Food and Beverage Importers and Exporters Basics

Becoming food importers and exporters

Food and beverage importers and exporters basics begins with a look at different parts involved in exporting and importing food and beverages. Regulatory bodies of both countries play a big role. Creating a business plan, shipping, terms of payment, fees and taxes -- its not all about the product. Some of the things you need to consider are the following.

1. Is there a market for your product?

2. Are sales reps for food imports and exports reliable?

3. What does the product cost, what are the costs for shipping and how do you price your product?

4. Licensing and compliance between the US and other countries.

5. Customs, state and local taxes are additional costs.

6. Consider profits -- how much will you spend on food imports or exports?

Exporting and importing require dealing with governments and agencies, not to mention marketers and advertising. Look into all the necessary requirements before committing to becoming an exporter or importer.

 

Find out more about the legal aspects of food importers and distributors

Food importers are the "middlemen." Importers of food buy from suppliers and sell to the retailers. The trade rules of each country are enforced. The US has commercial trade agreements with some countries, and additional rules and regulations can apply.
Try: The US Customs website gives you basic information on trade rules and regulations. Its download section lists all the forms and requirements a food importer needs. Beverage importers need to work with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives if you wish to import beverages made with alcohol.

Look into the details of food exporters

Exporting food requires more planning and analyzing markets. If you are importing, the assumption is that you already know who or where your market is. But, exporting requires finding buyers or markets that want your products. Some producers who wish to export their food or beverages hire companies to find these markets for them.
Try: The Cheese Exchange (cheese exporters), gives a good example of the market forces they face -- even though cheese exports have gone up 40%. You will have to do the same kind of analysis for your products. World Export & Import Link is a company that finds markets for food exporters and their products. It will also provide marketing plans for your products -- all at a price.

Increase your knowledge of the world of food importers and distributors

If you are thinking of importing or exporting, the industry itself can provide you with help in setting up your business.
Try: US Food Export Showcase is a great opportunity to see the food export work at large. You can make connections with other exporters and talk shop. If you are interested in exporting organic food, the Organic Trade Association directory can lead you to the right connections. Food importers can get information by joining the Association of Food Industries. To import beverages you can refer to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau.

 

• Food and beverage importers and exporters basics means getting all your ducks lined up before you invest in importing or exporting your product.

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