1. Market Research & Sourcing:
- Market Analysis: Identifying potential markets for a client's products (for export) or identifying products in demand within a target market (for import). This includes assessing market size, trends, competition, and consumer preferences.
- Supplier/Buyer Identification: Finding reliable suppliers for imported goods or qualified buyers for exported products, often leveraging a global network of contacts.
- Product Feasibility Studies: Evaluating the viability of a product for international trade, considering factors like pricing, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
2. Logistics & Supply Chain Management:
- Transportation Management: Arranging and coordinating various modes of transport (ocean freight, air freight, rail, road) to ensure efficient and cost-effective movement of goods. This includes booking cargo space, negotiating rates, and selecting appropriate carriers.
- Warehousing & Storage: Arranging for storage of goods at origin, transit points, or destination, including managing inventory and distribution.
- Freight Forwarding: Acting as an intermediary to arrange shipping and logistics on behalf of the client, often consolidating shipments to achieve better rates.
- Customs Clearance: Managing all aspects of customs procedures, including preparing and submitting necessary documentation, calculating and paying duties and taxes, and ensuring compliance with import/export regulations in both countries.
- Insurance: Arranging cargo insurance to protect against loss or damage during transit.
3. Documentation & Compliance:
- Export/Import Documentation: Preparing and managing a vast array of complex documents, such as commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading/airway bills, certificates of origin, export licenses, phytosanitary certificates, and customs declarations.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to international trade laws, treaties, and regulations, including tariffs, quotas, product standards, labeling requirements, and import/export restrictions in all relevant countries.
- Customs Consulting: Providing expert advice on customs regulations, tariffs, and trade agreements to optimize trade processes and minimize costs.
4. Financial Services & Risk Management:
- Trade Finance Facilitation: Assisting with various payment methods and trade finance instruments like Letters of Credit (LCs), Documentary Collections, and open accounts, often through banking partnerships.
- Currency Exchange Management: Advising on and mitigating risks associated with currency fluctuations.
- Credit Risk Assessment: Evaluating the creditworthiness of international buyers or suppliers to mitigate payment risks.
- Risk Mitigation: Developing strategies to address other risks inherent in international trade, such as political instability, logistics disruptions, and product quality issues.
5. Negotiation & Contract Management:
- Price & Terms Negotiation: Negotiating favorable terms of sale, pricing, payment schedules, and delivery terms with suppliers and buyers on behalf of their clients.
- Contract Review & Drafting: Ensuring that contracts are legally sound and protect the client's interests in international transactions.
6. Marketing & Sales Support (especially for export management companies - EMCs):
- International Sales Representation: Acting as the client's sales force in foreign markets.
- Marketing & Promotion: Developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote products in international markets, including participation in trade shows and online platforms.
- Brand Development: Assisting with adapting products and branding for international appeal.
7. Consulting & Advisory Services:
- International Trade Consulting: Providing strategic advice on market entry strategies, supply chain optimization, and international business development.
- Logistics Consulting: Offering expertise on efficient and cost-effective shipping and warehousing solutions.
- Legal & Regulatory Advisory: Guiding clients through the complexities of international trade laws and compliance.