Importing goods from the far east...

[Gordon N]

Right, I have got a wee idea for an ecommerce business for my wife to run (she is not fully on board yet but I am working on it!). I have seen a couple of potential suppliers of the products I am after in China and am waiting on some information and sample products from them just now.

My question is, having never imported any goods from abroad what rules and regs etc should I read up on? Is there anyone on the forum who has experience of this kind of thing that would be willing to help me learn the ropes?

Regards,

Gordon

 

[Scottish Business Owner]

All I will say Gordon is make sure you do loads of research. Both times I have bought from China I have been slapped with import duty and taxes which basically eroded any savings I had made. I've heard of people saying you can get stuff in without duty by declaring the item as a gift but people will soon cotton on that this is becoming a business.

Are you a member of your local chamber of commerce? I'm sure they have people who are very aware of import and export rules etc

 

[Power Lunch Club]

All I will say Gordon is make sure you do loads of research. Both times I have bought from China I have been slapped with import duty and taxes which basically eroded any savings I had made. I've heard of people saying you can get stuff in without duty by declaring the item as a gift but people will soon cotton on that this is becoming a business.

Are you a member of your local chamber of commerce? I'm sure they have people who are very aware of import and export rules etc

That's right...even the mighty Richard Branson spent some time in jail for not paying import duty.

's right....do as much research as possible on this one.

 

[davidc]

Hi Gordon. Get in touch with HM Customs and Excise. You will find them really helpful. I also found the Department of Trade and Industry helpful. They will also put you in touch with their colleagues in China, who will help at that end.
Importing can be a pain with all the regulations, and paperwork, but remember the rewards are there. Good on you. Hope you have as much fun as I did.