusions and exclusions is crucial, as is consulting with legal and financial professionals to guarantee that the business is sufficiently protected.

11. Market Your Business

In the last step, we will go over how you can market your business to attract potential clients and keep your business thriving.

Here are some ways to effectively market your import-export business:

  • Create a website and social media accounts to establish an online presence and connect with potential customers
  • Join social media groups related to your industry to network and stay informed about industry trends and news
  • Reach out to industry associations to learn about events, resources, and opportunities to connect with potential customers
  • Attend trade shows and webinars to showcase your products or services and meet potential customers or partners
  • Connect with current and potential customers through email marketing, newsletters, and other outreach efforts
  • Consider paid advertisements such as Google or Facebook Ads 

Marketing is an ongoing process, and it’s important to regularly review and adjust your marketing strategies to effectively reach your target audience. 

By marketing your import-export business, you can increase brand awareness, build relationships with your customers, and ultimately increase your sales and income.

Making a Profit From Shipping Goods Coast to Coast

Starting an import-export business can be a challenging but rewarding journey. 

From identifying the goods you want to ship to marketing your business — each step requires careful planning and execution. 

One crucial aspect of running a successful import-export business is managing your finances effectively. 

That’s where doola bookkeeping comes in. Our team of experienced bookkeepers can help you stay on top of your finances, from managing your accounts to preparing your taxes. 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your import-export business thrive.

How much does it cost to start an import-export business?

Entrepreneurs should be prepared to invest a minimum of $5,000 to $20,000 for initial setup and operational expenses. Subject to change based on location and size of operation. 

Is the import-export business profitable?

The import-export business can be profitable for entrepreneurs who effectively manage their operations and navigate international markets.

How much is an import-export license?

In the United States, the cost of a basic export license through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) is free, while other specialized licenses and permits may have additional fees.

Genki Hirano

Free e-book

How to form a US LLC in 5 minutes

A beginner-friendly guide on the basics of LLCs. Learn about formation, banking, and taxes.

  • LLC vs. C Corporation: The Ultimate Guide for Your Business
  • Best State to Form My LLC In
  • Wyoming vs. Delaware LLC
  • LLC Fees by State

Popular Posts

  • How to Open an LLC for Non-US Residents (8 Easy Steps)
  • How to Create a US PayPal Account – International Founder Guide
  • How To Create a US Stripe Account – International Founder Guide
  • LLC vs C Corporation: The Ultimate Guide For Your Business
  • How to Get a Tax ID Number

Keep reading

import business business plan

Get started with doola and launch your US business

Turn your dream idea into your dream US business, today.

import business business plan

A beginner-friendly guide on the basics of LLCs. Learn about formation, banking, and taxes. Get ready to turn your dream idea into your dream US business.

Cookie

Cookie consent

By continuing to browse this website, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Learn more.

import business business plan

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

BorderBuddy

Orders Without Borders

  • PARS Tracker
  • Importing into Canada
  • Exporting from Canada
  • Customs Brokerage
  • Customs Clearance
  • Import a Car
  • Customs for E-Commerce

Home » How to Write a Business Plan for Your Import-Export Business

How to Write a Business Plan for Your Import-Export Business

import business business plan

January 20, 2021

The world is more interconnected than it’s ever been. This provides a perfect opportunity for you to create your own import-export business. Whether it’s importing beautiful textiles from another continent or exporting local Canadian products abroad, all you need is passion and drive to get started.

You probably have plenty of ideas swirling around in your head, but the only way to make your business a reality and ensure your success is to write a winning business plan. Business plans are notoriously long and complex but don’t be disheartened. Here are 6 steps to writing the perfect business plan for your import-export company:

1. Start with an Executive Summary.

Think of this as the ultimate introduction to your business. It should concisely delineate exactly what you want as a business owner. Remember, you need to know where your business is going. It’s up to you to clarify your vision. No one is going to be as passionate about your import-export storefront as you are.

Your executive summary should have:

  • Your business concept : what you’ll sell, who will purchase it, and why your business will work
  • Financial points : your sales, profits, cash flows, and ROI
  • Required finances : what capital is needed and how it will be used
  • Current business state : a short history of your business including key members of staff
  • Achievements : may include test marketing, facility locations, important contracts, etc.

Keep it short and sweet. Ideally, your executive summary will be no more than half a page. The rest of your business plan is where you’ll go into greater detail about these components.

It might be helpful to go through How to Start an Import Export Business before you create your executive summary to ensure everything is carefully thought out before you present it in your business plan.

import business business plan

2. Include a Business Description.

This is your opportunity to describe exactly what you’re importing or exporting and how it will succeed. Are you importing Congolese avocados? Show how you can guarantee perfect ripeness when they reach stores. Are you exporting blenders to Bolivia? Demonstrate you’ve found the perfect blender to suit the demand of that market.

Here are some questions to consider and incorporate:

  • How does the industry look now and how might it change in the future?
  • Is your business brand new or already established?
  • What kind of business is it (e.g. partnership, corporation)?
  • What are the ins and outs of the distribution of your product?
  • How is your business better than your competitors?
  • What exactly makes your business profitable?

Don’t forget insurance. Investors and lenders need to see you’re responsible and won’t lose money from major oversights. You might think skipping product insurance will help you make more money, but this is a huge mistake in the long run. Find a premium insurance company and include that information in your business description.

3. Conduct a Market Analysis.

Roll up your sleeves—this part takes a lot of effort. If you put the work in and do  the research, it will pay off. The point of your market analysis is to demonstrate your knowledge of the market and your ability to claim a significant share of it. 

A great market analysis can look like this:

  • Define the market : talk about size, trends, rules and regulations, prospective growth areas, and sales potential
  • Nail down the total feasible market : specifically address the portion of the market your business can realistically capture
  • Estimate market share : take into consideration industry growth and your product’s life cycle
  • Determine pricing : discuss your reasons for pricing and how you will cover costs
  • Explain your promotion strategy : this includes advertising, packaging, PR, etc.

Factor in exchange rates. As you’re figuring out your price, be sure to include  exchange rates in your calculations. Neglecting this could sink your business. You might want to consider using the local currency of the country you’re working with, especially if they use an international currency such as euros or US dollars. Are you planning on exporting to the EU? Don’t miss this helpful guide .

import business business plan

4. Summarize a Competitive Analysis.

Not quite the same as your market analysis, your competitive analysis focuses mainly on the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors. Planning to import Italian cars? Put yourself in your buyer’s shoes. What options do they have for purchasing an Italian car? What are the strengths and weaknesses of each option?

After you make a list of all your potential competitors, you’ll want to organize all the information in a competitive strength grid, which outlines which competitors are strong in each skill category and which ones are weak (e.g. price, product quality).

Lastly, you’ll need to clearly define your competitive advantage. Do you have a  lower price point? Are your cars of better quality? Do you have a more solid advertising plan? Can you break into a new market? 

Your price equates to your product’s value. If you price your product too far below your competitors, it may cheapen your product in the eyes of consumers. There’s nothing wrong with trying to outpace your competitors in pricing, but make sure you don’t overdo it and cause your customers to overlook your product due to a lower perceived quality.

5. Create a Design & Development Plan.

This is where you focus on details, details, details. How are you going to make your business a reality? Now is your opportunity to get it all on paper.

Here are some questions to answer in this section:

  • What are your goals for product development?
  • Which procedures will you have in place for product review, marketing, and distribution?
  • What is your exact production schedule?
  • What’s in your detailed development budget?
  • How many employees need to be recruited and in what areas?
  • What possible risks are apparent?
  • How will your business function on a continuing basis?
  • What is the organizational structure of your business?

If you’ve left any of these questions unanswered, you’ll need to add more details.

Don’t go it alone. You might prefer to do everything on your own, but that will only leave you overworked and exhausted. There are so many specifics in the import-export world that you can easily get overwhelmed. Do yourself a favor and hire a team to help.

Are you planning on selling your product on Amazon? Check out these useful logistical tips .

import business business plan

6. Don’t Forget the Financial Data.

When it comes down to it, this is what investors really want to see. This is how  they’ll determine whether your business – anything from exporting dresses to importing sailboats – will succeed or not.

You’ll need to include three statements in the financial section:

  • Income statement : a simple report on monthly sales and expenses
  • Cash flow statement : a schedule of what money is needed and where it will come from
  • Balance sheet : a summary of your business’s assets, liabilities, and equity

Let your words be few. You should include a short analysis statement after the income statement, but resist the temptation to ramble. The idea is to let the financial statements in this portion speak for themselves.

Once you’ve finished your business plan, send it out to investors and lenders you’ve already established a connection with. Make big asks—you never know who might say yes! With an excellent import export business plan at your disposal, you’re well on your way to becoming a successful business owner.

BorderBuddy creates importing and exporting solutions for any size of business. We specialize in smoothing the process for you—handling the paperwork and logistics so you can focus on growing your company. We love supporting small businesses and are proud of the success stories we’ve been a part of. Give us a call and let us help you create a unique and sustainable import-export business today.

Importing and Exporting in a COVID-19 World:

Smart Ways to Ensure Compliance, Prevent Contamination, and Save Money in the Process

DOWNLOAD FREE EBOOK

  • Import/Export
  • Testimonials
  • © 2023 BorderBuddy, All Rights Reserved |
  • Legal Terms
  • Who Designed This Website?

How to write a business plan for an import-export company?

import-export company business plan

Creating a business plan for an import-export company is an essential process for any entrepreneur. It serves as a roadmap that outlines the necessary steps to be taken to start or grow the business, the resources required, and the anticipated financial outcomes. It should be crafted with method and confidence.

This guide is designed to provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary for creating an import-export company business plan, covering why it is so important both when starting up and running an established business, what should be included in your plan, how it should be structured, what tools should be used to save time and avoid errors, and other helpful tips.

We have a lot to cover, so let's get to it!

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for an import-export company?

  • What information is needed to create a business plan for an import-export company?
  • What goes in the financial forecast for an import-export company?
  • What goes in the written part of an import-export company business plan?
  • What tool can I use to write my import-export company business plan?

Understanding the document's scope and goals will help you easily grasp its structure and content. Before diving into the specifics of the plan, let's take a moment to explore the key reasons why having an import-export company business plan is so crucial.

To have a clear roadmap to grow the business

It's rarely business as usual for small businesses. The economy follows cycles where years of growth are followed by recessions, and the business environment is always changing with new technologies, new regulations, new competitors, and new consumer behaviours appearing all the time...

In this context, running a business without a clear roadmap is like driving blindfolded: it's dangerous at best. That's why writing a business plan for an import-export company is essential to create successful and sustainable businesses.

To write an effective business plan, you will need to take stock of where you are (if you are already in business) and where you want the business to go in the next three to five years.

Once you know where you want your import-export company to be, you'll have to identify:

  • what resources (human, equipment, and capital) are needed to get there,
  • at what pace the business needs to progress to get there in time,
  • and what risks you'll face along the way.

Going through this process regularly is beneficial, both for startups and existing companies, as it helps make informed decisions about how best to allocate resources to ensure the long-term success of the business.

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

The Business Plan Shop's Business Plan Software

To get visibility on future cash flows

If your small import-export company runs out of cash: it's game over. That's why we often say "cash is king", and it's crucial to have a clear view of your import-export company's future cash flows.

So, how can you achieve this? It's simple - you need to have an up-to-date financial forecast.

The good news is that your import-export company business plan already includes a financial forecast (which we'll discuss further in this guide). Your task is to ensure it stays current.

To accomplish this, it's essential to regularly compare your actual financial performance with what was planned in your financial forecast. Based on your business's current trajectory, you can make adjustments to the forecast.

By diligently monitoring your import-export company's financial health, you'll be able to spot potential financial issues, like unexpected cash shortfalls, early on and take corrective actions. Moreover, this practice will enable you to recognize and capitalize on growth opportunities, such as excess cash flow enabling you to expand to new locations.

To secure financing

A detailed business plan becomes a crucial tool when seeking financing from banks or investors for your import-export company.

Investing and lending to small businesses are very risky activities given how fragile they are. Therefore, financiers have to take extra precautions before putting their capital at risk.

At a minimum, financiers will want to ensure that you have a clear roadmap and a solid understanding of your future cash flows (like we just explained above). But they will also want to ensure that your business plan fits the risk/reward profile they seek.

This will off-course vary from bank to bank and investor to investor, but as a rule of thumb. Banks will want to see a conservative financial management style (low risk), and they will use the information in your business plan to assess your borrowing capacity — the level of debt they think your business can comfortably handle — and your ability to repay the loan. This evaluation will determine whether they'll provide credit to your import-export company and the terms of the agreement.

Whereas investors will carefully analyze your business plan to gauge the potential return on their investment. Their focus lies on evidence indicating your import-export company's potential for high growth, profitability, and consistent cash flow generation over time.

Now that you recognize the importance of creating a business plan for your import-export company, let's explore what information is required to create a compelling plan.

Need inspiration for your business plan?

The Business Plan Shop has dozens of business plan templates that you can use to get a clear idea of what a complete business plan looks like.

The Business Plan Shop's Business Plan Templates

Information needed to create a business plan for an import-export company

Drafting an import-export company business plan requires research so that you can project sales, investments and cost accurately in your financial forecast, and convince the reader that there is a viable commercial opportunity to be seized.

Below, we'll focus on three critical pieces of information you should gather before starting to write your plan.

Carrying out market research for an import-export company

Before you begin writing your business plan for an import-export company, conducting market research is a critical step in ensuring precise and realistic financial projections.

Market research grants you valuable insights into your target customer base, competitors, pricing strategies, and other crucial factors that can impact the success of your business.

In the course of this research, you may stumble upon trends that could impact your import-export company.

Your market research might reveal that your import-export company could experience increased demand for certain products, due to changing consumer preferences. Additionally, it might reveal that customers may increasingly prefer online purchasing, so your company could benefit from investing in e-commerce capabilities.

Such market trends play a pivotal role in revenue forecasting, as they provide essential data regarding potential customers' spending habits and preferences.

By integrating these findings into your financial projections, you can provide investors with more accurate information, enabling them to make well-informed decisions about investing in your import-export company.

Developing the marketing plan for an import-export company

Before delving into your import-export company business plan, it's imperative to budget for sales and marketing expenses.

To achieve this, a comprehensive sales and marketing plan is essential. This plan should provide an accurate projection of the necessary actions to acquire and retain customers.

Additionally, it will outline the required workforce to carry out these initiatives and the corresponding budget for promotions, advertising, and other marketing endeavours.

By budgeting accordingly, you can ensure that the right resources are allocated to these vital activities, aligning them with the sales and growth objectives outlined in your business plan.

The staffing and capital expenditure requirements of an import-export company

Whether you are starting or expanding an import-export company, it is important to have a clear plan for recruitment and capital expenditures (investment in equipment and real estate) in order to ensure the success of the business.

Both the recruitment and investment plans need to be coherent with the timing and level of growth planned in your forecast, and require appropriate funding.

The staffing costs for an import-export company might include wages for employees, such as sales representatives, administrative staff, and customer service personnel. The company may also need to pay for any necessary training or certifications for employees. Equipment costs may include computers, phones, and other office equipment, as well as vehicles for transporting goods. Additionally, the company may need to purchase software to help manage their operations, or specialized equipment for handling or storing goods.

In order to create a realistic financial forecast, you will also need to consider the other operating expenses associated with running the business on a day-to-day basis (insurance, bookkeeping, etc.). 

Once you have all the necessary information to create a business plan for your import-export company, it is time to start creating your financial forecast.

Need a solid financial forecast?

The Business Plan Shop does the maths for you. Simply enter your revenues, costs and investments. Click save and our online tool builds a three-way forecast for you instantly.

Screenshot from The Business Plan Shop's Financial Forecasting Software

What goes into your import-export company's financial forecast?

The financial forecast of your import-export company will enable you to assess the profitability potential of your business in the coming years and how much capital is required to fund the actions planned in the business plan.

The four key outputs of a financial forecast for a import-export company are:

  • The profit and loss (P&L) statement ,
  • The projected balance sheet ,
  • The cash flow forecast ,
  • And the sources and uses table .

Let's take a closer look at each of these.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement for an import-export company shows how much revenue and profit your business is expected to make in the future.

example of projected profit and loss statement in a import-export company business plan

A healthy import-export company's P&L statement should show:

  • Sales growing at (minimum) or above (better) inflation
  • Stable (minimum) or expanding (better) profit margins
  • A healthy level of net profitability

This will of course depend on the stage of your business: numbers for a startup will look different than for an established import-export company.

The forecasted balance sheet of your import-export company

The projected balance sheet of your import-export company will enable the reader of your business plan to assess the overall financial health of your business.

It shows three elements: assets, liabilities and equity:

  • Assets: are productive resources owned by the business, such as equipment, cash, and accounts receivable (money owed by clients).
  • Liabilities: are debts owed to creditors, lenders, and other entities, such as accounts payable (money owed to suppliers).
  • Equity: includes the sums invested by the shareholders or business owners and the profits and losses accumulated by the business to date (which are called retained earnings). It is a proxy for the value of the owner's stake in the business.

projected balance sheet in a import-export company business plan example

Analysing your import-export company projected balance sheet provides an understanding of your import-export company's working capital structure, investment and financing policies.

In particular, the readers of your plan can compare the level of financial debt on the balance sheet to the equity value to measure the level of financial risk (equity doesn't need to be reimbursed, while financial debt must be repaid, making it riskier).

They can also use your balance sheet to assess your import-export company's liquidity and solvency:

  • A liquidity analysis: focuses on whether or not your business has sufficient cash and short-term assets to cover its liabilities due in the next 12 months.
  • A solvency analysis: takes and longer view to assess whether or not your business has the capacity to repay its debts over the medium-term.

The projected cash flow statement

A cash flow forecast for an import-export company shows how much cash the business is projected to generate or consume.

example of cash flow forecast in a import-export company business plan

The cash flow statement is divided into 3 main areas:

  • The operating cash flow shows how much cash is generated or consumed by the operations (running the business)
  • The investing cash flow shows how much cash is being invested in capital expenditure (equipment, real estate, etc.)
  • The financing cash flow shows how much cash is raised or distributed to investors and lenders

Looking at the cash flow forecast helps you to ensure that your business has enough cash to keep running, and can help you anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

It is also a best practice to include a monthly cash flow statement in the appendices of your import-export company business plan so that the readers can view the impact of seasonality on your business cash position and generation.

The initial financing plan

The initial financing plan, also known as a sources and uses table, is a valuable resource to have in your business plan when starting your import-export company as it reveals the origins of the money needed to establish the business (sources) and how it will be allocated (uses).

import-export company business plan: sources & uses example

Having this table helps show what costs are involved in setting up your import-export company, how risks are shared between founders, investors and lenders, and what the starting cash position will be. This cash position needs to be sufficient to sustain operations until the business reaches a break-even point.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what goes into the financial forecast of your import-export company business plan, let's shift our focus to the written part of the plan.

The written part of an import-export company business plan

The written part of an import-export company business plan plays a key role: it lays out the plan of action you intend to execute to seize the commercial opportunity you've identified on the market and provides the context needed for the reader to decide if they believe your plan to be achievable and your financial forecast to be realistic.

The written part of an import-export company business plan is composed of 7 main sections:

  • The executive summary
  • The presentation of the company
  • The products and services
  • The market analysis
  • The strategy
  • The operations
  • The financial plan

Let's go through the content of each section in more detail!

1. The executive summary

In your import-export company's business plan, the first section is the executive summary — a captivating overview of your plan that aims to pique the reader's interest and leave them eager to learn more about your business.

When crafting the executive summary, start with an introduction to your business, including its name, concept, location, how long it has been running, and what sets it apart. Briefly mention the products and services you plan to offer and your target customer profile.

Following that, provide an overview of the addressable market for your import-export company, current trends, and potential growth opportunities.

Next, include a summary of key financial figures like projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

Finally, in the "ask" section, detail any funding requirements you may have.

2. The presentation of the company

As you build your import-export company business plan, the second section deserves attention as it delves into the structure and ownership, location, and management team of your company.

In the structure and ownership part, you'll provide valuable insights into the legal structure of the business, the identities of the owners, and their respective investments and ownership stakes. This level of transparency is vital, particularly if you're seeking financing, as it clarifies which legal entity will receive the funds and who holds the reins of the business.

Moving to the location part, you'll offer a comprehensive view of the company's premises and articulate why this specific location is strategic for the business, emphasizing factors like catchment area, accessibility, and nearby amenities.

When describing the location of your import-export company, you could emphasize its strategic proximity to many ports, which could provide easy access to international markets. You may also note its access to a skilled labor force in the region, as well as its potential for growth due to the large population in the area. Moreover, you could point out the potential for connecting with other businesses in the area that could be beneficial to your company. All of these factors could make your import-export company an attractive option for a third party financier.

Lastly, you should introduce your esteemed management team. Provide a thorough explanation of each member's role, background, and extensive experience.

It's equally important to highlight any past successes the management team has achieved and underscore the duration they've been working together. This information will instil trust in potential lenders or investors, showcasing the strength and expertise of your leadership team and their ability to deliver the business plan.

3. The products and services section

The products and services section of your import-export company business plan should include a detailed description of what your company sells to its customers. 

For example, your import-export company might offer sourcing services to its customers, helping them to find and purchase products from other countries. It could also provide freight forwarding and customs clearance help to get goods safely to their destination. Finally, it could also offer consulting services to help customers navigate international trade regulations and export laws.

The reader will want to understand what makes your import-export company unique from other businesses in this competitive market.

When drafting this section, you should be precise about the categories of products or services you sell, the clients you are targeting and the channels that you are targeting them through. 

import export company business plan: products and services section

4. The market analysis

When outlining your market analysis in the import-export company business plan, it's essential to include comprehensive details about customers' demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers to entry, and relevant regulations.

The primary aim of this section is to give the reader an understanding of the market size and appeal while demonstrating your expertise in the industry.

To begin, delve into the demographics and segmentation subsection, providing an overview of the addressable market for your import-export company, key marketplace trends, and introducing various customer segments and their preferences in terms of purchasing habits and budgets.

Next, shift your focus to the target market subsection, where you can zoom in on the specific customer segments your import-export company targets. Explain how your products and services are tailored to meet the unique needs of these customers.

For example, your target market might include small businesses that are looking to expand their product portfolio. These businesses are typically looking for cost-effective solutions for sourcing and importing products from abroad. They may be looking for help navigating international regulations and standards, and often require assistance with logistics and shipping.

