UPS knows exporting can be a game-changer for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Companies that ship cross-border see faster sales growth.
“Exporting is a must for SMBs,” said Shaquana ‘Shaq’ Teasley, Founder and CEO of Agate Solutions, an international trade consulting agency. “Your competition is global, therefore you must be prepared to compete and win globally. Don’t count yourself out!”
It doesn’t have to be complicated: SMBs often sink time and effort into shipments that are delayed, seized, fined or even banned at the border. At UPS, our experts say to avoid these four mistakes for smooth international shipping:
- Missing documents: Did you forget the invoice? Your package might get held at the border. Make sure to include all the right documents to avoid delays.
- Vague descriptions: Include a detailed description of your shipment. Stay away from general terms like “watch” or “medicine” or “electronics”. Instead, describe what the product is made of, how it was made and what it was made to do. The Dictionary of International Trade is a great resource.
- Incorrect value: Be sure to declare the actual value of the merchandise you’re shipping and match that to your documents, or you guessed it – a customs hold.
- Improper Incoterms: Did you say, "What are Incoterms?" They define who pays for and manages the shipment, insurance, documentation and customs clearance. Understand your liability as a buyer or seller when exporting.
“A lot of SMBs hesitate to export because generally, they want to keep overhead costs down,” said Shaq. “There’s a misconception that exporting requires expensive international trade attorneys – that’s a big myth.”
Ready. Set. Grow. For SMBs ready to start exporting, there are a lot of resources out there to help:
- Start with checking out UPS’s webinars on international shipping.
- Networking with other businesses can help you take part in the global business community. Start by joining a chamber of commerce that aligns with your exporting goals.
- UPS has the tools and know-how that SMBs need to grow their businesses globally. Connect with a UPS logistics expert to learn more.
- Agate Solutions specializes in helping small businesses avoid common exporting mistakes and grow their global footprint.