Tips on How to Export to the US

The United States of America is the richest market. But trying to penetrate and finding success in this market is not so easy, as it is fast paced, extremely competitive, and unforgiving. An exporter who attempts to do business in this type of market without careful planning will often stumble, if not sink. But a highly prepared business establishment with a very good product and positions the product logically could do well in the US.

So how do you increase your chances of gaining success in such tough market? Here are some helpful tips:

1. Get a handle on United States regional markets. The market in the US is actually a big puzzle of a number of regional markets, each with its very own key service and industrial sectors, and economic characteristics. Depending on the product you have, some regional markets could offer your business more opportunities compared to others. So doing the market research is very important.

2. Get your marketing and product right. Even though the consumer and business environments in the United States are similar to that in your country, you may still have to make some modifications to your product, your sales approach, and/or your product's packaging to meet the expectations of potential customers in the US. Always remember the regional differences -- what works very well in a certain region may be otherwise in another.

3. Make sure that your company is export ready. Take a very close look at your business to check if you will have to improve your production, managerial, and financial capacity to meet the different demands of a foreign market. Also, your business will need a detailed export plan which includes your goals on exporting to the US and how you can achieve those goals.

4. Seek advice from the professionals. The American legal and business environments are very complex and differ from one state to another. At an international level, the rules and regulations in customs that govern US imports and exports are quite complicated and could be a challenge to follow. This means that getting expert advice regarding laws, taxes, and compliance must be part of your export operations and planning at all times.

5. Visit the certain US market where you intended to do business in. But before you fly, contact the trade commissioner service in your country for that specific region in the US. Trade commissioners could give you helpful information on local companies and market prospects, and could help you with in-person meetings, contact introductions and searches.

6. Choose the right entry method. There are a number of methods to enter the American trade market. The simplest ways is the direct selling or traditional exporting. Depending on the needs of your business, you can choose a branch office or a representative in the US, or build a subsidiary in the US. Establishing a joint venture with an American company or buying an existing business in the United States, are some of the options you have.

7. Get your finances in order. Most business establishments work with the respective banks to get capital for their local operations. But it could be more difficult to get finances for international operations, as the risks are a lot higher.


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