In the competition subsection, introduce your main competitors and explain what sets your import-export company apart from them.

Finally, round off your market analysis by providing an overview of the main regulations that apply to your import-export company.

5. The strategy section

When writing the strategy section of a business plan for your import-export company, it is essential to include information about your competitive edge, pricing strategy, sales & marketing plan, milestones, and risks and mitigants.

The competitive edge subsection should explain what sets your company apart from its competitors. This part is especially key if you are writing the business plan of a startup, as you have to make a name for yourself in the marketplace against established players.

The pricing strategy subsection should demonstrate how you intend to remain profitable while still offering competitive prices to your customers.

The sales & marketing plan should outline how you intend to reach out and acquire new customers, as well as retain existing ones with loyalty programs or special offers. 

The milestones subsection should outline what your company has achieved to date, and its main objectives for the years to come - along with dates so that everyone involved has clear expectations of when progress can be expected.

The risks and mitigants subsection should list the main risks that jeopardize the execution of your plan and explain what measures you have taken to minimize these. This is essential in order for investors or lenders to feel secure in investing in your venture.

Your import-export company may face a variety of risks. For example, the company could experience a sudden change in currency exchange rates, which could significantly affect the profitability of the business. Additionally, the company might experience delays in shipping times due to unexpected weather or other logistical issues, which could lead to customer dissatisfaction. It is important to be aware of these potential risks and to have strategies in place to mitigate them.

6. The operations section

The operations of your import-export company must be presented in detail in your business plan.

The first thing you should cover in this section is your staffing team, the main roles, and the overall recruitment plan to support the growth expected in your business plan. You should also outline the qualifications and experience necessary to fulfil each role, and how you intend to recruit (using job boards, referrals, or headhunters).

You should then state the operating hours of your import-export company - so that the reader can check the adequacy of your staffing levels - and any plans for varying opening times during peak season. Additionally, the plan should include details on how you will handle customer queries outside of normal operating hours.

The next part of this section should focus on the key assets and IP required to operate your business. If you depend on any licenses or trademarks, physical structures (equipment or property) or lease agreements, these should all go in there.

You could have key assets such as a fleet of trucks and a warehouse for storing goods. Additionally, the company might have intellectual property like a set of operational procedures that allow for efficient transport of goods or access to exclusive deals with suppliers that could give them a competitive advantage.

Finally, you should include a list of suppliers that you plan to work with and a breakdown of their services and main commercial terms (price, payment terms, contract duration, etc.). Investors are always keen to know if there is a particular reason why you have chosen to work with a specific supplier (higher-quality products or past relationships for example).

7. The presentation of the financial plan

The financial plan section is where we will include the financial forecast we talked about earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a clear idea of the content of an import-export company business plan, let's look at some of the tools you can use to create yours.

What tool should I use to write my import-export company's business plan?

In this section, we will be reviewing the two main options for writing an import-export company business plan efficiently:

  • Using specialized software,
  • Outsourcing the drafting to the business plan writer.

Using an online business plan software for your import-export company's business plan

Using online business planning software is the most efficient and modern way to write an import-export company business plan.

There are several advantages to using specialized software:

  • You can easily create your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
  • You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
  • You can access a library of dozens of complete business plan samples and templates for inspiration
  • You get a professional business plan, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
  • You can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast
  • You can create scenarios to stress test your forecast's main assumptions
  • You can easily update your forecast as time goes by to maintain visibility on future cash flows
  • You have a friendly support team on standby to assist you when you are stuck

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try The Business Plan Shop for free by signing up here .

Hiring a business plan writer to write your import-export company's business plan

Outsourcing your import-export company business plan to a business plan writer can also be a viable option.

Business plan writers are skilled in creating error-free business plans and accurate financial forecasts. Moreover, hiring a consultant can save you valuable time, allowing you to focus on day-to-day business operations.

However, it's essential to be aware that hiring business plan writers will be expensive, as you're not only paying for their time but also the software they use and their profit margin.

Based on experience, you should budget at least £1.5k ($2.0k) excluding tax for a comprehensive business plan, and more if you require changes after initial discussions with lenders or investors.

Also, exercise caution when seeking investment. Investors prefer their funds to be directed towards business growth rather than spent on consulting fees. Therefore, the amount you spend on business plan writing services and other consulting services should be insignificant compared to the amount raised.

Keep in mind that one drawback is that you usually don't own the business plan itself; you only receive the output, while the actual document is saved in the consultant's business planning software. This can make it challenging to update the document without retaining the consultant's services.

For these reasons, carefully consider outsourcing your import-export company business plan to a business plan writer, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of seeking outside assistance.

Why not create your import-export company's business plan using Word or Excel?

Using Microsoft Excel and Word (or their Google, Apple, or open-source equivalents) to write an import-export company business plan is a terrible idea.

For starters, creating an accurate and error-free financial forecast on Excel (or any spreadsheet) is very technical and requires both a strong grasp of accounting principles and solid skills in financial modelling.

As a result, it is unlikely anyone will trust your numbers unless - like us at The Business Plan Shop - you hold a degree in finance and accounting and have significant financial modelling experience in your past.

The second reason is that it is inefficient. Building forecasts on spreadsheets was the only option in the 1990s and early 2000s, nowadays technology has advanced and software can do it much faster and much more accurately.

And with the rise of AI, software is also becoming smarter at helping us detect mistakes in our forecasts and helping us analyse the numbers to make better decisions.

Also, using software makes it easy to compare actuals vs. forecasts and maintain our forecasts up to date to maintain visibility on future cash flows - as we discussed earlier in this guide - whereas this is a pain to do with a spreadsheet.

That's for the forecast, but what about the written part of my import-export company business plan?

This part is less error-prone, but here also software brings tremendous gains in productivity:

  • Word processors don't include instructions and examples for each part of your business plan
  • Word processors don't update your numbers automatically when they change in your forecast
  • Word processors don't handle the formatting for you

Overall, while Word or Excel may be viable options for creating an import-export company business plan for some entrepreneurs, it is by far not the best or most efficient solution.

  • Using business plan software is a modern and cost-effective way of writing and maintaining business plans.
  • A business plan is not a one-shot exercise as maintaining it current is the only way to keep visibility on your future cash flows.
  • A business plan has 2 main parts: a financial forecast outlining the funding requirements of your import-export company and the expected growth, profits and cash flows for the next 3 to 5 years; and a written part which gives the reader the information needed to decide if they believe the forecast is achievable.

We hope that this in-depth guide met your expectations and that you now have a clear understanding of how to write your import-export company business plan. Do not hesitate to contact our friendly team if you have questions additional questions we haven't addressed here.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

  • How to write a business plan to secure a bank loan?
  • Key steps to write a business plan?
  • Top mistakes to avoid in your business plan

Do you know entrepreneurs interested in starting or growing an import-export company? Share this article with them!

Guillaume Le Brouster

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

Create a convincing business plan

Assess the profitability of your business idea and create a persuasive business plan to pitch to investors

The Business Plan Shop | Business Plan Software

500,000+ entrepreneurs have already tried our solution - why not join them?

Not ready to try our on-line tool ? Learn more about our solution here

Need some inspiration for your business plan?

Subscribe to The Business Plan Shop and gain access to our business plan template library.

business plan template library

Need a professional business plan? Discover our solution

Write your business plan with ease!

Business Plan Software

It's easy to create a professional business plan with The Business Plan Shop

Want to find out more before you try? Learn more about our solution here

A Touch of Business

How to Start an Import/Export Business

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting An Import/Export Business Points to Consider Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

Embarking on Import/Export Business

A step-by-step guide to launch, along with practical examples. Leverage “Knowledge Is Power” for current insights—resources for startup and ongoing success.

Let’s get started with the steps.

Steps to Starting an Import/Export Business

Below are the steps to starting an Import/Export business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

  • An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
  • Import/Export Business Overview
  • Researching Your Import/Export Business
  • Looking at Financials
  • Choosing A Business Location
  • Creating Your Mission Statement
  • Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
  • Choose an Import/Export Business Name
  • Register Your Company
  • Create Your Corporate Identity
  • Writing a Business Plan
  • Banking Considerations
  • Getting the Funds for Your Operation
  • Software Setup
  • Business Insurance Considerations
  • Supplier and Service Provider Considerations
  • Physical Setup
  • Creating a Website
  • Create an External Support Team
  • Hiring Employees

1.  An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

Is Starting an Import/Export Business the Right Step for You?

There is a key factor to succeeding in business, and that factor is you!

Understanding Your Passion

Understanding how you feel about owning and running an Import/Export business is important.

The Power of Passion

Passion is a crucial element for success in your own business.

The Driving Force

Passion is the driving force you need.

When you’re passionate about your business and problems, arise, you look for solutions. On the other hand, without it, you’ll look for a way out.

Assessing Your Passion

How passionate are you about owning your own Import/Export business?

Let’s go through a short exercise. Take a few minutes to think about this. It’s important before moving forward.

Imagine you won the lottery, quit your job, traveled the world, and bought your dream home, cars, and everything you ever wanted. You have given to charity and causes you believe in. You have helped your friends and family with more than enough money to live a better life.

It’s been three years since you won the lottery, and you still have 10 million dollars left in cash and investments that provide more than enough income flowing in every month.

Passion’s Litmus Test

Here is an important question to think about!

Now that you have achieved everything you have ever wanted, would you still start an Import/Export business?

If your answer is yes, it shows that you are passionate about owning and operating an Import/Export business and are heading in the right direction.

However, if your answer is no, it prompts another question:

Alternative Paths

What would you prefer to do instead? Perhaps, you should pursue that path instead.

The Sum of It

In summary, you need to be passionate about the business you plan to start because it’s something you want to do!

When your only concern is the money generated, you won’t be as successful as starting a business you are passionate about.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business . Also, see, Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify key points for a new business owner.

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning an Import/Export Business

Next, let’s spend some time on key issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running your business.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning an Import/Export Business

An Import/Export business operates at the heart of international trade, facilitating the exchange of products between countries.

This dynamic venture involves sourcing products from one country and distributing them in another, creating a bridge between different markets and cultures.

Inward and Outward Flow

In the import aspect, the business identifies products in foreign markets holding local demand, negotiates deals with manufacturers and suppliers, and manages the logistics to bring these products to the home market.

On the export side, the business identifies local products with potential appeal in foreign markets, connects with buyers, and oversees delivering products to international customers.

Driving Global Economy

This type of commerce plays a pivotal role in diversifying markets and supporting economic growth.

It introduces products that might not be available otherwise, enriching consumer choices globally.

Moreover, it creates opportunities for manufacturers and producers to tap into wider markets, expanding their reach beyond national borders.

Navigating Challenges

Running an Import/Export business requires navigating intricate regulations, customs procedures, currency fluctuations, and cultural differences.

Adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and strong logistical planning are crucial to success.

In essence, this venture isn’t just about moving products—it’s about fostering connections and contributing to the intricate web of global trade.

Daily Operations in Import/Export Business

  • Market Research: Identifying demand, trends, and potential markets.
  • Supplier Outreach: Connecting with manufacturers and suppliers.
  • Negotiations: Securing favorable terms, including pricing and quantities.
  • Logistics: Organizing shipping, customs, and warehousing.
  • Documentation: Managing permits, licenses, and trade regulations.
  • Quality Control: Ensuring products meet standards.
  • Sales and Marketing: Attracting clients, promoting products.
  • Financial Management: Budgeting, pricing, and payment handling.
  • Relationship Building: Cultivating partnerships globally.
  • Staying Updated: Adapting to evolving regulations and markets.

Running an Import/Export business demands adaptability, negotiation skills, market awareness, and logistical efficiency. It’s a dynamic venture with potential for growth in the global marketplace.

b.) Import/Export Business Models

Variety of Import/Export Business Models

1. Trading Company: Acting as an intermediary, trading companies buy products from manufacturers and sell them to foreign markets. They don’t alter products significantly.

2. Distributorship: These businesses secure exclusive distribution rights within a specific region. They focus on building a strong local presence and managing distribution networks.

3. Export Management Company (EMC): EMCs work on behalf of manufacturers, handling all aspects of exporting. They earn commission based on sales.

4. Import/Export Agent: Agents connect buyers and sellers, earning a commission for successful transactions. They’re valuable for those with limited resources.

5. Dropshipping : This model involves selling products without holding inventory. When a sale occurs, products are shipped directly from the supplier to the customer.

6. Licensing and Franchising: Foreign companies can produce and sell products using your brand. Franchising involves replicating your business model in other countries.

Strategic Decision

Choosing the right business model from the beginning is crucial, as switching later is challenging. Identifying a profitable and high-demand niche is equally vital.

Research extensively, analyze market trends , and align your strengths with the chosen model. Success in the import/export realm hinges on astute planning and a clear strategic direction.

c.) Pros and Cons of Owning an Import/Export Business

Pros of Owning an Import/Export Business

  • Entrepreneurial Freedom: You can be your own boss, making independent decisions to shape your business.
  • Creativity Unleashed: Your business is a canvas for innovation and new ideas.
  • Potential for High Revenue: A successful venture can yield substantial profits.
  • Flexibility: Successful operations and a capable team can afford you flexible work hours.
  • Control Over Environment: You have the power to create a work environment that suits you.
  • Global Reach: Connecting with diverse markets opens expansive opportunities.
  • Learning Opportunity: Navigating international trade sharpens your skills.
  • Cultural Exposure: Engaging with different cultures enriches your perspective.

Cons of Running an Import/Export Business

  • Accountability: Problems and challenges rest on your shoulders.
  • Irregular Income: Earnings can be unpredictable in the initial stages.
  • Tough Start-Up: The beginning can be financially and operationally demanding.
  • Customer Acquisition: Gaining and retaining customers requires dedicated efforts.
  • Long Work Hours: Expectations of dedication may lead to extended workdays.
  • Pressure to Thrive: Success pressure is always present in a competitive landscape.
  • Significant Investment: Starting often demands substantial capital outlay.
  • Adaptation Challenges: Constant changes in regulations and markets require adaptability.
  • Inherent Risks: Business ownership comes with financial and operational risks.

Navigating the Journey

Owning an Import/Export business offers remarkable potential, but embracing both its rewards and challenges is vital.

Careful planning, resilience, and a willingness to learn are key to thriving in this dynamic domain.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

d.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Import/Export Business

Preparing for Your Import/Export Business Journey

Addressing the following inquiries prepare you for potential challenges in your Import/Export venture.

Before You Begin: Key Considerations

  • Business Model: What Import/Export model resonates with your goals?
  • Work Dynamics: Will you handle tasks solo or hire a team?
  • Management Approach: Do you plan to lead or hire a manager?
  • Customer Acquisition: How will you attract your initial customers?
  • Customer Retention : What strategies ensure customer loyalty?
  • Partnerships: Are partnerships or investors on your radar?
  • Physical or Digital: Will your business be brick-and-mortar or online?
  • Growth Contemplation: Have you envisioned your business’s long-term expansion?

Insightful Planning for Success

As you contemplate these questions, you pave the way for a more informed and strategic approach to your Import/Export enterprise.

Navigating the intricacies of global trade demands thoughtful consideration, ensuring your business is primed for success and sustainability.

3. Research

Import/export business research.

Essential Research for Your Import/Export Business

Conducting thorough research before embarking on your venture is paramount. Quality information will illuminate your path, preventing unexpected hurdles.

Leveraging Expertise

Engage with experienced professionals in the Import/Export realm. Their insights provide dependable guidance honed by practical experience.

Invaluable Learning

Time spent with these experts is an invaluable opportunity. Their knowledge and seasoned experience offer priceless insights.

Guidance for Your Journey

I’ve crafted an article outlining methods to identify and approach these knowledgeable individuals.

These steps extend beyond this post. Reading the article via the link below will provide a comprehensive understanding of your forthcoming endeavor.

Empower yourself with the wisdom of those who’ve walked the path.

This approach ensures you’re well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the Import/Export landscape.

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Target Audience

Understanding Your Target Audience in Import/Export Business

Knowing your target market is key. Tailoring your offerings to their preferences and needs enhances your Import/Export business’s appeal.

import business business plan

Identifying Potential Interest: Target Market Ideas

  • Small Businesses: Seeking diverse product sourcing.
  • Manufacturers: Exploring global markets for distribution.
  • Entrepreneurs: Launching unique foreign products domestically.
  • Online Retailers: Accessing unique goods for e-commerce.
  • Wholesalers: Sourcing bulk products at competitive rates.
  • Artisans: Seeking unique materials or components.
  • Boutiques: Curating distinct products for niche markets.
  • Global Brands: Expanding market presence through diversification.
  • Trade Shows: Participants interested in product variety.
  • Startups: Seeking cost-effective inventory solutions.

Catering to Success

Identifying your potential customers paves the way for strategic marketing and product offerings.

Knowing who values your Import/Export business’s offerings strengthens your competitive edge and positions you for growth.

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

Financial Overview of Your Import/Export Startup

Gain insights into startup costs, monthly outlays, revenues, and potential profits to steer your Import/Export venture toward success.

Startup Costs: Planning for a Smooth Launch

Accurate estimation of startup expenses is pivotal for a seamless launch.

Underestimation risks funds depletion, hindering your opening. Overestimation might deter potential investors.

Your expenses hinge on factors like scale, location, hiring , equipment, and leasing.

List your needs, gather prices, and anticipate unexpected costs during research.

For more detailed information, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Sales and Profit: Foundations of Financial Success

Sales depend on product appeal, demand, and strategic marketing. To ensure profitability:

  • Develop sought-after products.
  • Address market needs.
  • Skillfully promote your business.

Profit Calculation: Delving Beyond Revenue

Profitability entails more than direct sales earnings. It involves considering rent, payroll , overhead, and other costs.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue.

Sufficient sales must cover monthly expenses and yield personal income. A well-balanced equation ensures a prosperous journey in the Import/Export domain.

Simple Sample: Financial Lists to Consider As a Starting Point

Note: Focus on the issues more than the numbers. The numbers are samples. Your estimates will differ due to how you set up your business, location, expenses, and revenues. 

 Sample List of Estimated Costs to Start a New Import/Export Business in the USA (lower and upper values):

  • Business Registration and Licensing: $500 – $1,000
  • Office Space (Deposit and Initial Setup): $5,000 – $10,000
  • Initial Inventory Purchase: $10,000 – $50,000
  • Import/Export Documentation and Compliance: $1,000 – $5,000
  • Marketing and Branding: $2,000 – $7,000
  • Transportation and Shipping Equipment: $5,000 – $20,000
  • Website Development: $1,000 – $5,000
  • Legal and Professional Consultation: $2,000 – $10,000
  • Total Estimated Starting Costs: $26,500 – $108,000

Sample List of Estimated Monthly Expenses for an Import/Export Business in the USA:

  • Rent for Office Space: $1,500 – $3,000
  • Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet): $200 – $500
  • Salaries and Wages: $5,000 – $15,000
  • Insurance: $300 – $800
  • Loan Payments: $1,000 – $3,000
  • Marketing and Advertising: $500 – $2,000
  • Transportation and Shipping Costs: $2,000 – $6,000
  • Legal and Compliance Fees: $300 – $1,000
  • Total Monthly Expenses: $10,800 – $31,300

3. Sample of a Few Examples of Profit per Sale:

  • Low-End Product: Profit of $10 – $50 per unit
  • Mid-Range Product: Profit of $50 – $200 per unit
  • High-End Product: Profit of $200 – $1,000 per unit

Finish Note: Your overall profit will depend on the monthly sales you can generate and your actual profit per sale.

These are samples so you can understand the issues to consider when planning to start your Import/Export business. So focus on the list and not the numbers.

Adjusting costs makes a significant difference in whether the business will be successful.

A slight shift in profit per sale on high-volume sales will make a difference in your overall profits.

Also, note many new businesses take time to become profitable because it takes building a customer base, building a reputation, and fine-tuning operations.

Your figures will be different. Every situation is different, and many factors come into play.

Research and Consider getting professional advice when calculating your business’s startup costs, expenses, and potential revenues and profits.

5. Choosing The Right Business Location

Strategic Location: Key to Business Success

The fate of your local brick-and-mortar business hinges heavily on your chosen site.

Demand Dynamics: A Decisive Factor

Operating where demand for your offerings is scarce spells failure even before launch.

Competitive Landscape: Finding the Sweet Spot

Overcrowded locales make market share acquisition a challenge.

Ideal Scenario: Balancing Act

Locate where demand and competition strike equilibrium.

Cost Considerations: Financial Prudence

Affordability is vital. A high population brings exposure, but expenses must not outweigh gains.

Balance Affordability and Sales Potential

Inexpensive sites need ample customer flow for sustainability.

Online Realm’s Flexibility

Even for online models, assess demand and rivalry closely.

Ultimate Influence on Success

In sum, location selection steers business destiny. Thoroughly research and analyze options. Your decision shapes your venture’s triumph.

For more about business locations, see Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

6. Create Your Mission Statement

Guiding Your Business’s Purpose: The Role of a Mission Statement

A mission statement serves as a compass, aiding you in identifying your business’s core purpose.

It’s a reminder of the primary value you bring to customers and the community, ensuring you stay on track.

Mission Statement Examples for an Import/Export Business

  • “Empowering Global Commerce: Connecting businesses worldwide, enriching markets with diverse products.”
  • “Navigating Boundaries, Enhancing Lives: Bridging nations, offering quality goods to uplift lives globally.”
  • “Driving Trade Diversity: Facilitating cross-cultural trade, fostering economic growth, one partnership at a time.”
  • “Catalyzing Global Business: Facilitating seamless exchange, propelling businesses towards international success.”
  • “Enriching Connections, Empowering Economies: Uniting markets through unparalleled import/export solutions.”

Steering Purpose and Value

These mission statement samples exemplify how your business’s fundamental aim can be succinctly captured. Such a statement keeps your endeavors aligned, ensuring the provision of exceptional value to both clientele and the community at large.

For more, see, How To Create a Mission Statement.

7. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Crafting Distinction: The Power of Unique Selling Proposition

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) aids in discerning and crafting elements that set your business apart.

It’s a potent tool for creating something distinctive that resonates with customers.

Examples of USP for an Import/Export Business

  • “Global Discovery Hub: Unearth unique products from every corner of the world, tailored for your market’s cravings.”
  • “Seamless Sourcing Solutions: Our network guarantees streamlined access to the globe’s most sought-after products.”
  • “Cultural Connection Catalyst: Bridging gaps with products that celebrate diversity, fostering international camaraderie.”
  • “Reliable Worldwide Reach: Empowering businesses with consistent access to global markets, ensuring growth.”
  • “Tailored Treasures, Globally Delivered: Transforming international products into local treasures, delivered at your doorstep.”

