Start your international trading close to home with customs brokers in the Americas

While the world is certainly getting smaller all the time, differences in trade regulations are pervasive and complicated. If you are just starting trading globally, start close to home in Canada or Mexico to test the waters with non-US based customs brokers. US based manufacturers have been trading to the north and south for longer than many overseas markets. In addition, there will be fewer language barriers with your non-us based customs broker because of this experience.

I recommend: BTC Logistics is a Canadian foreign customs broker with contacts in many countries outside the US limited partnerships, such as Cuba. They are close enough to easily visit, allowing you room to build that personal relationship into the business ties. ACI Logistics is a Mexican foreign customs broker with extensive experience in non-us trade customs, particularly to Europe.

Take time to find the right non-US trade brokers for your business

In addition to the broad import/export rules in each country, various regulations apply to different products. There are non-us trade brokers who specialize in apparel and fabric; other customs brokers outside the US have more experience with agriculture or machinery. While you may find a solid relationship with a general foreign customs broker, it could make business flow even smoother if you found a non-US based customs broker who deals exclusively with your products.

I recommend: Trade Key is a subscription database of more than 300,000 non-US customs brokers. Members also have access to information about non-US based customs brokers through networking and referral services. China Directory Online is another good place to start looking for non-US trade brokers in one of the most profitable trading countries in the world.

Branch out with assistance from your foreign customs broker

Once you have found a customs broker outside the US with whom you have a good relationship, you can turn to that non-US based customs broker for advice about emerging markets. Make sure that your non-US trade broker keeps track of trends and is willing to work with your company to expand.

I recommend: Loch M Fraser is an Australian foreign customs broker that also provides consultation services to its clients. Marlink International Shipping Logistics is a non-US trade customs firm located in Argentina with extensive experience in global markets. They provide education and consultation, in addition to freight forwarding services.