Lumber importers and lumber exporters around the world are not as difficult to do business with as they were in the past. With the explosion of forestry importers and forestry exporters via the Internet, the world has shrunk to manageable levels. There are still a number of roadblocks to developing international contacts for importers and exporters of lumber, including legal, monetary and cultural nuances.

Knowing the forestry import services and forestry export services that you want to target is only part of the battle. You must deal with international trade exchange rates, international business and trade law, as well as procuring the international forestry exporter and importer leads that you will need to do business globally. Grow your forestry importers and exporters leads in a number of ways.

1. Hire a consultant to set up your ties with lumber importers and exporters

2. Join forestry importers and exporters trade groups

3. Build your own network of international forestry exporter and importer companies

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use the pros to find lumber import services

International commerce has been cracked open by many top firms who offer clients the benefits of their expertise as well as introductions to the right trade portals. The contacts are firm and the relationships are ongoing. You can hire international trade business consultants on a fee basis or hold an international business and trade firm on retainer.

I recommend: Larix Consulting can provide assistance to many aspects of your business including import/export relationships and how to best fit in with the global economy. Clark Forestry Consulting stays on top of import and export opportunities and will share them with their clients.

Network with leading forestry importers and exporters

Through mutual contacts and interest, you can build relationships that you need to grow your own business and to get good sales leads through a trade industry association. Groups offer a number of paths to networking from annual meetings to workgroups and web newsletters.

I recommend: Through Globalwood, you’ll be in touch with a number of import and export portals and be able to join groups to build on your global trade business. Join the Hardwood Plywood Veneer Association to develop relationships and learn about import and export opportunities through the group’s seminars and other programs.

Bring your international lumber exporter in-house

If your company is moving more and more to overseas trading and financing, then you might be in a position to hire a professional with expertise in importing and exporting lumber products. Consider bringing on a project management team to work onsite and manage your import and export business.

I recommend: ITX Corporation can provide onsite training and project management for all your lumber import export deals. Advantage Lumber is a direct importer of lumber that can work as your middleman.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When the fees and retainers of consultants are more than the annual salary of an in-house lumber import services specialist, it may be time to increase your staff.