Carving Identity, Sustaining Success

These USP samples exemplify how to carve a unique business identity.

USP underscores your distinct value, magnetizing customers and cultivating lasting success.

8. Choose a Business Name

Crafting an Exceptional Business Name : A Vital Choice

Your business name plays a pivotal role in brand recognition.

Opt for a catchy, apt name that’s both easy to recall and pronounce. It’s a long-lasting decision that holds significance throughout your business journey.

Incorporating Factors for a Striking Name

Ensure your chosen name aligns with your venture’s essence.

It’s advisable to have a matching domain for an online presence. Verify name availability to avoid legal complications.

30 Import/Export Business Name Ideas: Fueling Creativity

  • GlobalLink Commerce
  • Horizon Trade Co.
  • EchoCommerce
  • MarketFusion Export
  • Nexus Imports
  • TerraTrade Connections
  • WorldBridge Traders
  • Aegis International
  • SpectrumExports
  • EchoSphere Imports
  • PrimeWorld Traders
  • TradeMosaic
  • Echelon Global Goods
  • Unity Exporters
  • GlobeGlide Imports
  • VentureHaven Traders
  • EnrichGlobal Commerce
  • InterLoom Trading Co.
  • Skylight Exports
  • ZenithCross Imports
  • NexusSphere Trade
  • VirtuTrade Global
  • Infinite Horizons Commerce
  • TerraTrek Traders
  • PinnacleExports
  • TradePulse International
  • EnvisionEdge Imports
  • SummitWorld Commerce
  • EquiTrade Global

Igniting Brand Identity

These name suggestions spark your imaginative process, assisting you in forging a distinct business identity.

Pick a name resonating with your venture’s essence, securing a memorable position in the global business landscape.

For more, see the following articles:

  • How To Register a Business Name
  • Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

9. Register Your Company

Legal Foundations for Your Import/Export Business

Ensuring Compliance: An Imperative Step

Establishing your business on legal grounds is paramount.

Professional Consultation: A Wise Move

Consulting professional aids in legal assurance, optimal tax strategies, and liability management.

Common Business Registrations for an Import/Export Venture

  • Sole Proprietorship: Individual ownership simplicity.
  • Partnership: Shared responsibility and resources.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC): Personal liability protection.
  • Corporation: Legal entity status, distinct from owners.

Permits and Licenses: Navigating Legal Terrain

  • Business License: Operational legitimacy.
  • Importer/Exporter License: Compliance for global trade.
  • Sales Tax Permit: Tax collection eligibility.
  • Customs Bond: Assurance for customs compliance.
  • EIN (Employer Identification Number): Tax identification for businesses with employees.

Prioritizing Legal Adherence

By comprehending these legal aspects, your Import/Export business gains firm legal footing. Seek professional guidance, ensuring a compliant and thriving journey.

Registration:

  • How to Register Your Business
  • How To Register a DBA
  • How to Register a Trademark
  • How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

  • How to Choose a Business Structure
  • Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
  • How To Form an LLC
  • How To Register a Business Partnership
  • How To Form a Corporation
  • How To Choose a Business Registration Service

10. Create Your Corporate Identity

Building a Strong Corporate Identity: A Design Emblem

import business business plan

Defining Corporate ID: Visual Business Representation

A Corporate ID encapsulates your business essence in design.

Key Elements of Corporate ID: Crafting Visual Cohesion

Components encompass logo, business cards, website, signage, stationery, and promotional materials.

Consistency is King: Leaving a Lasting Impression

A uniform, professional design resonates with both new and loyal customers.

Crafting Visual Excellence

Crafting a cohesive Corporate ID leaves an indelible mark.

A seamless design across mediums elevates your business presence, engaging customers and building brand loyalty.

You can see our page for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

11. Writing a Business Plan

Strategic Roadmap: The Significance of a Business Plan

Pivotal Document: Navigating Growth and Investment

A business plan serves dual roles: securing funding and guiding operations. It outlines your business’s course from inception to full operation.

Vision in Ink: Cultivating Your Business’s Blueprint

Creating a business plan is a meticulous process. It encapsulates your envisioned business reality, demanding time and consideration.

Comprehensive Vision: A Path to Clarity and Success

Crafting a business plan reaps the rewards. It unveils your business’s essentials, ensuring a clear roadmap for commencement and operation.

Approaches to Formulating Your Plan

Options abound: crafting from scratch, seeking professional assistance, employing templates, or using business plan software.

Personal Involvement: A Touch of Distinctiveness

Active engagement is vital, particularly when collaborating with a professional. Distinctiveness and effective communication are paramount.

Adaptability and Optimization: An Evolving Blueprint

Your business plan evolves alongside the experience. Regular review and optimization ensure congruence with operational realities.

Business Plan Template for an Import/Export Business

I. Executive Summary:

  • Overview: Briefly describe your Import/Export business, mission, and vision.
  • Objectives: Key business goals and milestones to achieve.
  • Ownership Structure: Information on the business’s ownership, whether a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation.

II. Business Description:

  • Industry Background: Description of the import/export industry and current market trends.
  • Business Offering: Detailed explanation of the products or services you import or export.
  • Target Market: Outline your primary target markets, including geographic locations and demographics.

III. Market Analysis:

  • Market Needs: Identify the needs of your target market and how your business will meet those needs.
  • Competitive Analysis: Analyze your main competitors, their strengths and weaknesses, and your competitive edge.

IV. Marketing and Sales Strategy:

  • Marketing Plan : Detail your marketing strategies, channels, and tools.
  • Sales Strategy: Outline your sales techniques, processes, and targets.

V. Operations Plan:

  • Location: Description of the business location, considering logistics and accessibility.
  • Technology Needs: Outline the technology required for operations, including software for tracking shipments.
  • Supply Chain Management: Detail your strategies for sourcing products, managing suppliers, and maintaining inventory.

VI. Financial Plan:

  • Start-up Costs: Detailed estimate of the initial investment required.
  • Revenue Projections: Monthly and yearly revenue forecasts.
  • Expense Projections: Estimation of ongoing operational expenses, including loan payments.
  • Break-even Analysis: Calculation of the point at which revenues equal expenses.

VII. Legal and Compliance:

  • Licenses and Permits: List necessary licenses and permits for the import/export business.
  • Regulations: Outline applicable international and domestic regulations and how you plan to comply.

VIII. Risk Management:

  • Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks, such as currency fluctuations or regulatory changes.
  • Mitigation Strategies: Outline strategies to mitigate those risks.

IX. Management and Personnel:

  • Management Team: Profiles of the key management team members, including qualifications and experience.
  • Organizational Structure: Description of the company’s organizational structure, including departments and roles.

X. Appendices and Supporting Documents:

  • Financial Statements: Include any necessary financial statements, charts, or graphs.
  • Legal Documents: Copies of relevant legal agreements, patents, or other intellectual property documentation.

XI. Conclusion:

  • Summary: Concluding remarks summarizing the critical aspects of the business plan.
  • Next Steps: Clearly outline the next steps and actions required to implement the plan.

Remember, this template is a starting point, and it should be customized to fit the unique needs and regulations related to your specific import/export business.

Conduct thorough research and consider seeking professional advice to ensure that all aspects are covered comprehensively.

For information on creating your business plan, see, How to Write a Business Plan.

12. Banking Considerations

Financial Foundations: Choosing the Right Banking Partner

Strategic Banking Choice: Empowering Small Businesses

Opt for a local bank with a strong small business focus for optimal support.

Distinct Account, Streamlined Finances

A dedicated business account segregates expenses vital for sole proprietorships: precise expense tracking, seamless bookkeeping, and audit protection result.

Building Banking Relationships: Advantages Beyond Transactions

Foster a rapport with your banker. Access advice, financial services, and simplified application procedures.

Embrace Digital Transactions: Amplify Sales

Merchant accounts and online services boost sales by facilitating credit and debit card payments—convenience and higher sales potential benefit both business and customers.

For more, see, How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at, What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

13. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

Financial Launchpad: Navigating Business Loans

Crucial Tips for Loan Seekers

Exploring Funding Avenues: Options for Import/Export Ventures

Consider diverse funding paths: traditional lenders, private loans, investors, asset sales, and collateral usage.

Meeting with a Loan Officer: Essential Points

  • Preparation: Understand your business needs and loan purpose.
  • Research: Know the lender’s criteria and offerings.
  • Documentation: Compile necessary financial and business documents.
  • Business Plan: Present a well-structured plan highlighting profitability and repayment strategies.
  • Clarity: Articulate your business’s strengths, market viability, and repayment certainty.

Required Documents for New Business Loan Application

  • Business Plan
  • Personal and Business Credit History
  • Financial Statements
  • Income Tax Returns
  • Legal Documents (Incorporation, Contracts, etc.)
  • Collateral Details (if applicable)

Empowering Your Business’s Financial Journey

These insights facilitate informed loan pursuit.

Thorough preparation, diligent research, and organized documentation enhance your Import/Export venture’s financial foundations.

See, Getting a Small Business Loan for more.

14. Software Setup

Software Selection: Strategic Insights for Import/Export Ventures

Informed Software Choice: A Prudent Step

Thoroughly researching software options is paramount.

Opting for a robust system from the outset minimizes the need for future transitions, preserving data integrity.

Dependability Matters: A Proven Track Record

Prioritize software companies with a strong history, ensuring ongoing support and reliability.

Exploring Demos and Reviews: Insights from Users

Assess software through demos, reviews, and forums. Gaining firsthand experiences of others aids informed decision-making.

Comprehensive Software Considerations

  • Import/Export Management Software
  • Supply Chain Management (SCM) Software
  • Customs Broker Software
  • International Trade Compliance Software
  • Logistics and Freight Management Software
  • Inventory Management Software
  • Financial Software (Accounting and Bookkeeping)
  • E-commerce Platform
  • Communication Tools (Email, Video Conferencing)
  • Data Analytics Tools
  • CRM (Customer Relationship Management) Software
  • Language Translation Software

Accounting Software: Expert Counsel

For financial management, consult your bookkeeper or accountant to select suitable accounting software, ensuring compliance and streamlined tax filing.

By diligently researching software, you pave the way for efficient operations and lasting success in your import/export business.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for an Import/Export business.

15. Get The Right Business Insurance

Safeguarding Your Business: Insurance Essentials

Proactive Protection: Prioritize Insurance

Secure appropriate insurance coverage before commencing any business activities to shield against unforeseen incidents.

Comprehensive Protection: Addressing Diverse Risks

Consider insurance covering customers, employees, property, and potential legal liabilities.

Professional Liability Shield: Navigating Legal Claims

Professional liability insurance guards against potential lawsuits and legal claims.

Operational Continuity: Embrace Interruption Insurance

Interruption insurance provides crucial support during involuntary shutdowns, ensuring operational continuity.

Home-Based Business Alert: Maintain Insurance Validity

If operating from home, inform your home insurance agent to prevent nullifying your existing policy.

Insurance Expertise: Navigating Coverage Adequacy

Leverage a competent insurance broker’s guidance to ensure comprehensive coverage, protecting your business interests effectively.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google Import/Export business insurance search results.

16. Suppliers, Service Providers and Inventory

Strategic Supplier Relations: Fueling Business Success

Essential Supplier Partnerships: Items and Services

Enumerate essential items and services your Import/Export business may source from suppliers.

Supplier Bonds: Cornerstone of Operational Success

Forge strong connections with suppliers and service providers to underpin your business triumph. Trustworthiness and reliability are paramount.

Cost-Efficient Collaborations: Competitive Prices and Margins

A dependable supplier allows cost-effective pricing, facilitating customer savings and bolstering profit margins.

Seamless Operations: Ensuring Adequate Supplies

Reliable suppliers guarantee smooth business operations by providing essential supplies consistently.

Mutually Beneficial Ties: Respect and Shared Gains

Nurturing a mutually advantageous relationship with suppliers enhances cooperation and rapport.

Strategic Inventory Management: Customer-Centric Approach

Product Mix and Variety: Customer-Centric Focus

Curate your inventory based on customer preferences and include variety for broad customer appeal, augmenting value.

Inventory Control: Balance and Efficiency

Strike a balance in inventory volume to prevent tied-up funds or lost sales, optimizing resource allocation.

Expiry Date Vigilance: Mitigating Loss

Mitigate losses by managing expiration dates meticulously, ensuring inventory freshness and value.

By cultivating robust supplier relationships and strategic inventory management, your Import/Export business thrives with efficiency and customer-centricity.

For More See, How To Choose a Supplier.

17. Physical Setup

Strategic Setup: Physical Arrangement for Success

Optimized Layout: A Blueprint for Efficiency

Designing an effective physical setup for your Import/Export business is pivotal. A streamlined layout enhances operational efficiency.

Strategic Signage: Guiding the Way

Strategically placed signage is vital for customer guidance and professional presentation.

Beyond the main business sign, ensure directional and informational signs in key areas like parking lots, exits, and special zones.

Office Harmony: A Productive Workspace

Your office plays a crucial role in managing your business. A well-organized office is a hub of productivity, fostering efficient business management.

Functional Equipping: Necessities for Effectiveness

Equip your office comprehensively to facilitate smooth business operations. Essential tools, technology, and resources should be at your fingertips.

Space Optimization: Productivity and Professionalism

Effective physical setup and signage guide customers seamlessly and reflect professionalism, while an organized office empowers efficient business management.

Maximize your potential by laying a strong foundation for operational success.

See, Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office, for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

Virtual Presence: Your Digital Storefront

Essential Website: Gateway to Your Business

A website is an indispensable asset for business owners, serving as a primary interface for sharing information with existing and potential clients.

Ownership Advantage: Your Virtual Territory

Unlike social media platforms, your website offers autonomy and control.

When you host your site and secure a domain name, you dictate the rules.

Marketing Potential: Showcasing Expertise

Your website doubles as a marketing powerhouse.

By sharing industry insights and valuable tips through blogs, you position yourself as an authority, fostering customer trust and bolstering sales potential.

A website isn’t just a digital address; it’s a dynamic tool that strengthens your brand, reinforces credibility, and expands your reach in the competitive landscape.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

External Support Network: Your Advisory Allies

An external support team comprises non-payroll professionals providing advice and services.

Their expertise aids projects, contracts, or on a retainer basis.

While some members might already be collaborators, embracing them as your core team enhances their role.

Strategic Approach: Building a Resilient Network

You needn’t assemble the complete team before launch; fostering these relationships takes time.

However, nurturing this network is an ongoing endeavor for enduring success.

Team Synergy: Collaborative Powerhouse

Your team may encompass an accountant, lawyer, financial advisor, marketing specialist, technical advisor, and consultant.

Their collective prowess fortifies your business, providing insights, solutions, and guidance when needed.

This collaborative network safeguards your business journey.

For more, see, Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

Growing Workforce: Hiring Right for Expansion

In the initial phases, handling tasks single-handedly can curb costs, especially considering the significant payroll expense during startup.

As the business flourishes, your ability to manage all aspects may dwindle, prompting the need for new hires.

Strategic Hiring: Building a Competent Team

When recruiting, prioritize qualified individuals with strong work ethics for each role.

Properly fitting employees enhance productivity and streamline operations, facilitating business growth.

Essential Roles: Structuring Your Team

The following are job positions or outsourced services you may want to consider as your Import/Export business grows:

  • Sales and Marketing Specialist
  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Customs Compliance Manager
  • Financial Analyst
  • Customer Service Representative
  • Inventory Manager
  • Data Analyst
  • Shipping Coordinator
  • Legal Advisor
  • Graphic Designer
  • Content Writer

As you scale, assembling the right team becomes pivotal to sustaining success and expanding your import/export enterprise.

For more, see, How and When to Hire a New Employee.

Points To Consider

Hours of operation:.

Operating Hours for Import/Export Business

Consider these hours of operation for your Import/Export business:

  • Weekdays: Standard business hours, 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturdays: Half-day, 9 AM to 1 PM
  • Sundays: Closed
  • Holidays: Closed, unless essential for trade

Adapting operational hours to global time zones and clients’ needs is vital for international commerce. Flexibility can enhance customer satisfaction and streamline communication.

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for an Import/Export Business:

  • Computers and Laptops: For communication, research, and documentation.
  • High-Speed Internet Connection: Essential for online transactions and communication.
  • Smartphones: Stay connected on the go and manage business emails.
  • Printer and Scanner: For printing contracts, invoices, and scanning documents.
  • Office Furniture: Desks, chairs, and storage for a comfortable workspace.
  • Communication Tools: Landline phones, mobiles, and headsets.
  • Shipping Supplies: Packaging materials, boxes, tape, and labels.
  • Inventory Management System: Software to track stock and orders.
  • Security Measures: Surveillance cameras and alarm systems for asset protection.
  • Transportation: Vehicles for local pickups and deliveries.
  • Warehousing Equipment: Shelving, pallets, and forklifts for storage.
  • Global Positioning System (GPS): For efficient navigation during shipments.
  • Customs Documentation Tools: Software to manage international paperwork.
  • Currency Conversion Tools: To handle multi-currency transactions.
  • Backup Systems: Data backup solutions to prevent data loss.

Customize this list based on your business scale and specific needs.

Key Points To Succeeding in an Import/Export Business

Successfully operating an Import/Export business requires attention to several crucial points:

  • Building Customer Base: Establishing a customer base is challenging during startup. Develop strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees.
  • Supplying Demand: Offer products and services that customers desire, adapting to their needs and preferences.
  • Customer Feedback: Use customer feedback to improve your business operations.
  • Exceptional Customer Service: Prioritize exceptional customer service, as your customers are the heart of your business.
  • Team Building: Assemble the right team for various positions, fostering a positive work environment.
  • Cash Flow Management: Efficiently manage cash flow to sustain operations and growth.
  • Cost Control: Keep costs low without compromising quality or service.
  • Adaptation to Change: Stay updated and adapt to industry, process, and technological changes.
  • Fluctuations and Competition: Handle revenue fluctuations and navigate competition, focusing on differentiation.
  • Effective Marketing: Invest in effective advertising and marketing to boost awareness and attract customers.

Remember these factors to drive your Import/Export business towards success.

Making Your Import/Export Business stand out

Making Your Import/Export Business Stand Out

Setting your Import/Export business apart in a competitive market is crucial for success.

Here are some ideas to make your business stand out:

  • Niche Specialization: Focus on a specific niche within the Import/Export industry. Specializing allows you to become an expert in a particular area, catering to a targeted customer base.
  • Exceptional Customer Experience: Provide an unparalleled customer experience from start to finish. Prompt communication, transparency, and going the extra mile can leave a lasting impression.
  • Unique Product Offerings: Source and offer unique, high-quality products that aren’t widely available. This exclusivity can attract customers seeking something different.
  • Sustainable Practices: Embrace environmentally-friendly practices in your operations, appealing to eco-conscious customers.
  • Technology Integration: Utilize cutting-edge technology to streamline processes, enhance customer service, and improve efficiency.
  • Customization: Offer personalized solutions that cater to individual customer needs and preferences.
  • Partnerships: Collaborate with complementary businesses to expand your reach and offer bundled services.
  • Online Presence: Develop a user-friendly, informative website and leverage social media to connect with potential customers globally.
  • Transparent Pricing: Provide clear and transparent pricing structures, instilling trust in customers.
  • Educational Resources: Share industry insights, how-tos, and resources through blogs, videos, and webinars, positioning your business as an industry authority.

Add on Ideas for an Import/Export Business

Diversifying your offerings with add-ons can enhance your business value and attract a broader clientele. Consider these add-on ideas:

  • Consulting Services: Provide expert advice to clients seeking guidance on navigating the import/export landscape.
  • Customs Clearance Assistance: Help clients navigate the complexities of customs regulations and paperwork.
  • Supply Chain Management: Offer end-to-end supply chain solutions, ensuring smooth operations for your clients.
  • Trade Compliance Training: Provide training sessions on trade compliance and regulations, empowering businesses to handle import/export processes more effectively.
  • Market Research Reports: Offer market research reports to clients looking to expand into new markets, providing valuable insights.
  • Freight and Logistics Services: Partner with logistics providers to offer seamless shipping and delivery solutions.
  • Trade Show Representation: Represent clients’ products at international trade shows to expand their reach.
  • Packaging Solutions: Provide customized packaging solutions that protect goods during transit and enhance brand identity.
  • Sourcing Tours: Offer guided sourcing tours to help clients discover suppliers and products in different regions.
  • Language and Cultural Consulting: Assist clients in understanding language and cultural nuances when dealing with international partners.

By incorporating these ideas and add-ons, you can make your Import/Export business unique, appealing, and positioned for success in a competitive global market.

Marketing Considerations

Attracting Customers for Your Import/Export Business

To succeed in the Import/Export industry, customer attraction is paramount. Initially challenging due to being new, it becomes easier as your reputation grows.

Marketing remains an ongoing process, driving revenue growth through effective strategies.

While you don’t always need a professional agency, investing in marketing yields significant returns.

Simple Methods to Promote Your Import/Export Business:

  • Networking: Attend industry events, trade shows, and conferences to connect with potential clients and partners.
  • Social Media: Leverage platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter to showcase your services, share industry insights, and engage with your audience.
  • Content Marketing: Create informative blogs, videos, and guides related to the import/export field to establish yourself as an expert.
  • Referral Programs: Encourage satisfied customers to refer your services to others in exchange for incentives.
  • Cold Calling/Emailing: Reach out to potential clients directly with tailored messages highlighting your services’ value.
  • Collaborations: Partner with related businesses for joint promotions, broadening your reach.
  • Localized SEO: Optimize your online content for local search terms to attract customers in your area.
  • Testimonials and Reviews: Display positive feedback from satisfied clients on your website and social media.
  • Webinars and Workshops: Host online sessions to educate potential clients about import/export processes and benefits.
  • Free Resources: Offer downloadable resources like e-books, checklists, or templates to entice potential clients to engage with your brand.
  • Direct Mail: Send informative brochures or postcards to targeted businesses that could benefit from your services.
  • Participate in Forums: Engage in online forums and discussion boards related to import/export to share insights and build credibility.
  • Google My Business: Create and optimize your Google My Business listing to improve local visibility.
  • Video Marketing: Create informative videos explaining import/export procedures, highlighting your expertise.
  • Local Networking: Attend local business networking events to connect with potential clients in your area.
  • Industry Associations: Join relevant trade associations and actively participate in expanding your network.

