Can goods from the UK be cheaper than China goods?

Raintaker:
Can goods from the UK be cheaper than China goods?

Can they? Yes. However in most cases no.

The UK does not compete directly with China on price but rather on "quality" and "reliability". It also depends on the type of goods you're importing. In my opinion, I would advise those new to importing to start from the UK, where a plethora of information is readily available, language barrier makes it easier to negotiate with suppliers. As you gain more experience, then you can enter into the Chinese and other markets. Obviously this applies to those that want to really learn export/import commerce.

Zelex9:


Can they? Yes. However in most cases no.

The UK does not compete directly with China on price but rather on "quality" and "reliability". It also depends on the type of goods you're importing. In my opinion, I would advise those new to importing to start from the UK, where a plethora of information is readily available, language barrier makes it easier to negotiate with suppliers. As you gain more experience, then you can enter into the Chinese and other markets. Obviously this applies to those that want to really learn export/import commerce.

But there exists this situation where you can start small by importing from China, you can import 5- 20 goods for starters, does that exist in the UK as well?

Raintaker:
But there exists this situation where you can start small by importing from China, you can import 5- 20 goods for starters, does that exist in the UK as well?

Indeed. The opportunity exists in China to start importing smaller quantities. I was referring more at a wholesale level than a ecommerce platform. Yes, the opportunity to import 5-20 (I tend to see mostly 15+ though) is available in the UK. The most important factor is finding a reliable supplier, wherever you are in the world.

Thanks to all of those that made contact and I hope you have gotten further on your importing journey. I would just like to reiterate that it would be helpful on my behalf, if I could be contacted either through: info@ogongo.co.uk or obehizele@gmail.com

Regards

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A tip for those searching for suppliers, don't feel intimidated by trade prices

Trade suppliers rarely release true trade prices publicly. In some cases they give out retail prices because they are not keen to let their competitors know what their unit prices are.

Here's how to get true trade prices:

-contact the supplier directly, either by email or phone
-provide as many details about your business as possible, including your full contact details.

Suppliers also want to know how long you have been in business, where you are trading (online or offline), and what your forecast yearly order volume is going to be. A simple request for a price quote is likely to be ignored.

Never be put off by the trade prices you see publicly as they are rarely a reflection of the true wholesale prices a supplier can offer you.

Contact: info@ogongo.co.uk

Despite specialising on UK commerce, I have been receiving emails from some interested in establishing relationships with Chinese suppliers. While I am far from what you would call a expert, here a few tips.

1.You should beware of name brand goods originating from China, in fact you should probably run in the other direction if someone in China offers you branded products, since they are unlikely to be authentic.

2. You are also aware that each Chinese supplier should be thoroughly verified before placing an order (I can assist in this aspect)

3. Order small amounts until you have established a trusted relationship

4. Purchase by credit card if possible (or through an escrow arrangement)

5. Avoid wire transfers and Western Union where possible

6. For larger orders, hire an inspection company to ensure that you will receive the proper goods.

Contact: info@ogongo.co.uk

I feel it is important for those involved in importing/exporting to understand the different types of documentation required, regardless of whether you use a freight forwarder or decide to clear goods yourself. Whilst you probably don't need to understand the technicalities it would be useful to be aware of their purpose.

Documents required for an international sale can vary significantly from transaction to transaction, depending on the destination and the product being shipped. At a minimum, there will be two documents: the invoice and the transport document. The buyer will usually provide the seller with a list of documents needed to get the goods into his country

Bill of Exchange/Draft

If the transaction will be paid by letter of credit (L/C) or documentary collection (DC), a bill of exchange or draft is required. This document is a demand for payment drawn by the seller on the payee. The payee specified on a letter of credit draft is almost always a bank. For a documentary collection the payee is the buyer.

Bill of Lading

A contract between the owner of the goods and the carrier (as with domestic shipments). For vessels, there are two types: a straight bill of lading which is non-negotiable and a negotiable or shipper's order bill of lading. The latter can be bought, sold, or traded while the goods are in transit. The customer usually needs an original as proof of ownership to take possession of the goods.

