Businesses that sell overseas can be more competitive, profitable and can grow their sales faster. Here we look at the key topics that businesses should consider when exporting for the first time.
Weigh up the benefits and barriers of exporting
Selling overseas can yield huge benefits to your business, including:
- extra sales
- competitor advantages
- spreading your market risk
Take time to create an export action plan that identifies your business strengths as well as any areas of weakness where you need to improve. Determining whether your business is export-ready or not can have a marked difference in your future global success.
Research your international markets
With so many potential customers across the globe, it can be tempting to target them all at once. However, by undertaking research and choosing key markets for your product or service, you could save your business valuable time and money. Use your international research as a guide for future marketing decisions and be prepared to adapt your approach when expanding to a different customer demographic or country.
Be aware of customs procedures
All exporters have a legal responsibility for the products and services they sell. HMRC require key information before goods can leave the UK, along with requiring you to submit an export customs declaration. Check the requirements in advance, make sure you know what documentation you must produce, and keep up to date on UK customs procedures.
Consider your pricing and route to market
British companies often under-price their goods and services, without considering local market conditions. The market research you conducted at the start of your strategy will help determine your export price. Also consider the length of your supply chain and the best route to market and gain as much information as possible before negotiating with a possible representative such as an in-market agent.
Decide how to get paid
Different methods of payment comes with different levels of risk depending on whether you’re the exporter or importer. With international payments, there are also different exchange rates and currencies to consider. Explore options such as:
- advance payment
- letters of credit
- documentary collections
- an open account
Brush up on Incoterms®
Incoterms® (International Commercial Terms) clarify functions and cost and risk between the buyer and the seller, as required by the sales contract. By having a clear understanding of responsibility before purchase, they can help form a contract that benefits both parties.
Take time to review the different terms and fully explore the benefits and risks of each one. It’s worth noting that Incoterms® do not replace insurance policies but do indicate where the responsibility lies.
Check for export controls
Some goods, software, and technologies are restricted or prohibited by international export controls, to align with security, policy and other obligations.
You may require an export license or permit to approve the sale of your product or service. This includes ‘dual-use goods’, which may not be designed for military use, but is capable of doing so, including electronics, chemicals, and marine equipment.
The UK Export Academy launched in 2020 and is a free online training programme, brought to you by expert international trade specialists. It's designed to give UK businesses of all sizes the confidence and know-how to grow sales of their goods and services around the world.
Visit the website to sign up for free today and book your first event. For more information, email the UK Export Academy team.
3 comments
Comment by Simon Whitwick posted on
Great article with useful tips, thanks for sharing.
Export Academy looks like it will be of benefit to me too.
Comment by LB posted on
What a great resource!
Comment by Matt Ball posted on
Great article, found this really informative and will use going forward