Remember, effective marketing is about consistency and persistence.

As you invest time and effort into these simple methods, your Import/Export business’s visibility will grow, attracting a steady stream of interested customers.

We have an article on How To Get Customers Through the Door and a marketing section that will provide ideas to help you bring awareness to your business.

Sample Ad Ideas:

Headline: Unlock Global Opportunities with Our Import/Export Expertise!

Expand your business horizons with our seamless import/export solutions.

From customs clearance to logistics, we handle it all, ensuring your goods reach destinations hassle-free.

Tap into new markets, increase profits, and establish a global presence. Let us be your gateway to international success.

Headline: Navigate International Trade Effortlessly with Us!

Ad Copy: Breaking barriers in international trade is our forte.

Seamlessly import/export your goods with our expert guidance.

Our team ensures compliance, swift deliveries, and cost-effective solutions. Don’t let logistics hold you back – let us be your trade partner.

Headline: Your Bridge to Global Markets Starts Here!

Dreaming of tapping into overseas markets? Our import/export expertise is your ticket to success.

We handle every step, from documentation to delivery. Let’s make your business go global together.

Headline: Expand Borders, Increase Profits – Start Now!

Ad Copy: Why limit your business to local shores? Our import/export services open doors to endless possibilities.

Seamlessly move goods worldwide, conquer new markets, and elevate profits. Your journey to international success begins here.

Headline: Unleash Growth Potential – Import/Export Made Easy!

Ad Copy: Want to skyrocket your business growth? Our import/export solutions simplify global trade.

Seamlessly ship your products, ensure compliance, and boost profitability. Get started today and watch your business thrive on the global stage.

Potential Businesses for Referral Partnerships:

  • Logistics Companies: Collaborate with freight forwarders, shipping companies, and logistics providers. They can refer clients who need assistance with importing/exporting goods.
  • Customs Brokers: Build relationships with customs brokerage firms. They can refer clients looking  to import or export products.
  • International Trade Consultants: Partner with consultants who provide advice on global trade. You can complement each other’s services and refer clients back and forth.
  • Trade Associations: Join industry-specific trade associations and chambers of commerce. Network with members and establish referral partnerships.
  • E-commerce Platforms: If you specialize in importing/exporting goods related to e-commerce, collaborate with online marketplaces that could refer their sellers to your services.
  • Business Consultants: Business consultants often work with companies looking to expand globally. They can refer clients in need of import/export expertise.
  • Legal Firms: Attorneys specializing in international trade law can refer clients needing assistance with compliance, contracts, and legal aspects of import/export.
  • Manufacturers: Manufacturers seeking to export their products can refer you to their network for assistance with the logistics and export processes.
  • Financial Institutions: Establish partnerships with banks that offer international business services. They can refer clients who need assistance with cross-border transactions.
  • Export Development Agencies: Collaborate with government agencies focused on promoting exports. They may refer companies looking to expand their overseas market presence.

Remember, building a strong relationship with your referral partners is key.

Offer them value in return through referral fees, reciprocal referrals, or other mutually beneficial arrangements.

  • Assessing your skill set for running an Import/Export business is crucial. Your skills influence your business’s success.
  • Evaluate your abilities in negotiation, communication, market analysis, logistics, and customer relationship management.
  • If you lack a necessary skill, consider learning it through training or hiring professionals.

Essential Skills for an Import/Export Business Owner:

  • Market Research: Understanding global market trends and demands is vital.
  • Negotiation: Negotiating deals with suppliers, distributors, and customers.
  • Logistics Management: Efficiently coordinating shipments, customs clearance, and delivery.
  • Financial Acumen: Managing finances, calculating costs, and analyzing profitability.
  • Networking: Building relationships with industry professionals, suppliers, and customers.
  • Communication: Effective communication across cultures and languages.
  • Problem-Solving : Addressing unexpected challenges in international trade.
  • Risk Management: Mitigating potential risks, such as currency fluctuations and geopolitical uncertainties.
  • Legal Awareness: Understanding international trade regulations and compliance.
  • Adaptability: Navigating changing market dynamics and adapting strategies.
  • Leadership: Managing a team if your business grows.
  • Technology Proficiency: Utilizing software for inventory, logistics, and communication.

These skills can lead to informed decision-making, efficient operations, and successful business expansion.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

Knowledge Empowers: Industry Insights Await

Unveil valuable industry insights online.

These sections offer vital information for your research, startup, and operational phases. Dive in and harness the power of knowledge!

Trends and Statistics

Unveiling Industry Trends: Your Business Advantage

Explore industry trends and statistics for your Import/Export venture. Unlock valuable insights to steer your business toward success.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the Import/Export industry.

Import/Export Associations

Empowerment Through Trade Associations

Trade associations offer vital industry insights, networking, and events that keep you informed and connected.

Maximize your business potential with these valuable resources.

See the search results related to Import/Export associations.

The Top Import/Export Companies

Learning From Successful Models

Studying established Import/Export businesses can reveal innovative gaps in the industry or overlooked opportunities in your own venture.

See the latest search results for the top Import/Export companies.

The Future of the Import/Export Industry

Anticipating Industry Evolution

Researching the industry’s future is crucial for aspiring Import/Export business owners to prepare for upcoming trends, changes, and opportunities.

See the search results for the future of the Import/Export industry.

Import/Export Businesses for Sale

Buying vs. Starting: Weighing Your Options

When considering an existing Import/Export business for purchase, weigh the benefits:

  • Immediate Revenue Generation.
  • Skips Startup Phase.
  • Proven Business Model.
  • Known Financials & Customer Base.
  • Established Reputation.

However, note the downsides:

  • Higher Cost due to Goodwill.
  • Potential Customer Loss with Changes.
  • Inheriting Both Positive and Negative Reputation.

While an exact match might not be available, exploring the industry’s existing businesses can provide valuable insights for your decision-making process. Check out the link to learn more.

See the latest search results for a Import/Export business for sale and others closely related.

Franchise Opportunities Related to an Import/Export

Exploring Import/Export Franchises: A Balanced View

Considering an Import/Export franchise ? Understand the benefits and drawbacks before you decide:

  • Proven Business Model: Follow a successful blueprint from the corporate office.
  • Leverage Existing Reputation and Marketing.
  • Comprehensive Pre-Knowledge of the Business.
  • Corporate Support and Guidance.
  • Higher Initial Investment.
  • Limited Freedom for Major Changes.
  • Restricted to Approved Products/Services.
  • Bound by Franchise Agreement Terms.
  • Ongoing Franchise Fees.

Exploring franchise opportunities could uncover aspects of your Import/Export venture that you hadn’t considered.

While an exact match may not be available, browsing franchises in the same industry can provide valuable insights. Check out the link to learn more.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Import/Export Business Insights

Valuable Insights for Your Import/Export Business

Exploring tips and insights offers a wealth of knowledge. Discover brilliant ideas, avoid pitfalls, and enrich your understanding of the industry.

See the latest search results about insights into running an Import/Export business.

Import/Export Publications

Staying Informed: The Power of Publications

Publications serve as a dynamic resource for staying updated on the latest trends and insights within the Import/Export business landscape.

See the search results for Import/Export publications.

Import/Export Forums

Forums: Connecting and Learning in Import/Export

Participating in Import/Export forums offers a unique opportunity to engage in discussions, connect with industry peers, and gain valuable customer insights, enriching your perspective.

See the latest search results related to Import/Export forums.

Courses: Expanding Expertise for Import/Export Success

Enroll in online or local courses to enhance your skills, broaden your knowledge, and ensure ongoing professional growth within the Import/Export field.

See the latest courses on Import/Export  and our management articles to provide insights and tips on managing Your business.

Import/Export Blogs

Stay Informed: Subscribing to Import/Export Blogs

Subscribe to relevant Import/Export blogs to receive up-to-date insights and ideas.

Over time, curate your list by focusing on blogs that consistently providing valuable and current information for your business journey.

Look at the latest search results for Import/Export blogs to follow.

Import/Export News

Stay Current with Industry News

Regularly check industry news sources to stay informed about trends, developments, and updates in the Import/Export field.

See the latest results for Import/Export news.

YouTube for Insights

Explore YouTube for videos related to Import/Export business.

Many creators share valuable insights, tips, and tutorials that can enhance your knowledge and understanding of the industry.

See the links to YouTube Videos Below.

Videos related to starting an Import/Export business can be found here.

Privacy Overview

Import Export Business Plan: Everything You Need to Know

Making an import export business plan requires funds, time, and determination, but it's worth the effort. 3 min read updated on February 01, 2023

Making an import export business plan requires funds, time, and determination, but it's worth the effort. Especially, an export business plan is the key to success.

If you have an import-export business, it's essential to understand how to make an import-export business plan. You can work with your team to create an import-export business plan. You can also use online software to make a business plan for you automatically. However, you must know your requirements.

You should know your company well in order to align your resources and objectives with your business goals.

Things to Consider Before Writing an Import-Export Business Plan

1. Advertise Online

Almost all businesses must have a quality website. It's impossible to attract foreign customers without having an online presence. Set up a website with information about your offerings.

If you are planning to sell your products in another country, your website must be targeted at foreign clients. Have a working contact form on your website to make yourself reachable to the prospective customers. You may have to spend several hours online responding to inquiries, but it's worth it.

2. Conduct Market Research

It's important to know your target market before you start selling. Conduct a market research to understand your commercial environment. Find out whether there are any entry barriers.

Know the standards and specifications of your target market to increase your profits. Estimate the size of the market, and know your major competitors. If you conclude that you don't have any competitors, you might have done your research wrong.

It's a good idea to offer something that your local competitors don't. A little but serious research can help you identify and exploit the opportunities present in the market.

You can find most of the information online. Reading marketing books can also provide some helpful insights. Consider building up a team of co-workers so different members can specialize in different fields to complement one another.

3. Create a Package

The look of your product can make all the difference between success and failure. However good your product is, you will struggle to sell it without good packaging and marketing.

Have attractive packaging for your product, and come up with special offers. Try to make your package notably different from your competitors. Remember that originality is an essential aspect of packaging.

4. Adjust to the Foreign Market

Position your product according to the demand of the foreign market. Your offering should meet the expectations of your customers. You may have to create special products for different countries. It may mean making additional investment, but it can be an important factor contributing to your success. You will also need to adapt your business policies to go with the regulations of the new market.

5. Stay Connected With Your Customers

In the end, your financial success depends upon your customers. Hence, you must be aware of their expectations and preferences. Keeping in touch with your customers is the best way to understand their requirements.

Consider adding a chat application on your website. Include your personal information such as email, address, and phone number. You may want to adjust the information depending upon your method of communication.

It's a good idea to visit your customers regularly, or at least connect virtually through Skype calls. Personalize your relationship with your customers; you should be yielding and compromising when required.

6. Make Necessary Investments

  • You will need money to make more money.
  • You will have to invest in quality products to grow your sales.
  • You will also need to invest in promotion and advertisement.
  • Have necessary allocations in your budget for different types of investments.
  • Be sure to update and fine-tune your budget every month.
  • You should always be on the lookout for investment opportunities to develop and strengthen your business.
  • Make use of cost-effective tools and programs for lead generation.
  • Consider placing ads on search engines (Google, Bing, etc.) and social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.).

7. Participate in Trade Shows

It's a good way to get known to international customers, especially if your product is difficult to sell or such that the customers need to see it before buying.

8. Know Your Product

  • Know your product well. Respond to customer inquiries swiftly and accurately.
  • Give information about your production facilities, capacity, product quality, price, and shipping.
  • In case of a service, provide information such as your field of expertise, portfolio, clients served, fee structure, turnaround time, etc.

If you need help with an import export business plan, you can post your legal need on UpCounsel's marketplace. UpCounsel accepts only the top 5 percent of lawyers to its site. Lawyers on UpCounsel come from law schools such as Harvard Law and Yale Law and average 14 years of legal experience, including work with or on behalf of companies like Google, Menlo Ventures, and Airbnb.

Hire the top business lawyers and save up to 60% on legal fees

Content Approved by UpCounsel

  • Import Export Business License
  • What Is Export Sales Contract
  • Import Licensing
  • Business Plan for New Company
  • Do It Yourself Business Plan
  • How to Start an Online Business: Step-by-Step Guide
  • How to Start a Business: A Comprehensive Guide for Entrepreneurs
  • How Does a Corporation Grow
  • Market Analysis: Everything You Need To Know
  • IT Company Business Plan

Upmetrics AI Assistant: Simplifying Business Planning through AI-Powered Insights. Learn How

Upmetrics

Business Planning

  • Financial Forecasting

AI Assistance

See how upmetrics works  →, strategic planning, entrepreneurs & small business, accelerators & incubators, business consultants & advisors, educators & business schools, students & scholars.

  • Sample Plans

Business Plan Course

Small business tools.

  • Strategic Canvas Templates

E-books, Guides & More

  • WHY UPMETRICS?

Customers Success Stories

  • Business Plan Builder
  • Canvas Modeling
  • Product Tour
  • Business Consultants and Advisors
  • Entrepreneurs And Small Businesses
  • Accelerators & Incubators
  • Educators & Business Schools
  • Students & Scholars
  • Sample Business Plans
  • business plan course
  • E-Books, Guides & More
  • Success Stories

How to Start an Import Export Business in 9 Easy Steps

Plan Template thumb

Free How to Write an Import Export Business Plan + Free Template Template

Matthew Khalili

16 Min Read

start an import export business

The import and export game in the U.S. is skyrocketing! Government numbers tell us that in just December 2021, imports and exports jumped by a whopping $7 billion each. Americans are craving new and exciting products from all corners of the globe.

So, starting an import/export business might be a gold mine waiting to be discovered. But before you jump in, let’s unpack different types of “import” and “export” businesses, how to get your international business started in the USA, and if it’s really the profitable venture you imagine.

Types of Import Export Businesses

Importers and exporters” – that’s the primary cast of characters in the international market trade. There are more exciting players, each with their role in global trade. Let’s meet the crew:

Import Export Merchants

These independent people don’t stick to just one product or market. They either make or buy products and then sell them to other countries. This way of doing business can be risky, but you might earn more money.

Export Trading Company (ETC)

This is like being a go-between or a distributor. Instead of making their products, ETCs find foreign buyers for goods and then look for someone in their home country to send these goods abroad. Sometimes, they might even own the goods they’re exporting and make money through commission.

Export Management Company (EMC)

An EMC manages all the export stuff for a company. If a company in your country wants to sell its products in other countries, an EMC will take care of everything needed to make that happen. This includes finding people to sell the products, creating ads, and arranging for the products to be shipped.

Now that you’ve learned about the various types of business, let’s explore how to start an import export business in nine easy steps.

Steps to starting an Import-export business

  • Identify products to import or export
  • Explore shipping options
  • Source your suppliers
  • Write an Import-export business plan
  • Register your business
  • Obtain necessary licenses & permits
  • Figure out financing
  • Get a business insurance
  • Market your business

1. Identify products to import or export

Starting a successful import-export business means determining what products or services you want to trade.

You need to look into different items and industries to find out what’s in demand worldwide and see if importing or exporting them is practical.

Here’s how you can find out:

Learn What Customers Want

You can ask people directly through surveys or group discussions. Look at what’s selling well in foreign markets by checking sales data and market reports. Also, watch social media and import-export industry websites to stay updated on trends and what people like.

Doing this makes you more likely to sell products that people will want to buy.

Is the Product a Good Fit? After conducting market research, consider whether your export products will work well. This means looking at things like how much they’ll cost to make and send, how unique they are, and how much people need or want them.

Check Out Your Competitors

You need to know what your competitors are offering to pick the right products.

  • Look at their prices and what their customers are saying. Websites like Alibaba can give you a good idea of global prices.
  • Watch their ads and marketing to see how they’re selling their products.

Learning from your competitors can show you what might work or not in your target markets, helping you choose profitable products.

Costs and Profits

Consider the costs of making and shipping your products, including extra expenses like taxes. Then, think about how much profit you could make. A simple way to compare costs and profits is to use a spreadsheet.

Rules for Your Products

Before you start exporting or importing, know the rules for the products you want to send. This includes safety certifications, what needs to be on labels, and any export restrictions.

Different countries have different requirements for things like safety and environmental impact. Know these rules for the countries you’re targeting.

How you label and package your products can also vary by country. Ensure you know things like language requirements and what information must be on the label.

Now that you know your product, it’s time to make sure it will make money. You can look at the following studies:

  • GlobalEdge’s Market Potential Index (MPI): This study by Michigan State University has been done since 1996. It looks at how good different countries are for business each year and ranks them from 1 to 100.
  • International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) : This group helps trade and teaches businesses how to do things better.
  • U.S. Census Bureau, Foreign Trade : This is the official place for U.S. export and import numbers. They also make sure exports follow the rules.
  • Local Government Officials and Websites: You can also talk to local Commerce Departments for insights on what products and services are popular or needed in your area.

2. Explore shipping options

This step can be complex because there’s a lot to think about. You must decide how to ship your products – by land, sea, or air. You also have to figure out the right way to package them for shipping.

Plus, you need to plan how to store them so they’re easy to get to and arrange transport to and from places.

It’s usually a smart move to hire a global freight forwarder for any import/export business. They act like a shipping agent, taking a big load off your shoulders.

You tell them about your business and what you want to do with your products, and they handle the shipping plans, insurance, and often the paperwork like licenses, permits, taxes, and limits for trading in another country. This can make starting an import/export business much less stressful.

3. Source your suppliers

Once you’ve chosen a product to trade internationally, your next step is to find a local maker or supplier who can work well with you. Here’s how to do it:

Start by searching on Google for suppliers or makers of the product you’re interested in. If you want to buy from local sources, look for local wholesalers and distributors.

Remember, buying directly from foreign manufacturers or their agents usually gives you better prices than local sources. Once you find a supplier’s website, go to their “Contact Us” page and send them your questions.

Online Marketplaces

Many online marketplaces can help you find suppliers. One of the biggest is Alibaba, which is based in China and is great for finding Asian products. Global Sources, D.H. Gate, and All.Biz are also well-known if you’re looking for other options.

Use Import/Export Port Data

Look for suppliers and makers by getting import/export data from companies that sell this information. Companies like IHS Piers gather data from ports worldwide and sell it.

This data might not have direct contact info, so you should look up suppliers on Google.

Visit Trade Shows

Despite the shift to online business, meeting suppliers and seeing the products yourself can be valuable.

Trade shows are great for this, especially for high-tech or expensive products. Meeting sellers in person can build trust and add much to your business relationship.

4. Write an Import-export business plan

An Import-export business plan lets you understand the facts, limits, and goals of selling internationally. You can use it to set clear targets, plan when to do things, and track your progress. It can also help your team stay focused on reaching these goals.

A written plan outlines the steps you must take to commit to exporting. Without a plan, you might miss opportunities to grow your business beyond your country.

Usually, a business plan has parts like:

  • A quick summary
  • Info about your company
  • Market Research
  • Details about your products or services
  • How you’ll market and sell
  • Predictions for money coming in and going out
  • Funding Request

Not very good at writing? Need help with your plan?

Write your business plan 10X faster with Upmetrics AI

Plans starting from $7/month

import business business plan

5. Register your business

After deciding on your product and suppliers, it’s time to make your import-export business official!

Here’s how you can do that:

Step 1: business registration:

Think of this as getting your official passport for your global target market. It makes your business legit and separate from you personally, which is suitable for legal purposes and taxes.

Most small import-export companies in the U.S. need to head to their state or local government office and tell them:

  • Your business name
  • Where your international trade H.Q. is located
  • Who’s in charge (you, your partner, or your LLC crew)
  • Your unique “Doing Business As” name, if you have one

Step 2: Pick your team structure:

Do you want to start your import export business solo, grab a partner, or have whole LLC members? This choice affects your taxes, money, and paperwork. Conduct market research and find what fits your goals best.

Step 3: Get your I.D. numbers:

  • CIN: This is like your international trade license. It lets the Department of Commerce track your trades across borders. You can quickly get it on their website.
  • EIN: This is your business tax I.D., like a social security number for your company. Get it online, by mail, or fax from the IRS.

If you want to bring products from other countries into the U.S., you must register with Customs and Border Protection. This makes you an Importer of Record (IOR) .

As an IOR, you ensure all the import rules for your products are followed. This includes filling out customs forms, paying duties and tariffs, and other tasks.

To be an IOR, you must fill out the Importer Identity Form, also known as CBP Form 5106.

6. Obtain necessary licenses & permits

Licenses and permits are the gatekeepers of the import/export world. The good news is most products in the U.S. don’t need them!

Here’s what you need to know about these licenses:

Importing Licenses

CBP doesn’t have a complete list of “import license needed” items, but they have some guidelines . Some special items do need licenses, which include:

  • Dairy products
  • Radioactive materials
  • Wildlife and pets
  • Biological Drugs
  • Biological Materials and Vectors

If you’re importing one of these, double-check with CBP before your shipment gets stuck at the border.

Exporting Licenses

It’s your job to determine if your item needs a license to leave the country—usually, the Bureau of Industry and Security or the U.S. Department of State handles these permits.

So, how do you know if you need a license?

Four things matter:

  • The item itself
  • Where it’s going
  • What is it used for
  • Who’s getting it

In this case, the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) is your handbook for export licenses. Think of it like a map showing which items need permission to leave. It lists stuff under the Commerce Control List (CCL) in 10 categories, like nuclear materials, chemicals, computers, and airplanes.

However, not everything on the CCL needs a license. If your item isn’t listed, it’s probably EAR99 – mostly license-free. But be careful; some EAR99 products still need permission.

You can also find out if your product needs an export license by looking at its Export Control Classification Number (ECCN).

Here are three ways to find the ECCN

  • Check it yourself using the CCL
  • Ask your supplier
  • Request it from the Bureau of Industry and Security.

7. Figure out financing

Starting an import/export business is exciting, but it takes some real money to get going. The good news? You can start small, even from home, without much inventory or employees. Starting an export-import business from your house would cost around $5000 to $25000.

But if your import export business takes off and you need more fuel, here are some options:

Export-Import Bank: They help American import export businesses like yours by offering loans, guarantees, and insurance.

SBA Export Loan Programs : The Small Business Administration has special programs to help you develop and grow your exports. They offer loans for different stages, from starting up to expanding.