Certificate of Origin

A signed statement certifying the country of origin of the goods being sold is sometimes required by regulation in the buyer's country. This document may be as simple as a certificate signed by the seller. Certain countries may require it to be issued by a third party such as a Chamber of Commerce, or be notarised, legalised, or visaed by their Embassy or Consulate.

Commercial Invoice

A bill for the goods from the seller to the buyer. These invoices are often used by governments to determine the true value of goods when assessing customs duties. Governments that use the commercial invoice to control imports will often specify its form, content, number of copies, language to be used, and other characteristics.

An invoice typically includes:

Seller's name and address
Buyer's name and address
Issue Date
Invoice Number
Shipping marks and numbers
Terms of Sale: e.g. FOB, etc.
Shipping information
Info required by L/C
Country of Origin
L/C number
Merchandise description, P.O. number, unit price, and total price
Consular Invoice

Some countries do not allow the import of merchandise unless accompanied by a certificate issued by one of its officials in the exporter's country. These certificates evidence that the shipment meets certain statutory or other regulations of the importing country. A visaed invoice is an original or copy of an invoice, which has been originally signed and/or stamped by a consulate official.

Destination Control Statement

Appears on the commercial invoice, and ocean or air waybill of lading to notify the carrier and all foreign parties that the item can be exported only to certain destinations.

Dock Receipt and Warehouse Receipt

Used to transfer accountability when the export item is moved by the domestic carrier to the port of embarkation and left with the ship line for export.

Export Packing List

Considerably more detailed and informative than a standard domestic packing list, it itemises the material in each individual package and indicates the type of package, such as a box, crate, drum, or carton.

Inspection Certificate

Required by some purchasers and countries in order to attest to the specifications of the goods shipped. This is usually performed by a third party and often obtained from independent testing organisations.

Insurance Certificate

Every international sale should be covered by insurance. Who provides the coverage depends on the INCOTERM used.

Packing List

A mirror of the merchandise covered by the invoice, the packing list omit prices, but itemises the merchandise by number of cartons, packages, etc., and the contents of each.

Shipper's Export Declaration

This is the most common of all export documents. It is used to compile trade statistics and to help prevent illegal exports.

Temporary Import Certificate / ATA CARNET

An ATA CARNET is a document that facilitates the temporary importation of products into foreign countries by eliminating tariffs and value-added taxes (VAT) or the posting of a security deposit normally required at the time of importation.

Weight Certificate

This document breaks down the shipment by weight. This is generally needed only if a 'certificate' is required.

Source:eSource

Contact: info@ogongo.co.uk

What is stopping me from importing is that...... i want to avoid HYPERTENSION @ all cost!!!!!!!

#Preventionisbetterthancure!!!

Worrying /Thinking too much alone is stressful & it's not easy to trust someone.

The risk involve is HIGH.

YmodulusBabe:
What is stopping me from importing is that...... i want to avoid HYPERTENSION @ all cost!!!!!!!

#Preventionisbetterthancure!!!

Worrying /Thinking too much alone is stressful & it's not easy to trust someone.

The risk involve is HIGH.

Indeed, what you say is correct. Not everybody is comfortable with taking risk (particularly a risk that will likely have high financial consequences). However, there is a plethora of information available on the internet for those interested in import/export to get acquainted with definitions, terminologies, advice etc before taking the calculated risk. Whilst there are many who are struggling or are skeptical of delving into this industry, there are those who are hitting it big. Why can't you be one of the success stories?

Zelex9:
Despite specialising on UK commerce, I have been receiving emails from some interested in establishing relationships with Chinese suppliers. While I am far from what you would call a expert, here a few tips.

1.You should beware of name brand goods originating from China, in fact you should probably run in the other direction if someone in China offers you branded products, since they are unlikely to be authentic.

2. You are also aware that each Chinese supplier should be thoroughly verified before placing an order (I can assist in this aspect)

3. Order small amounts until you have established a trusted relationship

4. Purchase by credit card if possible (or through an escrow arrangement)

5. Avoid wire transfers and Western Union where possible

6. For larger orders, hire an inspection company to ensure that you will receive the proper goods.

Contact: info@ogongo.co.uk

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