Import / Export Kit For Dummies (3^rd Ed.)

With an increased focus on global trade, this new edition of Import/Export Kit For Dummies provides entrepreneurs and small- to mid-sized businesses with the critical, entry-point information they need to begin exporting their products around the world?as well as importing goods to sell. Inside, you'll find the most up-to-date information on trade regulations, where to turn for additional guidance on seamlessly navigating the dreaded red tape, and much more.

With significant changes in technology, expanding economics, and international trade agreements, the global marketplace continues to grow and change rapidly. In fact, companies that do business internationally are proven to grow faster and fail less often than companies that don't. This authoritative reference is packed with everything you need to get started, so why not get in on the game while the going is good?

• Gets you up to speed on the lingo of international business
• Shows you how to follow guidelines for developing a successful business and marketing plan
• Helps you understand distributor and agent agreement outlines
• Offers unprecedented insight on pinpointing the right markets for your import/export business

Importing and exporting goods is a valuable way to expand your business and take part in the global economy, and this hands-on, friendly guide shows you how.

Introduction 1
Part I: Getting Started with Import/Export 5

Chapter 1: Introducing Import/Export 7

Chapter 2: Figuring Out Your Role in the Import/Export Business 17

Chapter 3: Rules and Regulations to Consider Before You Get Started 31

Chapter 4: Organizing for Import and Export Operations 47
Part II: Selecting Products and Finding Suppliers 65

Chapter 5: Selecting the Right Products 67

Chapter 6: Connecting with Overseas Suppliers for Your Imports 73

Chapter 7: Everything You Need to Know about Alibaba.com 85

Chapter 8: Finding U.S Suppliers for Your Exports 93
Part III: Identifying Your Target Market and Finding Customers 103

Chapter 9: Looking at Marketing 105

Chapter 10: Researching Export Markets 129

Chapter 11: Researching Import Markets 139

Chapter 12: Making Export Contacts and Finding Customers 149

Chapter 13: Locating Customers for Your Imports 159
Part IV: Negotiating Around the World 167

Chapter 14: How Negotiations Work 169

Chapter 15: What Makes Global Negotiating Different 177

Chapter 16: Doing Business around the World 187
Part V: Completing the Transaction: International Trade Procedures and Regulations 217

Chapter 17: Making the Sale: Pricing, Quotes, and Shipping Terms 219

Chapter 18: Methods of Payment 227

Chapter 19: Packing and Shipping with the Right Documentation 249

Chapter 20: Getting Your Goods: Customs Requirements and the Entry Process 267
Part VI: The Part of Tens 289

Chapter 21: Ten Keys to Becoming a Successful Importer 291

Chapter 22: Ten Keys to Becoming a Successful Exporter 297
Part VII: Appendixes 303

Appendix A: Resources 305

Appendix B: Multilingual Cross‐Reference for International Shipping Terms 315

Appendix C: Online Resources 323
Index 329

Import/Export Kit For Dummies, 3rd Edition, provides entrepreneurs and small to mid–sized businesses with the critical, entry–point information they need to begin exporting their products around the world and importing goods to sell in the U.S.

John Capela has taught marketing, management, and international business courses at St. Joseph's College in New York for 20 years. He is president of CADE International, which provides consulting and training in international business including importing, exporting, licensing, and foreign investment.