Here are three loans that they offer:

  • Export Express Program: Up to $500,000 for inventory, receivables, and development activities.
  • International Trade Loan Program: Grow or expand your exports or fight against import competition.
  • Export Working Capital Program: Get working capital for production, receivables, inventory, or even standby letters of credit.
  • Import/Export Line of Credit: This is a flexible credit card for your import/export needs, helping you manage cash flow and pay suppliers or customers over time.
  • Ex-Im Working Capital Guarantee Program: Need help before you even start exporting? This program can secure financing for things like raw materials and equipment for your export goods.

8. Get a business insurance

Shipping products across borders can be risky! But fear not; import-export business insurance is here to save the day. It’s like a superhero cape for your goods, protecting them from financial harm.

Here’s what you need to know:

Export Credit Insurance: Worried buyers won’t pay? This covers you if they skip out, reimbursing 80-90% of the loss.

Marine Insurance: Covers your goods from the moment they leave the supplier until they reach your buyer, no matter where they travel (not just the ocean!).

Political Risk Insurance: If you’re doing import export business in shaky countries, this insurance shields you from government seizures, payment delays, and even wars or riots.

International Product Liability: Even if you do your market research, sometimes goods get rejected at customs. This covers you if regulations change or your product doesn’t meet the mark.

Remember, research and preparation are essential, even with insurance. But with these options in your arsenal, you can trade internationally with more confidence and peace of mind!

9. Market your import export business

In your job as an international trader, your main goal is to sell yourself, your company, and the products you offer. You have to get companies to trust you to sell their products in foreign countries (export) or to bring in products from abroad to sell here (import).

The better you do in either exporting or importing, the easier it gets to do well in the other. Say you help a company sell many products in overseas markets; you can show that success to other companies to get more business.

Many import-export businesses don’t export or import, even though it could earn them more money. Your job is to find these companies and persuade them to let you help them sell abroad.

Before you reach out to a company, do your homework:

  • Find out what products are hot in the U.S. Think about stuff you use or things certain groups love.
  • Are these products also wanted in your target market countries?
  • If they’re not popular, could they be if people knew about them?
  • Who makes these products?
  • How much does selling them, both here and in the target countries, cost?

Using this info, you can contact companies with your sales pitch through direct-mail campaigns.

Direct-Mail Campaigns

Pick a company that makes one of the products you’ve looked into. Find the right person to talk to, like their president or sales manager.

Your letter should explain:

  • Who you are and what your company does.
  • How exporting or importing could benefit them.
  • Why is your company the best choice for this?

You have contacts with foreign distributors ready to sell their products.

Finish the letter by asking for a meeting. Keep sending out letters to other companies until you’ve covered your list.

Wait a week or two, then follow up with a phone call to request a meeting.

Cold-calling

You can also try calling companies directly. It might save money, but it’s tougher to nail.

Before you call, plan out what you want to say. You can even write a script but don’t stick to it too rigidly.

Be ready for rejections. It’s all part of the job.

Build an SEO-friendly website

Imagine this: someone searches for your products, and your website appears first. That’s what SEO can do. Make your website more accessible, and you’ll attract more customers.

Social media accounts

Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. They’re great for connecting with potential customers, showing off your products, and building trust.

You can post interesting stuff, answer questions, and join industry chats. People will start seeing you as the expert.

Work with local pros

Team up with local agents in the countries you’re targeting. They know the local scene, language, and rules, helping you avoid mistakes.

Let your happy customers speak for you

Satisfied customers are like free salespeople. Ask them for referrals and testimonials, and put these on your website and social media.

The import export business brings products from one place to another, meets people’s desires, and makes money. Have you ever wondered how to get stuff that’s made far away? Or how do you share something cool with people in other countries while ensuring it’s suitable for everyone involved, from the makers to the transporters?

If you’re thinking about this, don’t worry about how big the task seems. With the proper research, a solid import-export business plan, and paperwork, you can start your own import-export business and make it work.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks, AI-assistance, and automatic financials make it easy.

crossline

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the import-export business profitable.

Like any business, making money in import-export depends on a few things. Your prices, how much it costs to make and ship products, and how big you can grow your business all matter for your profits.

People starting in import-export often make around $80,000 . If things go well, you might make hundreds of thousands; a few people even make millions.

How Much Should You Charge for Imports and Exports?

Your prices will depend on what you’re selling and the costs of making and shipping them. A standard pricing strategy is to add 10 to 15 percent to your costs.

How to Get an Import-Export License?

After making a business plan, check if you need any import-export licenses.

Most products coming into the U.S. don’t need an import export license. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has guidelines for what requires a permit.

What Does It Cost to Start an Import-Export Business from Home?

Startup costs can vary. Usually, you spend between $5,000 – $7,000. Here’s a rough breakdown:

  • Registering an import export business costs around $300 and can vary by state.
  • Setting up phone, internet, and a website: Plan for ongoing costs of about $250-300.
  • Buying your first products: Expect to use 17% – 25% of your budget.

What's the Best Business for Import-Export?

Based on U.S. Census Bureau data , the top imports in 2020-21 were:

  • Computers and electronics
  • Transportation equipment
  • Non-electrical machinery
  • Electrical equipment and appliances

The top exports were:

  • Oil and gas

About the Author

import business business plan

Matthew Khalili is an experienced business planning expert and the founder of The Plan Writers. With over a decade of experience in the field, he has helped numerous entrepreneurs in creating investor-ready pitch decks and business plans. Matt has enabled 5000+ startups to raise over $1 billion through his business plan, market research, and financial modeling services. Read more

Upmetrics logo

Reach Your Goals with Accurate Planning

No Risk – Cancel at Any Time – 15 Day Money Back Guarantee

trustpilot reviews

Popular Templates

Preview of the downloaded sample plan asset

Free Download

Import Export Business Plan Template

Download this free import export business plan template, with pre-filled examples, to create your own plan..

Or plan with professional support in LivePlan. Save 50% today

Available formats:

Word Icon

What you get with this template

A complete business plan.

Text and financials are already filled out and ready for you to update.

  • SBA-lender approved format

Your plan is formatted the way lenders and investors expect.

Edit to your needs

Download as a Word document and edit your business plan right away.

  • Detailed instructions

Features clear and simple instructions from expert business plan writers.

Money-Back Guarantee

All 100% free. We're here to help you succeed in business, no strings attached.

Get the most out of your business plan example

Follow these tips to quickly develop a working business plan from this sample.

1. Don't worry about finding an exact match

We have over 550 sample business plan templates . So, make sure the plan is a close match, but don't get hung up on the details.

Your business is unique and will differ from any example or template you come across. So, use this example as a starting point and customize it to your needs.

2. Remember it's just an example

Our sample business plans are examples of what one business owner did. That doesn't make them perfect or require you to cram your business idea to fit the plan structure.

Use the information, financials, and formatting for inspiration. It will speed up and guide the plan writing process.

3. Know why you're writing a business plan

To create a plan that fits your needs , you need to know what you intend to do with it.

Are you planning to use your plan to apply for a loan or pitch to investors? Then it's worth following the format from your chosen sample plan to ensure you cover all necessary information.

But, if you don't plan to share your plan with anyone outside of your business—you likely don't need everything.

LivePlan Logo

See why 1.2 million entrepreneurs have written their business plans with LivePlan

More business planning resources

Business Plan Template example

Business Plan Template

Woman climbing mountain

How to Write a Business Plan

Variety of books

How to Start a Business With No Money

Stacks of boxes

Simple Business Plan Outline

Group of business people

How to Write a Business Plan for Investors

Man stacking bricks

How to Create a Business Plan Presentation

Variety of icons

10 Qualities of a Good Business Plan

Industrial building

Industry Business Planning Guides

Download your template now

Need to validate your idea, secure funding, or grow your business this template is for you..

  • Fill-in-the-blank simplicity
  • Expert tips & tricks

We care about your privacy. See our privacy policy .

Not ready to download right now? We'll email you the link so you can download it whenever you're ready.

Download as Docx

Download as PDF

LivePlan on a computer

Finish your business plan with confidence

Step-by-step guidance and world-class support from the #1 business planning software

LivePlan pitch example

Discover the world’s #1 plan building software

import business business plan

Learn how to Start import-export business of your own!

  • OUR COURSES
  • FIND ME THE BUYERS

How to make export-import business plan

import business business plan

If you intend to start or run an import-export business by yourself, you must plan your business. A good export-import business plan will not only determine the success of your business but also helps you maintain focus after success.

Making an export-import business plan is not as difficult as you think. It includes 2 main phases. To make a completed plan, first, you need to know the industry in which you are involved, this means comprehensive research, analyze and conclusions making.

Secondly, you need to determine what to accomplish with your plan (goals) and how you will execute that plan. Finally, you should draft an export-import business plan that is concise, complete, and comprehensive.

We will explore in detail, the step by step planning process below. But first, we will learn what an export-import business plan is and why do we need it in our export-import business.

1. What is an export-import business plan

A business plan is an important management tool for export-import companies, managers and entrepreneurs. It includes all information, strategies, and tactics for achieving the company goals.

It gives the business a clear orientation on import and export business activities and shows where to put efforts to. Export-import business plan can be created after doing the research and analysis of the industry, competitors, customers, juridical environment, political environment, and other aspects that directly or indirectly have an effect on your business.

Even if you have a small export-import business or you operate as an export-import agent , you should also have your own plan.

So why do you need an export-import business plan?

The export-import business plan helps you make the right decisions in your business and helps you quickly grasp the overall process. It gives you goals and directions, where you are going.

It will save you time and money. Business plan has been done, based on the previous analysis of the relevant factors and conditions, this ensures, the decisions you make in your business are optimal. Those, who are making decisions blindly are risking to make costly mistakes.

A business plan for export-import business can be an important tool, to get you financing. Sometimes investors, partners and potential clients will assess the quality of your business through a complete plan, so it’s important to seriously develop a smart, perfect plan.

Analyze is always part of the business planning. Sometimes, doing the analysis for your planned export-import business can turn out, that the originally planned business idea is economically not viable. In this case, a business plan or planning process can save you from future possible losses.

To make a complete plan, let’s first learn about the content of the export-import business plan.

2. The content of the export-import business plan

1. project summary.

The project summary can act as an independent document, including the highlights of your business plan. In fact, many investors only ask to see a project summary when they are evaluating your business.

In the business plan summary, only the most important elements should be highlighted. Such as company main purpose/mission, main activities, products,  projected financial goals and figures, including the investment needs. Also, the main competitive advantage and UPS (unique selling point) should be pointed out there.

TIP : In the summary, at the top of the page, right below your export- import business name, write a sentence about your business. The sentence about what business you are going to do. This can be a slogan or sentence that summarizes the export- import business activities and goals of what you are planning to achieve.

NB! The summary of the export/import business plan should be made as the last part!

2. Company introduction

In this section, you present the information such as business registration information, export-import business name , business structure, organogram, types of licenses, the address of the office (including rent information and equipment), website address , and social media channels, etc.

Also, it is important (for investors especially) to have information about the founder(s) and key persons in the company. In your export import business plan, you can include the CV,s of the key persons.

3. Products and services description

The export-import business is a product-centric business. That’s why this is the core part of a business. You need to mention exactly what products and/or services you are going to import and/or export or otherwise deal with.

Product descriptions should include

  • Product specification and the description of its usages.
  • What is special about your product or service.
  • W hich are the differences and unique selling points compared to the competitor’s products in the market?
  • The selling prices on the market, which you are targeting and how these will be in the next 5 years.
  • What are the purchasing or manufacturing prices for these products and how these will be in the next 5 years?
  • Predictions for supply and demand relationship in the future.
  • Other aspects, factors regarding your products ( example the quality standards).

4. Marketing plan

This is a very important part of the export – import business plan. Probably most important, as it will generate sales for your exim business .

If you are working with a team, the marketing plan will help clarify the goals and common points.

When you have a specific product, you need to plan marketing, promotion, distribution, shipping method, and sales to draw customers for that product.

The import export business marketing plan will be about the activities, which will help to sell products to domestic and oversea markets

Which channels will you use to boost your product sales? You have to describe, how to adapt your product to each market-specific demand. How to reach potential clients? What is the competitive advantage, you are pointing out when marketing your product(s)?

Read also : How to find international buyers for your goods.

5. Analyze the market and competitors

This part and the conclusions you are getting out from here will be a foundation for your export-import business marketing plan. A comprehensive analysis of the market, industry, competitors is needed, including also not-direct stakeholders in the export- import industry, which includes regulators and government.

This section will help you understand all the surrounding elements: the market you are targeting, the target country, your target audience, your competitors, before starting exporting/importing the products.

6. Financial draft

Point out the outstanding aspects of your financial plan, including a chart that shows your expected revenue, expenses and profits and investment needs. What is your next 5-year investment plan (where you will invest), what government fees are required, when they are spent, when they are collected, etc. All this information should be included in a financial plan.

You can also use this part, to explain more about your export-import business model to your clients, partners or investors, if there is a need.

When estimating the growth of your export-import business, your assumptions should be based on comprehensive industry research, combined with a competitive situation analyze. Very important is to analyze and bring out, how quickly your export/import business can produce positive cash flow and when you will reach the break-even point.

If you have difficulty drafting financial statements for at least 5 years, you can ask a qualified professional or knowledgeable person do help you.

The management of cash flow in business is very important. If you do not know the reasonable allocation, you will not offset the loss.

Suggested reading : Case study- importing from China and selling to Europe.

7. Management plan

In export-import business plan, the management plan should also include risk management plan.

You need to think carefully about the processes of your export-import business. Write as many details as possible, the tasks to be done during the day, week or month and year.

Bringing out all the processes, operations and related resources in the business and organizing these in an optimal way, is the goal of the management plan.

Especially, put attention to risk management as a part of the management plan.

Risks and possible failures in the business are all related to the processes of your business. In this part, you should assess the risks and develop a risk management strategy to ensure that during the execution, the business has the lowest error margin possible.

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • What are critical operations, processes in your business?
  • What exactly are the risks, dangers?
  • How much possible damage/loss each realized-risk can cause to you?
  • Are there any tasks that need to be checked?
  • Who conducts the inspection?
  • Which checkpoints are important?
  • What to do, if the defect/problem occurs?

8. Your offering/proposal

The goal of a proposal is to get support for the project you are working on by notifying the appropriate people, such as investors, bankers, government officials. Your ideas or suggestions are more likely to be approved if you know how to communicate and explain your business plan clearly and concisely.

Also prepare clear answers for the possible questions, which may arise.

Describe the level of investment you want and the purpose of using the capital. If you are exporting very specific products, please indicate the individual unit price of each product, packaging requirements, shipping methods.

9. Appendix

In this section, you can add other necessary information. It can be a note, contacts, chart, contracts, bills, etc. Business documentation , procedures descriptions.

Previous was a common content, included in business plan documents, no matter is this import/export business or some other type of business. However, you no need to use the same structure or chapters, most important is, the plan must focus on the most important elements, fields, factors relevant to the success of the business idea.

Previous was a suggested formal structure of the business plan, now, we will give a simple but effective way, to prepare your own international business plan.

3. The 5 Steps to make an export-import business plan

The majority of entrepreneurs are not business professionals with advanced degrees, but they rather accumulate knowledge, experience and good habits in the process of working.

You are the same as them, so don’t worry if you can’t create a perfect business plan yet.

If you are knowledgeable enough about your export-import business and passionate about it, writing a business plan will not be as difficult as you think.

In fact, you can start with a simple business plan on a single sheet of paper like a rough outline, and then use that to go deeper and wider. Also don’t go too wide, only cover the aspect relevant for your export-import business.

In the following, we show you a simple process, how to make the export – import business plan from scratch in the easiest way. This part shows you, what activities, steps you shall do. After doing these steps, you can write a good business plan.

Step 1: Find your export- import business idea(s)

Let’s say, you want to start export/import business, but you do not have ideas yet about the business you want to start.

The first step is to write down your business ideas .

How do you begin the process of ideation? First, take out a piece of paper and think about 5-7 strengths, experiences and talents of your personal life.

Then list what you think you can or cannot /do not like to do. Maybe you are very good at marketing but you do not like to speak publicly. Maybe you have experience in some sort of industry, manufacturing field and you know very well some kinds of products, which could have a demand in the international markets.

The more you think about your personal experiences, expertise, strengths, and weaknesses, the more you can generate possible business ideas.

Finally, you should end up with a list of possible business ideas.

Now, discuss the most promising ones with your colleagues, and if some are very special ideas, talk to your relatives and closest friends too. Ask their opinions related to your ideas.

Don’t be disappointed or angry, if someone thinks your ideas are not good.

Remember, critics is very important and helps to improve and see things on the different angle.

Don’t overlook ideas that have been tested over time. Trendy businesses often go through different stages. Sometimes the idea of ​​ traditional business is also a good idea because people haven’t applied it for a long time.

At the end of this step, you should select some most promising nuggets for further investigation.

Step 2: Do your research for selected business ideas

Now, deep into the research of your selected business idea(s). You need to find out the markets you are targeting, how many competitors are, who they are, how big they are. How big is the demand for your product(s) or services, is the demand stable, increasing or decreasing. Same questions for the supply side.

The main client is the group that will directly consume your export-import company’s products and services. Determine exactly who you will serve so that you have the appropriate direction.

You as an entrepreneur should make sure exactly, why your customers need your products and what factors and features are most important for them, regarding your products. We advise making real-life surveys or/and interviews with your future clients.

Analyzing and researching only the market is not enough. You shall analyze also juridical environment, political environment, the industry outlook. All the fields, affecting your export-import business idea somehow, should be counted into the research!

To get more statistical information about your research field, you can access government websites, international organizations ( World Bank , Asian Development Bank, United Nations), and bilateral donors, export-import reports, industry reports, which have lots of useful information for you.

Information-pages of international, non-governmental organizations related to business development may also have useful information for you.

During your business idea research you should get the answers:

  • Should we invest in this product/market?
  • How is it best to enter into this market/sector?
  • Is the market big and attractive?
  • Is the market growth in the right direction?
  • What is the future outlook for this market after 5 years?

On the one hand, you collect the information about your potential export-import business idea from reports, customers, industry reports, government development programs, etc. Secondly, you should also get the financial statements of the last few years of some of the competitors of yours.

Seeing your competitor’s data and financial results can give you an idea, what is possible in your planned business sector.

Because analytical plans are often part of an export-import business plan and designed to show how the company can maximize profits, the this part of the plan will be an important part.

Read also : India’s top exported products

Step 3: Write your goals and targets to achieve

After you have concluded the research of your business idea and found it to be rewarding, it is time to go further with setting goals.

If you are not the first time in business, you can set new export-import business goals by reviewing the successes, failures, and memorable events in the past. Take time to consider what you have done, the things that have not been done.

An effective method is to score your goals according to the timelines. Also, don’t forget the priority numbers of the goals. Don’t just write down general goals, remember to be as clear and specific as possible.

Answering the following example questions will give you more ideas to outline your goal:

  • To what market(s) is the goal to expand your export-import business?
  • What knowledge do I have about this market?
  • Who can assist me in the implementation plan?
  • The expected volume of sales at first year?
  • How much will be the profit at first year?
  • About how many clients will you get?
  • How you will reach these clients?
  • The amount of the investment I need to start-up?

The more information you have on your goals, the more likely you’ll be to succeed. Always be clear between the goal and the important resources to achieve it.

Similarly, we have created a guide&resources for exporters/importers and online-sellers. From there, first, you will find an action plan and secondly the needed resources in each step for your export/import business. Check it out ( HERE ).

Step 4: Write specific export-import business strategies

With certain goals, you need to develop a specific strategy for each goal. Different key business fields: sales/marketing, financing, management, production, each should have their own goals, thats why each should have their own strategies.

One very important field is marketing. What are the communication and marketing channels, how to apply for marketing programs? How your business find get and keep customers?

The same important is the strategy for investments. How long does the application last? How much capital is needed? About how many sources of business capital are needed? What kind of organization do you need to implement that plan?

You should set goals for each of your business fields, then work out strategies and tactics to achieve these goals. Finally, based on the goals and strategies of the field, you can put together complete goals and strategies for the whole organization/business.

Step 5: Double-check and take action:

Once you have set specific goals and strategies, it’s time for you to put your plans into action.

Also, do not forget to regularly monitor the always-changing market conditions, to have certain updates to your business plan, if it is needed.

Please make sure you do the full research and check carefully your field, before closing the plan and starting the execution of the business plan.

Based on our experiences, making a business plan means 80% of the research, data collection, making conclusions and only 20% of actual concluding/writing the business plan. So, research is most important and how well you research and analyze, determines the value of your export-import business plan.

To help you on your journey, we have the following resources for you:

  • Export-import business training and programs .
  • Guide+resources for exporters-importers and online sellers.

We wish you luck!

This website is an online resource for everyone who is interested in import-export business. Especially is this website for people who wish to start their own import-export business.

Enroll in our popular FREE course about how to get started in export-import nowadays. Check out → export/import business courses

  • How to start export-import business in or with Morocco April 20, 2023
  • Increase Your Export Sales: Key Points for Expanding Business Internationally April 20, 2023
  • How to start an export-import business in or with Korea August 8, 2022

How to Develop an Import and Export Business Plan

  • Import/Export Business
  • Retail Small Business
  • Restauranting
  • Real Estate
  • Nonprofit Organizations
  • Freelancing & Consulting
  • Food & Beverage
  • Event Planning
  • Construction
  • Operations & Success
  • Becoming an Owner

Laurel Delaney is the founder and president of Global Trade Source, Ltd. She is also the author of three books on exporting.

An import/export business plan is important for defining your company's present status and internal goals and commitment, but it is also required if you plan to measure results.

Where do you start? Begin by adopting the skills, interests, and resources you already have. Then, learn about importing/exporting the hard way—by doing it—but first, you must have the basics in place: time, nerve, imagination, capital, energy, knowledge, and determination. If you have these, you're halfway up the hill. If you want to reach the top, you should implement the following action plan. 

