Import/Export Wholesale Trading

Import products from overseas or export domestic products internationally selling wholesale to distributors, retailers, and businesses

Startup Cost
$75,000-$400,000
Difficulty
Advanced
Time to Profit
12-24 months
Profit Potential
$12,000-$125,000/month

Overview

Import/export wholesalers source products internationally - importing from manufacturers overseas or exporting domestic products to international markets, selling wholesale to businesses and distributors.

Import margins typically 30-60% on landed cost.

Trading $750K-$5M in annual product volume generates $150,000-$1.5M+ gross profit with 10-25% net margins after costs.

Target customers include domestic retailers and distributors, international wholesalers and buyers, Amazon and e-commerce sellers, specialty importers, chain stores, and international markets.

Services include international product sourcing, customs and import compliance, international shipping and logistics, quality control and inspection, product adaptation for markets, and trade financing.

Success requires international trade knowledge, relationships with overseas manufacturers, understanding customs and trade regulations, managing international logistics, potentially import licenses and compliance, and building buyer relationships in target markets.

Required Skills

  • International Trade
  • Import/Export
  • Logistics
  • Customs Compliance
  • Supplier Relations

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • High margins on imported products
  • Global sourcing opportunities
  • Growing international e-commerce
  • Can find unique products overseas
  • Scalable through product lines

Cons

  • Complex international trade regulations
  • Significant capital for inventory
  • Currency and political risks
  • Long lead times for shipments
  • Quality control challenges overseas

How to Get Started

  1. Learn import/export trade regulations
  2. Source products from overseas manufacturers
  3. Understand customs and compliance
  4. Arrange international shipping and logistics
  5. Build relationships with domestic buyers
  6. Manage inventory and cash flow
  7. Scale through additional product lines

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