Everything moves at such a fast pace nowadays that, to compete in the world of business, you need to have something that will make you stand out among your competitors, and this could be as simple as your exportation of goods.
You expect the products that you import will be delivered with the same high standard every time and others will expect the same when they are dealing with your business.
Having a high standard of exporting will show that you are a trusted company and that your customers can rely on you time after time.
The importance of logistics
Never underestimate the importance of this as, without it, your business might not be running as smoothly as it is right now.
Logistics is the detailed organisation and implementation of a complex operation that can be applied to information, transportation, inventory, warehousing, material handling, and packing, disposal and security.
It is what allows the efficient flow and storage of goods to get from the point of origin to the end target.
Transporting your goods
Shipping your goods via a truck will save you a lot more money than if you chose to transport by air. Although vehicles will take longer to reach their destination in comparison to a plane, it is worth taking into account how many goods you are exporting daily, weekly and yearly. The way you export will affect your finances significantly due to the amount of fuel needed, even if it goes the same distance.
However, it is good to take into consideration that, if you want to put your customers first, and if they want the goods sooner rather than later, air travel might be necessary sometimes.
Why you should use containers
The choice of storage for your goods when traveling is vital as it can affect the quality of delivery. Using a container will:
- Minimise the risk of damage if packed correctly.
- Reduce the risk of pilferage if a container is full, so sending across a big order is recommended if it is traveling a lot of miles, e.g. overseas.
- Arrive in top condition to your buyer.
Exporting it in a container will guarantee you a better and safer condition in comparison to exporters who don’t use containers. You can also save money as the packing costs are reduced if it is a shipping container.
Importing goods from outside the US
Some laws and regulations have to be in place in order to trade products across the globe, e.g. customs are at every county’s border to stop illegal goods being sent into the country.
Importing goods from the UK, such as from Kloeckner Metals, which sells steel and aluminum products including sheets, tubes, and plates, won’t require you to have a license to import compared to more sensitive goods like plants, animal or dairy products and medications. However, you will still be required to have the necessary documents to have the imported goods released to you.
Customs declaration
Once you have the appropriate documents, Customs will decide if they want to examine your shipment to check that you aren’t violating any laws or regulations.
It’s important that you build relationships with customs officials – each country have customs that are in charge of what comes in and out of the so when importing or exporting understand your country regulations to can avoid being charged, or your goods being confiscated.