Export Business Plan Sample

  • Launch a website or blog that provides great content about your product or service offerings! How else will cross-border customers and suppliers find you?
  • Conduct detailed market research (study business climate) to determine if there is a need for your product or service. This measure will also alert you to possible barriers to entering your target market.
  • Package your product or service so one can see that yours is notably different from that of others. If you think there are no competitors, you didn't research enough. Keep digging.
  • Size your product or service according to the needs of the foreign market. In other words, listen to your customers! If all your customers tell you your offering is too large, then size it to their liking. If you give too many choices, it can also be confusing.
  • Size the market you are entering. Any major advertising agency or market research company in the foreign country where you wish to do business can make market predictions.
  • Participate in industry-wide trade shows. This is a uniquely effective way to contact international customers, especially if you have a difficult product to sell or a product that a customer needs to actually see. Look for a listing of exhibitions held in markets worldwide.
  • Know the basics about your product or service when customers inquire and respond swiftly with accurate answers. If it's a product, inform the customer about production capacities, production facilities, product quality, supply chain timing, packaging, transportation, and price. If it's a service, describe your area of special expertise (for example, a global marketing communications program), clients served, turn-around time, applicable fees, credentials, and any other important background information.
  • Visit customers regularly in person, who are involved in your business transactions or at the very least, conduct Skype calls to connect virtually. Personalize your relationships and be prepared to yield and compromise when needed.
  • Capitalize on cost-effective sales lead generation programs. Generating sales leads is a challenge for most businesses, but it becomes even more complicated when you are trying to win new business globally due to language, customs, and cultural differences that also must be taken into account. If you have an opportunity to place ads on several different social media and networking forums (Facebook, Google+ or Linked In) that effectively reach your target market, you should consider taking advantage of it. Same holds true for search engine (Google and Bing) ads. These programs are cost effective and they do the global marketing work for you.

Remember, a plan is just a plan. It is your and your team's responsibility to execute the plan and, at the same time, promote your efforts . 

  • 10 Questions You Need to Answer to Create a Powerful Marketing Plan
  • What Is a Marketing Plan?
  • Building a Marketing Strategy for Your Business
  • How to Develop the Marketing Strategy for Your Home Business
  • Marketing Costs for a Retail Start-Up
  • Advantages and Disadvantages of Global Strategic Alliances
  • How to Rebrand Your Business
  • How to Start an Event Planning Business
  • Important Marketing Skills That Employers Value
  • How To Start An Import/Export Business
  • Common Pitfalls With Importing and Exporting
  • How to Develop an Export Marketing Plan
  • Direct Exporting Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Pricing Your Product For Import and Export Markets
  • Bringing Your Franchise Concept to the United States
  • Websites to Help Build an Import/Export Business
  • Business Plan for Investors
  • Bank/SBA Business Plan
  • Operational/Strategic Planning Services
  • L1 Visa Business Plan
  • E1 Treaty Trader Visa Business Plan
  • E2 Treaty Investor Visa Business Plan
  • EB-1 Business Plan
  • EB-2 NIW Business Plan
  • EB-5 Business Plan
  • Innovator Founder Visa Business Plan
  • Start-Up Visa Business Plan
  • Expansion Worker Visa Business Plan
  • Manitoba MPNP Visa Business Plan
  • Nova Scotia NSNP Visa Business Plan
  • British Columbia BC PNP Visa Business Plan
  • Self-Employed Visa Business Plan
  • OINP Entrepreneur Stream Business Plan
  • LMIA Owner Operator Business Plan
  • ICT Work Permit Business Plan
  • LMIA Mobility Program – C11 Entrepreneur Business Plan
  • USMCA (ex-NAFTA) Business Plan
  • Franchise Business Plan
  • Landlord business plan
  • Nonprofit Start-Up Business Plan
  • USDA Business Plan
  • Cannabis business plan
  • Ecommerce business plan
  • Online boutique business plan
  • Mobile application business plan
  • Daycare business plan
  • Restaurant business plan
  • Food delivery business plan
  • Real estate business plan
  • Business Continuity Plan
  • Buy Side Due Diligence Services
  • ICO whitepaper
  • ICO consulting services
  • Confidential Information Memorandum
  • Private Placement Memorandum
  • Feasibility study
  • Fractional CFO
  • How it works
  • Business Plan Examples

Import and Export Business Plan Sample

APR.29, 2017

Import and Export Business Plan Sample

Open your import and export business to need treasure trove. To be frank, the advantages to run import and export business comprise the small investment, easy to operate companies and little requirement to establish the large organization to import or trading products. He needs to grow his emotional attachment with the importing and trading company. So, he must not suffer from stress and he’ll have to find better strategies, how to start your own import export business plans and tricks to boost up his business to import and trade products. Initially, any entrepreneur needs a new import export business plan with a draft financial budget report/chart to manage all expenses when he or she is interested to open a new business for product importing and exporting.

Are you dreaming to start an import export company online dynamically? You may take our help. OGScapital offers all kind of help regarding that. Be a global partner to live in sophisticated environment with a pack of innovative import/export business growth strategies to rebuild a solid infrastructure in the export industry. You have to be powerful and bold with resolution to become the topmost business tycoon in the import export industry. How to start an import export company must be a model for budding traders to emulate what you are preparing in your lab. OGSCapital representatives have all the knowledge required to create and enhance a wonderful strategy to accomplishing your aims & objectives. You are asked to fill a contact form if you need to initiate the process.

Be a Proactive Entrepreneur to Start Import/Export Business

You shouldn’t be a day dreamer with caboodle of fictitious ideas on how to start your own import export business. Before hiring any import/export financer to water the tree to flourish, chalk out import export business plans to manage the catch 22 situation in future. Online experts are there to train you how to start your own import export business without establishing a million dollar worth import/export start-up business portal. That’s why; novice traders must have fruitful guidance from experienced business proposers to know how to start an import/export business. Find the best places for exporting your products. Locate the developed areas where the number of affluent customers is considerably more than other parts of the world.

Right now, Canada, China, Germany, France, Singapore, Mexico and Taiwan are good clients to international entrepreneurs to ship different saleable products. There are also other parts in Caribbean Basin which lure import/trading entrepreneurs to start business with domestic clients. However, first of all, you need to do a vast compact marketing research to be familiar with the current trend in the product import trading market. What type of import/trading marketing platform do you require to expand the import export online business? How much money will you need to make the first down payment in the start-up import/export business? What sorts of products are to be exported by you? Import products at low prices and then resell these commodities in the regional market at handsome prices. So, you are a reseller with vast network to capture the domestic market.

Be a Proactive Entrepreneur to Start Import/Export Business

Major Points to Remember

Often it is considerably cost efficient to import products from other countries to have more profits. For instance, South Korean toys are cheaper. Taiwan made electronic goods are comparatively affordable to import. Right now, China has established its fame in the world market as one of the best exporters. It supplies light weight electronic devices at low prices. In the domestic market for business, folks are crazy to buy German beer, perfumes imported from Paris and furniture pieces from Scandinavian countries. So, invest your money in specific areas which must give you a new dynamic identity as a product import export entrepreneur. Basic knowledge is not enough for serious persons to dream of earning million dollars selling import/trading products.

He must have a import/export research lab for workout. He should have a prefect import/export business plan for business analysis. He should go through regular updates, start-up import/export business newsletters and information which must help him to become one of the promising overseas entrepreneurs in the market. Decide to find the best start-up market for investing. Buying products is not easy as there are many hindrances to endanger your trading company to a great extent. Probe and then take decision. Strategies are vehicles for you to steer clear of hurdles. These innovative start-up business management methods must enable you to keep in touch with the modern trend in the global market as well. You have lot of rivals to force you to design new start-up business management strategies. Therefore, decision should be made perfectly.

Well, for instance, local clothes or any female apparel will be outperformed by foreign brands. So, the trick needs to be opted for. To impress your import/export business customers, try to bring few rare brands from Egypt, France, Germany or Italy to test the likelihoods of local consumers. If it is cost effective for a trader to import clothes from Egypt, it will be fine for him to win favors of customers due to the stunt in the start-up business promotion. Similarly, still, people are lured by French perfume, German beverage, and Italian champagne including cheap electronic toys from Japan. Local competitors will not be able to cope with the goods made by Japan or South Korea. Estimate the product importing cost and then you must resell these products.

Is it profitable to import products from Japan? Find out the information and guidelines from experts? To be frank, the expansion of global import/trading market depends on the internet. It is a must for an international import/export entrepreneur to decorate the corporate office by including cloud based computers to innovate the business dealing process. Sometimes, it is not possible for a local trader. However, internet is now becoming accessible to even remote backcountries in developing countries. So obviously, the sea change in look of the start-up import/export business must be palpable. Think of tailoring new start-up import/export business plans for enriching product trading company.

Import and export merchant is also a good trader to deal with start-up trading market. However, comparing to EMC, this merchant buys products from domestic companies and then resells his products in the market. He has no connection with large EMC organizations or dealers. He is responsible to sell products for getting 100 percent profits without sharing revenues with other partners. However, he is a broker also. If you need support, you must find such a professional import export merchant for table work in upcoming days.

Basic Points on How to start your own import export business

  • Start your import export business in favorable location
  • Establish a corporate house for communication
  • Estimate budget to open an import-export business
  • Planning to spend hard earned dollars to construct the business on the platform
  • Opt for the new products which must be sold in the market
  • Use internet for wireless communication
  • Find better business clients
  • Try to win customers as many as you can to promote import/export business
  • Do the comprehensive research, comparison and workouts

Preliminary research is a must to have basic facts about the modern import export online business. Well, experts recommend few top sites to go through the content and reviews. A complete research paper guides a rookie how to start an import/export business for money earning. Top notch sites are also virtual tutoring platforms to lure

Target the Market for Product Importing Exporting

Most probably, you have to be a regular researcher to roam on the virtual field to see the changes in the world. What you are willing to sell or buy must not be left in turbid. Import products from a specific country which has the least obligation to trading products. Vice versa is also true in the case of d dealing with product trading. Different time zones do a matter for a domestic client in Asia when he goes to communicate with overseas customers in UK or USA.

Therefore, you must be well conversed with the whole process of overseas transaction. Money must be utilized properly. If you buy champagne or beer from Germany, the market must be well prepared for you to resell the bottles of wine at good prices. Your start-up logistic department must have a role to pack up and then do shipment to spoon feed domestic consumers after much hula -bulla with foreign importing/trading agencies. Locate the destination and then recycle your energy for more investment. Right now, pre-selling tricks, strategies, and free sample templates are productive to impress entrepreneurs to win in the rat race. Strategies are needed to outperform rivals.

Target the Market for Product Importing Exporting

Innovation in the Import and Export Merchandise

Change your attitude to correspond with overseas clients. Be modern, and computer literate. Use internet, mobile phone, tabs and cloud based infrastructures to innovate yourself. Today, international clients have lot of smart projects. You can also create a mobile application for your business, our experts will help you write a business plan for a mobile application . They have to be convinced about the product quality. Basically, foreign clients concentrate on following aspects before transactions.

  • Product quality must be considerably good
  • Good packaging
  • Better prices
  • Availability of discounts and promotional codes
  • Online paperless contract
  • Vigorous business clients
  • Least obligation to receive products at door steps
  • Less legal formalities
  • Better correspondence
  • Online customer care support round the clock

Reset the portal of your import/export business plan which must bloom in water and oxygen. That means, the durability, stability and compatibility of your companies must be excellent with eye catching credit ratings to put you in comfortable situation, otherwise you will have to create a business plan for a bank loan . Moreover, you must have the scope to open new business outlets, sister branches and companies in different countries. Channelize your thoughts and business management plans to subordinate offices for execution. Your employees must be reconnected with the main headquarters. It is smooth and easy import/export transaction to conduct. So innovation is needed in your trading company setting.

First of all, the place which you locate must not be unhygienic. The reconstruction, modification and technical advancement to upgrade the companies must be overwhelmingly good. Therefore, think of brining more innovative tools to reset the business strategies. Tailor new dynamic strategies to enhance the investment scope. The import/export field you find must be strong and resilient. The problems must be identified. Invest your resources in the business for faster growth. Now, if the distance between clients and you is wide, then the trouble to do transactions may be accelerated. Therefore, create much cool and acceptable business ambience to do regular tasks happily. An innovative business administration structure must have following features below

  • Upgraded documentation and communication structure
  • Fax machine
  • Wireless wi-fi
  • Data security systems
  • Online customer care units
  • Logistic department

Accept Innovation to Reset Import/Export Business

Rapidly, the visibility of online customers is surprisingly increasing. Instead of buying products from local market they are seen much more vigorous to complete transactions on the digital mart. Well, customers who are fond of buying their products from vendors must know you. Find out the ways to promote your import/export business? So, good business planners, advertising agencies and representatives are in high demand for hosting campaigns to motivate the visitors on the so-called virtual portal. EMC is such a helpful organization and its activities on internet seem to be strong to allure interested people to talk to them.

It is a compact business branding and product promotion campaign. Ask for complete papers, free sample models, papers and data for meticulous business analysis. Right now, human psychology is taking role in business environment. Customers coming from different backgrounds are not same in attitude. They have different mindsets, likelihoods, and behavioral patterns.

So, different theories and business promotion strategies must be applied to create strong rapport with customers online. Well, track what customers feel. Go to them to record their messages for offline business evaluation. You don’t need to be a complete researcher with deep knowledge in business ethics but you must have all useful resources, basic plans, new business ideas and data to start the business enthusiastically. Theories and practical knowledge in business must be blended. Ask customers what type of product they need at smart prices.

If it is fashionable clothes or footwear, you must have some attractive gifts with your products to entice customers. Fantastic product promotions, free quotes and discounts are the latest versions in the advertising agencies. If you have new artifacts electronic goods, cars, and cell phones imported from foreign countries, you should find suitable buyers to sell products.

Plan to promote new products imported or exported. Advertising agencies and marketing representatives are hired by companies to do the effective surveys, product promotion and endorsement to make people aware of the types of products. So, you should not underestimate the impact of the online advertisement. Many business consultants and business analyzers are also contacted to take their suggestions to post glossy ads online. Conventional advertisement for business is not fitted to the digital global market. New change must be acceptable as people are getting upgraded devices to correspond. So, festoons, bills, hoardings and distribution of leaflets must be sidelined by choosing the cross device compatible advertisement platform to attract people around the world.

Accept Innovation to Reset Import/Export Business

Innovation in Logistics and Shipment

Your online import export business plan warehouse must have an optimized logistics department to ensure the hassle free product shipment. When a customer places the order, he must be given the product. Eventually, if the product shipment is cancelled for legal barriers and obligations, it must be dangerous to the company to trading products. So definitely, product packaging and then delivery must be completed successfully. Products found defective after delivery must be returned to the vendors.

So, it is a financial loss and company should not spare such a blunder any more. Logistic officers are very much experienced, competent and reliable. They are acquainted with the norms of product packaging for shipment. Recruit only competent packers and movers who must not humiliate you. A small size company must have good logistic department. Often, professional packers and movers companies are given the tasks of product delivery after packaging. These companies have fleets of large cargo trucks, vehicles, trolleys, and double compartment vehicles to transport the larger devices to distant land. Companies have no headache to deliver the products as professional packers with moving facility are available to help customers.

So, when you establish a logistic office for product shipment after completing the packing, you must not overlook the necessity of undergoing innovation. All costly imported devices must be wrapped up. The products lifting process should be hassle free. In addition, your logistic associates must be computer literate to update the top brass about the development in the product delivery. Procedures of product delivery must be innovative. Calculate the cost of consignment delivery. Hire best consultants to prepare result oriented budgets to have more savings eventually.

Virtual import/export logistic office must be created to help newcomers for enquiry. To be frank, online logistic department is open to invite global customers for solutions. If customers have to complain or probe regarding the product packing, they must contact the representatives online to discuss extensively. Virtual import/export office must have free sample papers, models and FAQ sheets with lot of easy solutions to enable customers to place orders fast. This glossy logistic office is the platform for online customers for research, data comparison, facts checking and navigation to have true facts regarding the online transactions. The paperless contract is possible and people have no hassle to keep in touch with your exporting company through smart phones. So, it is a great job from your part to launch a high compatible multifunctional office operated through internet.

Import and Export Industry

The industry of import and export must be enlarging. It attracts youngsters because of its glossiness and immense money earning scope. Today, none is self reliant. A nation can’t be totally independent to manufacture A to Z products. Therefore, interdependence is likely to be the most important thing in the global market. The product import and export industry creates million jobs to restructure the lifestyles of young persons. It is a new way to go to the international clients for deals. Internet helps a person living in Uganda to sell products in China. An Indian entrepreneur imports toys from China to sell the device in the local market.

So, the money is spinning for young traders to have it for bringing a change to their personal lives. In future, over 30 million jobs will be created in the import and export industry. So, young generation has a vast import/export business management infrastructure to handle global customers even through their mini 3 g smart phones. Industry for product exporting is spoon fed by foreign financers. A number of MOU, accords and contractual agreements take place to enhance the trading in the industry. So, you must be well trained with perfection in operating your company with expectation to compete in this industry.

Pack of New Updates for You to Start Export Business

  • Before entertaining your customers and overseas clients, you must complete the paperwork to have registration code number along with approval letter to run the business under the roof.
  • So, many lawyers online are competent to help entrepreneurs to complete registration process lawfully. Contact these experienced lawyers to have fruitful backup.
  • PAN cards details are needed to open an import export online business. So verify you r PAN card to ensure the smooth business running without obligation.
  • Overseas business accounts are needed to do transactions with business clients abroad. They will pay you through a number of online banking platforms. They have good credit cards to pay you instantly. Therefore, open cross device compatible bank account which must be applicable to overseas money transfer. For example, international entrepreneurs use Paypal and popular fast money transfer service providers.
  • Keep your personal life clean without criminal charges. It will be disastrous if you are found in pool of false charges, complaints and criminal charges to discourage overseas clients to talk to you.
  • IEC or Import Export Code should be collected to have permission to trading products. Online exporting company permits only traders with IEC code numbers. This IEC code number is obtained from DGFT.
  • During registration process to have authenticated IEC number, you need colorful photograph with signature. Cross check the application procedures and instructions to make your online application successful in the long run.
  • Need to launch a fast website to go to million customers through internet

Bring Change to Import/Export Business

To be frank, now-a-days, online presentation is so terrific that even a local trader feels it urgent to design a website for product promotion, ads and data management. So be an active import and export entrepreneur with a competitive e-commerce portal to do the regular business promotional campaigns. A website which is optimized is the platform for you as well as trillion customers. Right now, without website, an international entrepreneur finds it very cumbersome to reach overseas clients for deals.

So the emphasis on the website optimization is now given the higher priority. Ranging from business planning, selection of the most productive import export business in the field, down to the data security, recruitment process, customer management, logistics office running and content management must be taken care of through a complete website. Buyers will talk to you online. They have their own mobile devices to open the sites owned by you. Business clients check quotes, dates of appointment and product selling prices online. The support from customer care unit on internet is helpful to a newbie. So, it is significant to launch a new brand website for business expansion.

Download Import and Export Business Plan Sample in pdf

Professional OGS capital writers specialized also in themes such as food delivery service business plan , business plan for the aerial tourism , starting logistics business plan , storage units business model , subscription box business model , starting a taxi company business plan and so on.

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

import business business plan

Add comment

E-mail is already registered on the site. Please use the Login form or enter another .

You entered an incorrect username or password

Comments (0)

mentioned in the press:

Search the site:

import business business plan

OGScapital website is not supported for your current browser. Please use:

import business business plan

Examples logo

Import/Export Business Plan

Import Export Business Plan Examples

It is a fact that open economies do not have enough resources to meet the high demand of goods for their citizens. That is the reason why not only the national government but also private institutions import from other countries to make sure the demand is met and the supply of goods is replenished on a regular basis. You may also see business plan outline with examples .

If you’re planning to export or even import goods for your business, then you first need to create a business plan . Listed below are some import/export business plan examples which will be handy for your business.

Import Export Business Plan Example

import export business plan

  • Google Docs

Size: A4, US

import export business plan example

Size: 228 KB

Import/Export Business Plan Thesis

import export business plan thesis 001

Size: 681 KB

Import, Export, and Car Trading Business Plan

import export and car trading business plan 002

Size: 492 KB

Tips in Creating a Business Plan

Listed below are the tips when creating a business plan. Take note that the tips provided below are not only for an import/export business plan but for other types of business plans as well.

1. Create an executive summary

A business plan is mostly created with the purpose of investment. A business plan is not formulated just to be read by the individuals within the company. The actual contents of a business plan contains confidential industry and competitor information, in which these information are presented to investors, who will be aiming to invest in the company.

It is crucial that an executive summary should be well-written as possible investors will not be reading the entire business plan. Unfortunately, investors don’t have the time to read the entire plan, so make sure important details are laid out in the executive summary. Aside from placing their focus on the executive summary, they will also be browsing through the marketing and finance sections as important information can also be found here.

2. Focus on marketing

One of the key subsections of a business plan is the marketing plan . This subsection of a business plan is one of the most important as it does not only tackle the advertising and promotion strategies of the business but also introduces and analyzes the product and how it benefits customers.

As previously mentioned, marketing begins with the general analysis of the product before manufacturing even begins. There are numerous analysis tools available which are also being used by different companies around the world. Just choose which ones are applicable to your business.

The marketing plan is not only limited to product analysis but general information such as product specification should also be listed to provide clear and specific information for investors.

3. Focus on creating financial forecasts as well

Another key subsection of a simple business plan is the finance or financial forecasts plan. Some investors decide to take a further look at financial forecasts compared to the executive summary and general marketing plan . This is because investors are looking at gaining something from their investment, and not just the initial funds they invested in the company.

Financial forecasts are not usually short-term forecasts, but long-term—typically in a span of three to five years. Normally, investment is not recovered after one year, especially for large businesses with a large number of assets. As long as there is an upward trend of revenues and profits in the forecasts and external factors are analyzed, then the investor will be considering to invest. You may also see business plan guidelines examples .

4. Review and revise

Probably the most forgotten tip not only for a general business plan but all types of business documents as well. Constantly reviewing and revising the business plan is necessary for it to be effective. You never know if there are additional data or information that need to be included in the business plan that will be vital for investors in their decision to invest in your business or not.

Never rush in creating the basic business plan , unless you and your team have been slacking off and delaying to create the business plan. Additionally, a final review or revision should pass through the management team since they are in a better position to analyze the business plan.

Building an Import/Export Business Example

building an import export business 001

Importing/Exporting Business Guide Example

importing exporting business guide 001

Chinese Import/Export Service Company E-Marketing Plan Example

chinese import export service company e marketing plan 001 e1536305466543

The World’s Top Importers and Exporters (2016 data)

Germany is the top automobile and vehicle parts exporter in the world, thanks to its top-quality and classic homemade brands such as BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. On the other side of the coin, the United States is the world’s top importer of automobiles as well as vehicle parts. You may also see network marketing business plan examples .

Hong Kong is the world’s top exporter of integrated circuits while China is the word’s top importer.

China is the world’s top exporter of consumer products such as computers, telephone products, and broadcasting equipment. China is the home of brands such as Lenovo, ASUS, Acer, Haier, Hasee, Xiaomi, ZTE, and Alcatel, to name a few. The USA meanwhile is the top importer for all three products. You may also like bookkeeping business plan examples .

