Import Distribution & Trading
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Overview
Import distributors source products from overseas manufacturers and distribute to US retailers and businesses.
With imported goods massive and manufacturers needing US distribution, importing generates revenue of $170,000-$630,000 with 25-40% margins.
The business requires overseas supplier relationships, customs and import expertise, warehouse space, working capital for containers, and buyer network.
Services include overseas sourcing and procurement, customs clearance and import compliance, warehousing imported products, distribution to US buyers, and consolidating shipments.
Revenue through markup from landed cost.
Success factors include strong overseas manufacturer relationships, understanding customs and import regulations, managing container logistics and timing, building US buyer network, and choosing product categories with strong margins.
Marketing focuses on US retailers, distributors, and buyer trade shows.
With import/export trade massive and overseas manufacturing dominant in 2025, import distribution offers global opportunities bringing products to US market.
Required Skills
- International sourcing
- Customs and import regulations
- Container logistics
- Overseas communication
- Product quality control
- US buyer relationships
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High margins on overseas sourcing
- Global product access
- Growing import market
- Multiple product categories
- Relationship-based barriers
Cons
- Complex customs and compliance
- Large working capital for containers
- Overseas communication challenges
- Quality control from distance
- Long lead times
How to Get Started
- Develop overseas supplier relationships
- Study customs regulations
- Secure warehouse space
- Arrange financing for containers
- Build US buyer network
- Manage import compliance
- Handle logistics and timing
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