The USA is the world’s top exporter and importer of refined petroleum. Exxon Mobil and Chevron, two of the biggest gas companies in the world are US-based. On the other hand, Russia is the world’s top exporter of crude petroleum while China is the world’s top importer. Gazprom, LukOil, and Rosneft are all based in Russia. You may also check out hotel business plan examples .

Minerals and exquisite items such as gold, diamonds, and jewelry are exported most by Switzerland, India, and China respectively. The top importers are Switzerland, the United States, and Hong Kong respectively.

France is the world’s biggest aircraft manufacturer, with China being the world’s top importer. Airbus (commercial aircrafts) and Dassault Aviation (military aircrafts) both hail from France.

British Columbia Import/Export Business Guide Example

british columbia import export business guide 001

Size: 237 KB

Import Business Plan Example

import business plan example 001

Size: 21 KB

International Export Business Plan Example

international export business plan example 001 e1536306506603

We hope you found this article to be informative as you will be creating your own import/export business plan .

import business business plan

AI Generator

Text prompt

  • Instructive
  • Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Develop your export plan

Talk to the experts.

The U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) District Offices and local Resource Partners deliver SBA programs and services nationwide. Contact a local business counseling center to make an appointment for personalized one-on-one assistance with your small business plans and training.

U.S. Export Assistance Centers (USEACs)  can help you develop an exporting strategy. Each center is staffed by professionals from public and private organizations with experience in assisting small- and medium-sized businesses to enter and succeed in the global marketplace.

Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs)  are another great resource. SBDCs are hosted by leading universities and state economic development agencies and partially funded through a partnership with SBA. Their advisors offer free business consulting and low-cost training services.

The  International Trade Hotline can help U.S. small businesses facing barriers in accessing international markets or seeking referrals to SBA and U.S. trade government programs. Discover the small business benefits of U.S. trade agreements and assistance going global. Contact the toll-free trade hotline at 855-722-4877 or reach out by email at  [email protected] .

The following SBA and other federal resources provide additional help with international sales:

  • SBA Women’s Business Centers
  • SBA Veterans Business Outreach Centers
  • SBA Community Navigators
  • USDA Market Access Program (MAP)

Start developing your export plan

Whether you are starting to trade overseas, or you are looking to expand your global sales, consider SBA and SBA’s Resource Partners for business counseling. We can help connect you to market research as you develop your  export plan . SBA’s Small Business Development Centers offers business counselors who can review your business plan and provide market data and export resources. 

You can also learn more about exporting and developing an export plan from SBA Office of International Trade’s Learn to Trade webinar series: Exporting 101 and Develop an Effective Export Plan .

Additionally, SBA’s ASCENT online learning platform includes a “Growing Globally” journey, which provides six on-demand modules to help design your international trade strategy. 

Business registration and research

If you are just starting out globally, SBA's Business Guide  provides advice on how to start and  register your business  and how to  hire and manage employees .

SBA’s  Office of International Trade (OIT)  is your first point of contact for trade-related resources and referrals to other government agencies who provide valuable small business trade information.  

There are many resources available to help you research where to target global growth, including:

  • The Census Bureau’s  Global Market Finder
  • The International Trade Administration’s  Market Diversification Tool

SBA’s federal partners, including the  International Trade Administration , also offer a wealth of resources tailored for businesses that are starting to trade or want to expand.  Discover which federal resources can be combined with SBA counseling and assistance, such as:

  • Services to promote and expand your business   
  • Country commercial guides
  • Global trade events
  • USDA trade resources

Competitiveness

Developing a strong international business strategy based on data can help your business grow faster.  Explore the resources of industry teams available from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. 

Take a step further and explore how your business fits within  industry clusters  and regional business environments in the United States and abroad.

To increase your competitiveness and resilience, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s  MEP Supplier Scouting program connects you to contract manufacturers and new suppliers to help meet rules of origin for free trade agreement eligibility.

Stay up to date on trade and investment events by visiting:

  • US Trade and Development Agency Reverse Trade Missions
  • International Trade Administration’s Industry Events
  • International Trade Administration’s Select USA
  • Americas Competitiveness Exchange

Find international customers and partners

SBA Resource Partners and your local U.S. Export Assistance Center can connect you to services to help identify foreign buyers.

Through the  International Trade Administration , U.S. small businesses can access for a fee customized market research, an initial assessment of the market potential of a product or service in a target market, matchmaking services including virtual introductions, in-country promotion services, and due diligence assistance to determine suitability of foreign parties and companies.

Trade delegations and investment

Small businesses can follow and reach out to the  U.S. Trade and Development Agency ,  SelectUSA , the International Visitor Leadership program, and foreign embassies and consulates to discover opportunities to connect with foreign traders and investors closer to home or virtually.

For information on outbound investment in development financing and insurance, visit the  U.S. International Development Finance Corporation . State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)

STEP  provides financial awards to state and territory governments to help small businesses with trade expansion. Most states receive STEP support.  Find out if your state does , then contact your local office to learn more.

Get smart on how to finance and insure your exports

Exporters and aspiring exporters often find it is harder to get loans for things like day-to-day operations, advance orders with suppliers, and refinancing for existing debts related to international buyers. That’s why SBA created programs to make it easier to serve small business customers by providing lenders up to a 90% guaranty on export loans. SBA has a suite of three export loan guarantee programs:

Export Express lenders  can directly underwrite a loan without getting prior approval from SBA, allowing you to get capital quickly. Loans are typically approved within 36 hours and can be up to $500,000.

SBA export lenders also offer  Export Working Capital loans , which allow small business owners to apply for loans in advance of finalizing an export sale or contract, giving exporters greater flexibility in negotiating export payment terms. These loans can be up to $5 million, and the turnaround time is usually five to 10 business days.

Additionally, small businesses can apply for  International Trade loans  for help entering international markets and making investments to compete with other foreign sellers globally. These loans offer a combination of fixed asset, working capital financing, and debt refinancing with SBA’s maximum guaranty of 90% on the total loan amount. The maximum loan is $5 million in total financing.

Should you need one, SBA can also help you  get a surety bond  from an authorized agent.

If you are looking to learn more about SBA export loan programs, contact your local  SBA Export Finance Manager  for trade finance counseling and referrals or apply directly at a  participating export lender .

Additionally, the U.S. Import Export Bank (EXIM) offers multi-buyer credit insurance that protects an exporter’s accounts receivable and provides significant benefits. Often used in tandem with SBA’s products, the protection of an EXIM insurance policy equips businesses with the confidence necessary to enter new markets and chart a path forward with margins that they can depend on. To learn more about trade finance, please review the Trade Finance Guide: A Quick Reference for U.S. Exporters , which explains the basics of trade finance, including terminology, trade financing practices, and government assistance.

Learn more about federal trade financing, insurance, and investment financing from SBA federal partners:

  • Export-Import Bank Finance Solutions for Small Businesses
  • Export-Import Bank Export Credit Insurance
  • USDA Export Credit Guarantee Program (GSM-102)
  • U.S. International Development Finance Corporation

Protect your intellectual property internationally

When selling internationally, it is important to protect the authenticity of your products and brands abroad. Intellectual property rights are unique to each country. Your first step is to register with  USPTO  or the  Copyright Office . This will domestically protect your intellectual property in the United States and you can then  record trademarks and copyrights  with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. At the same time and within applicable deadlines, you should consider where to apply to register your rights in other countries.

International treaties, like the  Patent Cooperation Treaty ,  Madrid Protocol  and the  Hague Agreement , may be helpful in meeting deadlines and filing for rights in several countries. Learn more about these agreements and taking proactive steps internationally from SBA OIT’s Learn to Trade: Protecting Your Intellectual Property in Trade video.

The USPTO Contact Center helps with referrals for legal assistance through domestic  patent application preparation  and information about reduced domestic and international USPTO fees for U.S. small business.

Learn more at  Stop Fakes  or  USPTO , or call 800-786-9199 for answers to questions about how to secure patents and trademarks in the United States. The U.S. Copyright Office uniquely provides answers and registration information on  copyright registration and protection .

Explore digital trade and e-commerce

Every day, more and more people around the world go online for the first time. Many of these people are potential customers, looking for quality products and services. E-commerce allows you to increase your brand awareness; conduct business 24 hours a day, seven days a week; and utilize data and technology to tailor your marketing strategy.

If you are beginning to sell online or want to incorporate it more into your business plan, consider SBA business counseling services and training. SCORE offers volunteer mentors skilled in social media marketing and e-commerce. Additionally, STEP awards can be utilized for internationalizing, translating, or optimizing your website for international sales. These actions can help you ensure your business and products:

  • Appear in international searches in target markets
  • Are mobile-friendly
  • Are able to provide options for delivery
  • Are able to calculate total delivery costs, tariffs and any VAT fees
  • Provide digital payment options  

When looking to modernize your e-commerce international approach, the International Trade Administration’s  E-commerce Innovation Lab  offers information on e-commerce channels and how to find and reach potential overseas clients. When importing or exporting e-commerce purchases no matter how small your package,  ensure that your business is compliant  with all the applicable laws in the United States or the destination country.

SBA's fact sheet Increase Your Online Sales in the Global Marketplace: E-commerce and Digital Opportunities for Businesses  summarizes the key resources available across federal agencies to help small businesses explore e-commerce and digital trade.

International shipping

Once you have decided when and where to start trading, it's important that you consider the logistics of the process:

  • Importing and Exporting Business Samples
  • Find a Licensed Freight Forwarder (Ocean Transportation Intermediaries List)

The International Trade Administration provides a helpful toolkit with  12 Export Solutions , including information on shipping and logistics. For ocean shipping, the  Federal Maritime Commission  provides a list of bonded ocean transportation intermediaries for individual or consolidated shipments. Express courier services are also options for smaller shipments and products that must arrive quickly.

Whatever online platforms you use for e-commerce, explore what delivery options the customer can select. Regardless of the mode of delivery for small packages, be sure to explore whether your shipment is eligible for any minimum threshold programs — and that you can prove it meets those program requirements — and whether a Value Added Tax (VAT) will be required for the customer to receive your goods.

Office of International Trade Hotline

Contact the office of international trade hotline.

For additional help, please contact SBA’s Office of International Trade Hotline: 855-722-4877 or [email protected].

  • Online Degree Explore Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees
  • MasterTrack™ Earn credit towards a Master’s degree
  • University Certificates Advance your career with graduate-level learning
  • Top Courses
  • Join for Free

Business Plan: What It Is + How to Write One

Discover what a business plan includes and how writing one can foster your business’s development.

[Featured image] Woman showing a business plan to a man at a desk.

What is a business plan?

A business plan is a written document that defines your business goals and the tactics to achieve those goals. A business plan typically explores the competitive landscape of an industry, analyzes a market and different customer segments within it, describes the products and services, lists business strategies for success, and outlines financial planning.  

In your research into business plans, you may come across different formats, and you might be wondering which kind will work best for your purposes. 

Let’s define two main types of business plans—the traditional business plan and the lean start-up business plan. Both types can serve as the basis for developing a thriving business, as well as exploring a competitive market analysis, brand strategy, and content strategy in more depth. 

There are some significant differences to keep in mind [ 1 ]: 

The traditional business plan is a long document that explores each component in depth. You can build a traditional business plan to secure funding from lenders or investors. 

The lean start-up business plan focuses on the key elements of a business’s development and is shorter than the traditional format. If you don’t plan on seeking funding, the lean start-up plan can serve mainly as a document for making business decisions and carrying out tasks. 

Now that you have a clear business plan definition, continue reading to learn how to start writing a detailed plan that will guide your journey as an entrepreneur.  

How to write a business plan 

In the sections below, you’ll build the following components of your business plan:

Executive summary

Business description 

Products and services 

Competitor analysis 

Marketing plan and sales strategies 

Brand strategy

Financial planning

Explore each section to bring fresh inspiration and reveal new possibilities for developing your business. Depending on which format you're using, you may choose to adapt the sections, skip over some, or go deeper into others. Consider your first draft a foundation for your efforts and one that you can revise, as needed, to account for changes in any business area.

1. Executive summary 

This is a short section that introduces the business plan as a whole to the people who will be reading it, including investors, lenders, or other members of your team. Start with a sentence or two about your business, your goals for developing it, and why it will be successful. If you are seeking funding, summarize the basics of the financial plan. 

2. Business description 

Use this section to provide detailed information about your company and how it will operate in the marketplace.

Mission statement: What drives your desire to start a business? What purpose are you serving? What do you hope to achieve for your business, the team, and customers? 

Revenue streams: From what sources will your business generate revenue? Examples include product sales, service fees, subscriptions, rental fees, license fees, and more. 

Leadership: Describe the leaders in your business, their roles and responsibilities, and your vision for building teams to perform various functions, such as graphic design, product development, or sales.  

Legal structure: Are you operating as a partnership or a corporation? If you’re registering a specific legal structure within your province or territory, include it here and the rationale behind this choice. 

3. Competitor analysis 

This section will include an assessment of potential competitors, their offers, and marketing and sales efforts. For each competitor, explore the following:

Value proposition: What outcome or experience does this brand promise?

Products and services: How does each one solve customer pain points and fulfil desires? What are the price points? 

Marketing: Which channels do competitors use to promote? What kind of content does this brand publish on these channels? What messaging does this brand use to communicate value to customers?  

Sales: What sales process or buyer’s journey does this brand lead customers through?

4. Products and services

Use this section to describe everything your business offers to its target market. For every product and service, list the following: 

The value proposition or promise to customers, in terms of how they will experience it

How the product serves customers, addresses their pain points, satisfies their desires, and improves their lives.

The features or outcomes that make the product better than those of competitors

Your price points and how these compare to competitors

5. Marketing plan and sales strategies 

In this section, you’ll draw from thorough market research to describe your target market and how you will reach it. 

Who are your ideal customers?   

How can you describe this segment according to their demographics (age, ethnicity, income, location, etc.) and psychographics (beliefs, values, aspirations, lifestyle, etc.)? 

What are their daily lives like? 

What problems and challenges do they experience? 

What words, phrases, ideas, and concepts do consumers in your target market use to describe these problems when posting on social media or engaging with your competitors?  

What messaging will present your products as the best on the market? How will you differentiate messaging from competitors? 

On what marketing channels will you position your products and services?

How will you design a customer journey that delivers a positive experience at every touchpoint and leads customers to a purchase decision?

6. Brand strategy 

In this section, you will describe your business’s design, personality, values, voice, and other details that go into delivering a consistent brand experience. 

What are the values that define your brand?

What visual elements give your brand a distinctive look and feel?

How will your marketing messaging reflect a distinctive brand voice, including tone, diction, and sentence-level stylistic choices? 

How will your brand look and sound throughout the customer journey? 

Define your brand positioning statement. What will inspire your audience to choose your brand over others? What experiences and outcomes will your audience associate with your brand? 

7. Financial planning  

In this section, you will explore your business’s financial future. If you are writing a traditional business plan to seek funding, this section is critical for demonstrating to lenders or investors that you have a strategy for turning your business ideas into profit. For a lean start-up business plan, this section can provide a useful exercise for planning how you will invest resources and generate revenue [ 2 ].  

Use any past financials and other sections of this business plan, such as your price points or sales strategies, to begin your financial planning. 

How many individual products or service packages do you plan to sell over a specific time period?

List your business expenses, such as subscribing to software or other services, hiring contractors or employees, purchasing physical supplies or equipment, etc.

What is your break-even point, or the amount you have to sell to cover all expenses?

Create a sales forecast for the next three to five years: (No. of units to sell X price for each unit) – (cost per unit X No. of units) = sales forecast.

Quantify how much capital you have on hand.

When writing a traditional business plan to secure funding, you may choose to append supporting documents, such as licenses, permits, patents, letters of reference, resumes, product blueprints, brand guidelines, the industry awards you’ve received, and media mentions and appearances.

Business plan key takeaways and best practices

Remember: Creating a business plan is crucial when starting a business. You can use this document to guide your decisions and actions and even seek funding from lenders and investors. 

Keep these best practices in mind:

Your business plan should evolve as your business grows. Return to it periodically, such as every quarter or year, to update individual sections or explore new directions your business can take.

Ensure everyone on your team has a copy of the business plan, and welcome their input as they perform their roles. 

Ask fellow entrepreneurs for feedback on your business plan and look for opportunities to strengthen it, from conducting more market and competitor research to implementing new strategies for success. 

Start your business with Coursera 

Ready to start your business? Watch this video on the lean approach from the Entrepreneurship Specialization :

Article sources

BDC. “ Step 2—Prepare a winning business plan , https://www.bdc.ca/en/articles-tools/start-buy-business/start-business/create-effective-business-plan." Accessed November 13, 2022.

CBDC. " NEW fillable CBDC Business Plan ,   https://www.cbdc.ca/en/new-fillable-cbdc-business-plan." Accessed November 13, 2022.

Keep reading

Coursera staff.

Editorial Team

Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact...

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

  • Top Stories
  • Stock Market
  • BUYING RATES
  • FOREIGN INTEREST RATES
  • Philippine Mutual Funds
  • Leaders and Laggards
  • Stock Quotes
  • Stock Markets Summary
  • Non-BSP Convertible Currencies
  • BSP Convertible Currencies
  • US Commodity futures
  • Infographics
  • B-Side Podcasts
  • Agribusiness
  • Arts & Leisure
  • Special Features
  • Special Reports
  • BW Launchpad

import business business plan

  • Editors' Picks

Moody’s Analytics hikes PHL growth forecast

import business business plan

MOODY’S ANALYTICS raised its growth projection for the Philippines to 5.8% this year from 5.4% it gave in January, as strong demand for electronics could spur export growth in Asia-Pacific economies.

It expects the Philippines to be the third-fastest performing economy in the region this year after India (6%) and Vietnam (6%). It is also followed by China (5%) and Indonesia (4.9%).

However, Moody’s Analytics’ forecast is below the government’s full-year gross domestic product (GDP) growth goal of 6.5-7.5% this year.

In a report dated Feb. 21, Moody’s said the Philippines has “shown remarkable resilience thanks to electronics exports, relatively strong domestic demand, government spending and remittances.”

“The Philippines and Taiwan enjoyed rapid growth at year’s end,” it said. “In the Philippines, the post-pandemic recovery continues, helped by record overseas remittances in value terms last year that fueled strong domestic demand.”

The Philippine economy grew by 5.6% in 2023, falling short of the government’s 6-7% target and slower than 7.6% in 2022.

In the report, Moody’s said better demand for electronics would lead to rising exports globally in the second half, which will boost economic growth in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

“Exports will improve alongside global growth in the second half of this year, and this will boost APAC economies,” it said. “Improved demand for electronics and high-performance chips needed for AI (artificial intelligence) will underpin rising exports.”

The research unit also sees higher demand for cars, car parts and pharmaceuticals.

“Further, as central banks finally loosen monetary policy, lower interest rates will encourage domestic spending and investment across much of Asia,” it said.

Inflation averaged 6% in 2023, marking the second straight year that it breached the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) 2-4% target.

To tame inflation, the BSP hiked borrowing costs by 450 basis points (bps) from May 2022 to October 2023, bringing the key rate to a near 17-year high of 6.5%.

Central bank officials have said inflation might still pick up in the second quarter, prompting the Monetary Board to keep borrowing costs steady until a sustained downtrend in inflation is seen.

“With elections now completed in Thailand, the Philippines, Taiwan and Indonesia, there is a good chance that fiscal policy will remain stimulative, at least for a short while, as new administrations execute their policies,” Moody’s Analytics said.

It expects the economy to expand by 5.8% in 2025 before picking up further to 6.3% in 2026. However, both forecasts are below the government’s 6.5-8% target.

It sees inflation settling at 3.4% this year, before it slows further to 3% in both 2025 and 2026. — Keisha B. Ta-asan

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

 width=

BSP still prepared to adjust policy

 width=

‘Not the right time’ to raise wages — NEDA

 width=

ABS-CBN and PLDT cancel Sky Cable deal; reasons undisclosed

import business business plan

MIC identifies possible areas for investments

Qr ph transactions grow as more banks, businesses adopt standard, bsp may continue rate hikes amid stubborn inflation.

  • Agri-Commodities
  • Asean Economic Community
  • Banking & Finance
  • Entrepreneur
  • Executive Views
  • Export Unlimited
  • Harvard Management Update
  • Monday Morning
  • Mutual Funds
  • Stock Market Outlook
  • The Integrity Initiative
  • Editorial cartoon
  • Design&Space
  • Digital Life
  • 360° Review
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Biodiversity
  • Climate Change
  • Environment
  • Envoys & Expats
  • Health & Fitness
  • Mission: PHL
  • Perspective
  • Photo Gallery
  • Today in History
  • Tony&Nick
  • When I Was 25
  • Wine & Dine
  • Live & In Quarantine
  • Bulletin Board
  • Public Service
  • The Broader Look

Today’s front page, Saturday, February 24, 2024

new a1 front saturday 022424

Cambodia to install hundreds of wildlife cameras to help restore tiger population

  • Sopheng Cheang | Associated Press
  • February 25, 2024
  • 2 minute read

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia—Cambodia will begin installing hundreds of monitoring cameras and import four tigers from India as part of a plan to restore its tiger population, officials said on Friday.

Tigers were declared “functionally extinct” in Cambodia in 2016 by the World Wide Fund for Nature.

The last tiger spotted in the country was seen in 2007 by a camera trap—a hidden camera that is triggered by the movement of animals—in the forests of eastern Mondulkiri province.

Cambodia’s Environment Ministry said it plans to install cameras at 1-kilometer intervals in the Cardamom Mountains for use over a three-month period covering both the dry and rainy seasons to monitor wildlife, particularly those preyed upon by tigers, such as deer and wild boar.

The conservation group Wildlife Alliance, which is working with the ministry on the project, said 410 cameras will be installed.

“This information will aid conservationists in devising plans to bolster big tiger populations, which may involve measures like breeding more wildlife or supplying domestic cattle or buffaloes,” the ministry said in a statement. “It will facilitate the study of the density and distribution of prey species crucial for the survival of big tigers.”

Ministry spokesman Khvay Atitya said the installation of the camera traps will begin this weekend. He said four tigers, three female and one male, will be sent from India by the end of the year to be settled in a 90-hectare (222-acre) protected zone inside the Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary, which is in the western provinces of Koh Kong and Pursat.

Under an agreement with India, if the pilot plan proceeds smoothly, 12 more tigers will be imported over the following five years, he said.

In 2022, Cambodia and India signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Biodiversity Conservation, Sustainable Wildlife Management, and Strategies to Restore Big Tigers and Their Habitats.

Cambodia’s once-significant undeveloped forest areas were abundant with wildlife. But after the communist Khmer Rouge’s brutal rule in the 1970s left society and the economy devastated, poor rural dwellers scoured the forests for wildlife.

Much of what was found was sold to traders, who sent it to China, where many wild animals, including tigers, are believed to possess medicinal and sex-enhancing properties.

Poaching is still rampant, and forest cover has been reduced by intense logging.

Worldwide, tigers have been classified as a nearly extinct species. There are about 3,200 tigers in only 13 countries globally, according to WWF, compared to approximately 100,000 in the early 20th century.

top01 021824

To live, PHL Eagles move to new space

  • Erwin M. Mascariñas
  • February 18, 2024

2.dogs k9 022523

UPMV K9 builds disaster resiliency through dog training

  • BusinessMirror

1. wildelife selfie nycticebus coucang 002

Selfies with wildlife harm animals

  • Andrea l. DiGiorgio, Princeton University | The Conversation (CC) via AP

top01 021824

Saving Mabini, Batangas’s coastal, marine ecosystem

  • Jonathan L. Mayuga

bio02 021824

Conservation research on 4 mountain ranges in Mindanao support science-based policies

  • Karl Vincent S. Mendez | S&T Media Services

bio02 021124

Old forests critical for slowing climate change; need protection from logging

  • Beverly Law, Oregon State University/The Conversation (CC) via Associated Press
  • February 11, 2024

bio01 021124

Northern Manila Bay: A haven for migratory shorebirds under threat

monarch butterflies california

Monarch butterflies overwintering in California dropped by 30% in 2023

  • Olga R. Rodriguez | Associated Press
  • February 4, 2024

bio03 020424

PLDT, Smart partner with WTW for sustainability, e-waste management

bio01 020424

Mount Malindang set for ecotourism to ensure sustainable development

bio03 012824

2 groups extend collaboration to protect, restore coral cover in Coral Triangle

  • January 28, 2024

bio02 012824

What happens to the ocean if all the fish are taken out?

  • Kory Evansm, Rice University | The Conversation (CC) via AP

bio01 012824

Where have all the ‘tutubi’ gone?

1.1 phl eagle 012124

Study: PHL eagle’s unknown behavior discovered

  • January 21, 2024

britain ukraine war bear refugee

Refugee bear from Ukraine zoo finds new home in Scotland

  • Brian Melley | Associated Press

2.pawikan 012124

‘Pawikan’ hatchlings released to Cavite coast

bio01 011424

Protecting man’s best friend

  • January 14, 2024

bio02 011424

331 pawikan hatchlings released into the sea in Batangas

egypt votes in presidential election

How to dispose of Christmas holiday trash–to prevent pollution

  • Sana Pashankar | Bloomberg News
  • January 7, 2024

endangered species act spending

Most funds for endangered species go to few species, leaving others in limbo

  • Matthew Brown and John Flesher | Associated Press

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

Introduction

This 60-minute tutorial shows you how to import and export data in Planning, including importing exchange rates into multicurrency business processes.

Planning allows you to import and export plan data. You can load data into Planning using these options:

  • Data Integration and Management, for complex data mappings
  • EPM Automate
  • Migrations, using snapshots that include Essbase data
  • Import Data and Export Data in the Application cluster of Planning

This tutorial shows you how to load data using Import Data and Export Data in the Application cluster of Planning.

Importing data requires a file formatted using supported delimiters. If you need a sample, refer to the import file included in this tutorial or run the export process and use that as a template.

For a list of supported delimiter characters and exceptions, see the Other Supported Delimiter Characters topic in the Administering Planning documentation.

You export data into a flat file. You can use the exported file:

  • When you need to load data to a migrated or new Planning business process
  • As a backup of your Planning data
  • As a template for importing data into multiple dimensions

Prerequisites

Cloud EPM Hands-on Tutorials may require you to import a snapshot into your Cloud EPM Enterprise Service instance. Before you can import a tutorial snapshot, you must request another Cloud EPM Enterprise Service instance or remove your current application and business process. The tutorial snapshot will not import over your existing application or business process, nor will it automatically replace or restore the application or business process you are currently working with.

Before starting this tutorial, you must:

  • Have Service Administrator access to a Cloud EPM Enterprise Service instance.
  • Upload and import the below attached snapshots into your instance to perform data loading in various sections.
  • Have Service Administrator access to Planning for EPM Enterprise Cloud Service.
  • Upload and import this snapshot into your Planning business process. This snapshot includes the Operating Expenses - Overhead Depts FY23 form.
  • Download this data import file and save it locally.
  • Have Service Administrator access to EPM Enterprise Cloud Service.
  • Remove the Planning business process used in the loading data sections of this tutorial.
  • Upload and import the snapshot into your Planning instance.
  • Download this exchange rates import file and save it locally.

Reviewing the Data Point-of-View

Before importing data, review the data point-of-view (POV) in the form and the contents of the import file used in this tutorial.

Reviewing the Imported Form

  • Locate the form you imported using the provided migrated snapshot. From the Planning home page, click Data .

The Data Entry page is displayed.

  • Expand Plan .
  • Locate and click Operating Expenses - Overhead Depts FY23 .

The import file used in this tutorial imports data into this form's point-of-view.

  • Review and take note of the data point-of-view on the form.
  • Click Close .

Reviewing the Import File

Make sure you downloaded a local copy of the import file mentioned in the What Do You Need section of this tutorial.

  • Open the comma-separated values file.
  • Do not make any changes.
  • Review the contents of the file.
  • Close the file.

Importing Data

In this section, you validate the import data file and run the import data process in Planning.

Validating Import Data Files

  • From the Planning home page, click Application .
  • Click Overview .
  • On the Application page, click Actions .
  • Select Import Data .
  • On the Import Data page, click Create .

You select or enter the required file information on the Import Data page.

  • Accept the default selection, Local , as the Location.

If you select Local, you can browse for a data file stored on your local folder. If you select Inbox, you must specify the exact name of the data file stored on the server.

  • Accept the selection, Default , as the Source Type.

Source types depend on how your data file is structured.

  • Accept the default selection, Comma delimited , as the File Type.
  • For Source File, click Browse .
  • Navigate to the location of the import file, select it, and click Open .
  • Select Include Metadata .
  • For Date Format, accept the default selection: MM-DD-YYYY .
  • Click Validate .

As a precaution, always validate your data files before running the import process.

You check the status of the validation process in Job Scheduler. If errors are found, you can modify the file and revalidate it.

  • Click Close twice to close the Import Data pages.
  • From the cards displayed on top of the Application page, click Jobs .

The current state of all submitted and scheduled jobs are displayed on the Jobs page.

  • Locate the Validate Import Data job and verify that it completed successfully.

Running the Import Process

After validating your import data file, you can run the import process.

Return to the Import Data page. You will re-enter the same selections from when you validated the import data file.

  • From the cards displayed on top of the Jobs page, click Overview .
  • Review your selections.
  • Click Import .
  • On the Information dialog box that confirms that the import data job was submitted successfully, click OK .
  • Return to Jobs to view the job status. Click Close twice to close the Import Data pages.
  • Locate the Import Data job and verify that it completed successfully.

Verifying the Data Load in the Form

After validating your data file, running the import process, and checking the job status, verify the data load by viewing the data in a form.

  • Return to the Planning home page. Click the Home icon on the top right portion of the page.
  • Click Data .

The imported data is displayed on the form.

Exporting Data

In this section, you export data from your Planning business process.

Running the Export Process

  • Select Export Data .
  • On the Export Data page, click Create .

You enter export details on this page.

  • For Location, accept the default selection: Local .
  • For Cube, accept the default selection: Plan 1 .
  • For Smart Lists, select Export Names .
  • For Dynamic Members, accept the default selection: Include .

In the Slice Definition section, you select members for the row, column, and POV.

You export asymmetric data sets. You select a dense dimension for the row, a dense dimension for the column, and the rest of the dimensions in the POV.

  • For Row, select Account .
  • Click Member Selector next to the Row dropdown list.

Member Selector is displayed.

  • In Member Selector, select the following accounts: Descendants inclusive of Total Office Expenses (7003) and Descendants inclusive of Total Facility Services Expenses (7004) .
  • For Column, select Period and open Member Selector .
  • Select Level 0 Descendants of YearTotal , and click OK .
  • HSP_View: BaseData
  • Scenario: Plan
  • Version: Working
  • Entity: CEO Office (710)
  • Product: No Product (P_000)
  • Review your selections for the slice definition.
  • Click Export .

The Data Export status dialog box is displayed.

  • When prompted where to save the file, navigate to your local folder and click Save .
  • Click Close twice to close the Export Data pages.

Viewing the Exported Data File

  • In your local machine's file system, locate the exported compressed (zip) file.
  • Extract the compressed file.
  • Double-click to open the extracted CSV file.

Scheduling Data Loads

To start scheduling import and export data jobs, you must work with the Inbox/Outbox Explorer and save the import and export process when you first create them.

Uploading your Data File to the Inbox/Outbox Explorer

Before uploading your file to the Inbox/Outbox Explorer, make sure you validate it. See the Validating Import Data Files section of this tutorial.

  • Click Actions and select Inbox/Outbox Explorer .

The Inbox/Outbox Explorer dialog box is displayed.

  • Click Upload .
  • In the Upload File dialog box, click Browse .
  • Locate the import data file in your file system, select it, and click Open .
  • Click Upload File .
  • When the message File upload completed successfully displays, click OK .

The import data file is now listed in Inbox/Outbox Explorer.

Saving Import Data Jobs

  • On the Application page, click Actions and select Import Data .
  • For Location, select Inbox .
  • For Source File, enter the full name of the import data file: epm_planning_Account_FY23.csv .
  • Click Save as Job .

The Save as Job dialog box is displayed.

  • Enter a name for the job: Import Accounts FY23 .
  • Click Save .
  • When the message box confirming that the job was saved displays, click OK .

The Import Data page lists the saved job.

Scheduling Import Data Jobs

  • Click Schedule Jobs .

The Schedule Job wizard is displayed.

  • From the list of job types, click Import Data .
  • Select to run the job now or schedule it at a later time.
  • Determine how often you want to run the job.
  • Enter a name
  • Select a pattern
  • Optionally, select an End Date
  • Click Next .
  • Review the job details, make sure the Import Accounts FY23 job is listed and selected, then click Next .
  • Click Finish .

The scheduled job is listed under Pending Jobs.

When the job runs or completes, its status is displayed under Recent Activity.

Saving Export Data Jobs

  • From the cards displayed on top of the Application page, click Overview .
  • Click Actions and select Export Data .
  • For Location, select Outbox .
  • For Row, select Account and click Member Selector next to the Row dropdown list.
  • In Member Selector, select the following accounts: Descendants inclusive of Total Office Expenses (7003) and Descendants inclusive of Total Facility Services Expenses (7004),
  • Enter a name for the job: Export CEO Expenses .

The Export Data page lists the saved job.

Scheduling Export Data Jobs

  • From the list of job types, click Export Data .

The dropdown list allows you to select a time zone.

  • Optionally, select an end date
  • Review the job details, make sure the Export CEO Expenses job is listed and selected, then click Next .

Downloading your Exported Data File from Inbox/Outbox Explorer

Inbox/Outbox Explorer is displayed with exported files listed on the page.

  • For "Export CEO Expenses.zip", click Actions and select Download File .
  • Navigate to where you want to save the file locally, then click Save .
  • Close Inbox/Outbox Explorer.

Importing Exchange Rates for Multicurrency Business Processes

In this section, you import exchange rates into a multicurrency business process.

Before proceeding with the tasks in this section, you must remove the business process used in the loading data sections of this tutorial and import the required snapshot for this section, as specified in the What Do You Need? section of this tutorial.

Accessing the Exchange Rates to < Main Currency > form

Exchange rates are stored in the Account dimension and contain the ending and average rates used to convert foreign currencies into the main currency. These rates are in FX Rates-Average and FX Rates-Ending. These rates are locked and can't be deleted. Users with view permissions can view or enter the rates for the currencies on the Exchange Rates to < main currency > form (For example, Exchange Rates to USD).

From the Planning home page, click Data .

Click the form name to open it.

You add exchange rates by period for all input currencies against the main currency. You must add values across all intersections under which you wish to see the converted data. In this example, my Planning business process has multiple input currencies: USD (default), GBP, EUR, JPY, SGD.

Exporting the Exchange Rate Template

  • From the Planning home page, click Application , and then Overview .
  • On the Application page, click Actions , and then select Export Exchange Rate Template .
  • Open ExchangeRateTemplate.csv or save it locally.
  • In the template file:
  • Enter average and ending currency exchange rates for each period and each currency.
  • Specify members for the POV.
  • Save the file.

Validating and Importing Exchange Rates

In this section, you import exchange rates using the sample import file from the What Do You Need? section of this tutorial.

  • On the Application page, click the Actions menu and select Import Exchange Rates .
  • Click Create .
  • Navigate to the location of your exchange rate file, select it, and click Open .
  • Locate the Validate Import Exchange Rates job and verify that it completed successfully.
  • Return to the Application page. From the cards displayed on top of the Jobs page, click Overview .
  • Repeat steps 1 to 8 in this section to complete the information required on the Import Exchange Rates pages.
  • Review your selections and click Import .
  • When the Information message box is displayed, click OK .
  • Locate the Import Exchange Rates job and verify that it completed successfully.

Reviewing the Imported Exchange Rates

  • Click the Exchange Rates to USD form.

The form displays the imported exchange rates.

Related Links

  • Documentation and related videos
  • Oracle EPM Tutorials YouTube Channel

Loading Data in Planning

February, 2024

Copyright © 2024, Oracle and/or its affiliates.

US should block cheap Chinese auto imports from Mexico, US makers say

Tesla plans a new gigafactory in northern Mexico, in Santa Catarina

  • BYD Co Ltd Follow
  • Ford Motor Co Follow
  • General Motors Co Follow

Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Leslie Adler and William Mallard

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

Ford Motor Co. reveals the 2024 Ford F-150 pick-up truck

Union demands Lufthansa makes improved offer before agreeing fresh talks

German labour union Verdi on Saturday demanded Lufthansa offers a higher wage increase for thousands of the German airline's ground crew before it agrees to a fresh round of pay talks aimed at averting further industrial action.

NVIDIA HGX AI Supercomputer on display during the annual Foxconn Tech Day in Taipei

IMAGES

  1. Import/Export Business Plan

    import business business plan

  2. Printable Sample Business Plan Sample Form in 2023

    import business business plan

  3. Import Boutique Business Plan

    import business business plan

  4. How to make export/import business plan

    import business business plan

  5. Import/Export Business Plan

    import business business plan

  6. FREE 16+ Boutique Business Plan Templates in PDF

    import business business plan

VIDEO

  1. Type of business plan discussion🔥| How to Start New business in 2024@RupaOdiaKahani

  2. how to show business plan

  3. Starting A Successful Business as a Beginner || {Very Important} ||#realestate #fixandflip

  4. India New Plan For Oil Export To Europe Pakistan reaction ll pal media reaction on India oil Export

  5. What makes your business plans so special ? #businessplaninhindi #businesstips

  6. business plan

COMMENTS

  1. How to Write an Import Export Business Plan + Free Template

    An import-export business plan is a professional document that outlines the objectives, strategies, operational details, and financial projections of a business engaged in global trade. It serves as a detailed blueprint, providing a clear picture of market opportunity and helping you navigate the potential challenges of cross-border business.

  2. Import Export Business Plan Template (2024)

    Import Export Business Plan Template Written by Dave Lavinsky Trade Global Business Plan You've come to the right place to create your Trade Global business plan. We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Trade Global businesses.

  3. Import/Export Company: get a solid business plan (example)

    July 14, 2023 Starting an import/export company can be a great way to capitalize on global markets and create a profitable business. It can also open up opportunities to source and sell products from different countries, allowing businesses to benefit from cost savings, new markets, and a wider selection of products.

  4. Import Export Business Plan Example

    Solution Visigoth Imports will provide complete import/export brokerage services including purchase contracts, shipping, warehousing, and delivery scheduling. The company will concentrate on special and cultural imports from Germany and Scandinavia to the unique Bavarian town of Leavenworth, WA.

  5. How to Start an Import-Export Business: Complete Guide

    6 minute read Over the last few years, the rates of imports and exports in the US have risen exponentially. Government statistics from the US Bureau of Economic Analysis show that in 2021 December alone, average imports increased by $7.1 billion, and average imports increased by $7.0 billion.¹

  6. How to Start an Import/Export Business in 6 Steps

    How to Start an Import/Export Business in 6 Steps - NerdWallet Small Business Advertiser disclosure How to Start an Import/Export Business in 6 Steps Interested in how to start an...

  7. Import & Export Business Plan Examples

    D.A.P. Exports is an automobile parts and lubricant exporter to Latin American countries. Export Watch Manufacturer Business Plan Grutzen Watches will build and import to the U.S. high-quality watches designed by the best German engineers. Fitness Equipment Business Plan

  8. Import Export Business Plan Template

    Your import-export business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes. Sources of Funding for Import-Export Businesses With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for an import-export business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors.

  9. How to Start an Import Export Business in 11 Steps

    How To Language: Published on 23 Mar 2023 How to Start an Import Export Business Embarking on an import-export business venture can open up a world of opportunities for entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the global market.

  10. How to Write a Business Plan for Your Import-Export Business

    Here are 6 steps to writing the perfect business plan for your import-export company: Start with an Executive Summary. Think of this as the ultimate introduction to your business. It should concisely delineate exactly what you want as a business owner. Remember, you need to know where your business is going. It's up to you to clarify your vision.

  11. How to write a business plan for an import-export company?

    Why write a business plan for an import-export company? What information is needed to create a business plan for an import-export company? What goes in the financial forecast for an import-export company? What goes in the written part of an import-export company business plan? What tool can I use to write my import-export company business plan?

  12. Guide to Starting an Import/Export Business: Step-by-Step

    Below are the steps to starting an Import/Export business. Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order. An Overview of What You're Getting Into Import/Export Business Overview Researching Your Import/Export Business Looking at Financials Choosing A Business Location

  13. Import Export Business Plan: Everything You Need to Know

    1. Advertise Online Almost all businesses must have a quality website. It's impossible to attract foreign customers without having an online presence. Set up a website with information about your offerings. If you are planning to sell your products in another country, your website must be targeted at foreign clients.

  14. How to Start an Import Export Business in 9 Easy Steps

    Market your business. 1. Identify products to import or export. Starting a successful import-export business means determining what products or services you want to trade. You need to look into different items and industries to find out what's in demand worldwide and see if importing or exporting them is practical.

  15. How to Create an Import/Export Business Plan

    1 Market analysis Before you enter the import/export market, you need to research the demand, competition, and opportunities for your products or services. You should identify your target market,...

  16. Import Export Business Plan Template + Example

    Download a free import export business plan template in PDF or Word doc format What you'll get with this template: A complete business plan Unlike other blank templates, our business plan examples are complete business plans with all of the text and financial forecasts already filled out.

  17. How to make export/import business plan

    A business plan is an important management tool for export-import companies, managers and entrepreneurs. It includes all information, strategies, and tactics for achieving the company goals. It gives the business a clear orientation on import and export business activities and shows where to put efforts to.

  18. Developing an Import and Export Business Plan

    An import/export business plan is important for defining your company's present status and internal goals and commitment, but it is also required if you plan to measure results. Where do you start? Begin by adopting the skills, interests, and resources you already have.

  19. Import and Export Business Plan [Update 2024]

    Your online import export business plan warehouse must have an optimized logistics department to ensure the hassle free product shipment. When a customer places the order, he must be given the product. Eventually, if the product shipment is cancelled for legal barriers and obligations, it must be dangerous to the company to trading products. ...

  20. Import/Export Business Plan

    Listed below are some import/export business plan examples which will be handy for your business. Import Export Business Plan Example Details File Format Google Docs MS Word Pages Size: A4, US Download Import/Export Business Plan artepanama.org Details File Format PDF Size: 228 KB Download Import/Export Business Plan Thesis theseus.fi Details

  21. Develop your export plan

    The International Trade Hotline can help U.S. small businesses facing barriers in accessing international markets or seeking referrals to SBA and U.S. trade government programs. Discover the small business benefits of U.S. trade agreements and assistance going global. Contact the toll-free trade hotline at 855-722-4877 or reach out by email at ...

  22. Import Export Business Plan

    Import Export Business Plan . The companies that are capable of managing this most effectively are able to strike a balance between benefiting society and drawing a profit. Unlike a non-profit that is fully focused on philanthropy or a private enterprise that's main objective is to derive profits, social entrepreneurship inherits the ...

  23. Business Plan: What It Is + How to Write One

    A business plan is a written document that defines your business goals and the tactics to achieve those goals. A business plan typically explores the competitive landscape of an industry, analyzes a market and different customer segments within it, describes the products and services, lists business strategies for success, and outlines ...

  24. Moody's Analytics hikes PHL growth forecast

    MOODY'S ANALYTICS raised its growth projection for the Philippines to 5.8% this year from 5.4% it gave in January, as strong demand for electronics could spur export growth in Asia-Pacific economies. It expects the Philippines to be the third-fastest performing economy in the region this year after India (6%) and Vietnam (6%). It is also […]

  25. Cambodia to install hundreds of wildlife cameras to help restore tiger

    PHNOM PENH, Cambodia—Cambodia will begin installing hundreds of monitoring cameras and import four tigers from India as part of a plan to restore its tiger population, officials said on Friday.

  26. Loading Data in Planning

    Locate the import data file in your file system, select it, and click Open. Click Upload File. When the message File upload completed successfully displays, click OK. The import data file is now listed in Inbox/Outbox Explorer. Click Close. Saving Import Data Jobs. On the Application page, click Actions and select Import Data.

  27. Paresh Solanki on Instagram: " Local Business vs. Export Business

    457 likes, 19 comments - pareshsolankioes on February 13, 2024: " Local Business vs. Export Business Considering launching a business in India? Explore the d..." Paresh Solanki on Instagram: "🌏 Local Business vs. Export Business Considering launching a business in India?

  28. US should block cheap Chinese auto imports from Mexico, US makers say

    The U.S. government should block the import of low-cost Chinese autos and parts from Mexico, a U.S. manufacturing advocacy group said on Friday, warning they could threaten the viability of ...