Import-Export: The challenges of international trade and how to overcome them
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Getting into the import-export business is a golden opportunity to access unique products, benefit from competitive prices, and develop a large-scale business. But beware, it's not a smooth ride! Between customs, logistics, legislation, and unreliable suppliers , the obstacles are numerous.
In this article, we explain the main challenges of importing and exporting , and above all, how to avoid them to ensure the success of your business.
🚨 1. Find reliable suppliers (and avoid scams)
The problem : It all starts with choosing the right supplier . With the rise of platforms like Alibaba or Global Sources, it's easy to find a supplier... but not always a GOOD supplier!
🔴 Risk of counterfeits or poor quality
🔴 Production deadlines not met
🔴 Fake suppliers who disappear after payment
💡 How to avoid these pitfalls?
✅ Don't rely solely on platform reviews . Check the provider's seniority and ask for their certifications .
✅ Avoid excessive advances and favor secure payments (via a trusted third party or a letter of credit).
✅ Use a trusted intermediary : At Born2Succeed, we already select the best suppliers to save you this headache.
🚢 2. Unexpected customs and tax issues
The problem : Importing also means dealing with administrative paperwork and customs regulations .
🔴 High customs duties on certain products
🔴 Import bans in certain countries
🔴 Lack of product compliance with local standards
💡 How to avoid these blockages?
✅ Find out about applicable taxes before importing. Your product's HS (Harmonized System) code lets you know the exact fees.
✅ Choose suppliers who already comply with your country's standards to avoid blocking controls.
✅ Use a freight forwarder or customs agent to manage formalities and avoid unpleasant surprises.
📦 3. Delivery times and complex logistics
The problem : You've found the right product , but it still has to arrive on time and in good condition !
🔴 Delays due to strikes, customs or port surcharges
🔴 Shipping costs higher than expected
🔴 Lost or damaged packages
💡 How to ensure reliable delivery?
✅ Choose the right mode of transport : plane (fast but expensive), sea (cheap but long), or express (DHL, FedEx).
✅ Always ask for a clear contract with your carrier and insure your goods .
✅ Use a supplier with local warehouses to shorten lead times (Born2Succeed already offers this option on certain products 🚀).
💰 4. Poor cost and margin management
The problem : You find a cheap product, but between customs fees, shipping and bank charges, your margins melt like snow in the sun .
🔴 Hidden costs not anticipated (taxes, storage, etc.)
🔴 Unfavorable currency conversion
🔴 Fluctuation in raw material prices
💡 How to secure your profitability?
✅ Calculate ALL costs before setting your prices (product + transport + taxes + storage).
✅ Favor payments in local currency or via a multi-currency account (Wise, Revolut Business).
✅ Buy in volume to reduce fixed costs and negotiate better terms with your suppliers.
🔄 5. After-sales service and customer returns
The problem : Once the product is imported and sold, good customer service must be provided .
🔴 Unhappy customers in case of defects
🔴 Difficulty managing international returns
🔴 Warranty and after-sales service issues
💡 How to avoid these problems?
✅ Work with suppliers who guarantee a minimum of quality and always check a sample before ordering in bulk .
✅ Offer local guarantees and alternative solutions (partial reimbursement, rapid replacement).
✅ Use an intermediate storage warehouse to more easily manage returns and after-sales service.
🚀 Conclusion: Start your import-export with peace of mind
Import-export is an incredible opportunity , but every mistake can be costly . To succeed, you need to anticipate problems and surround yourself with the right suppliers and partners .
✅ At Born2Succeed, we select reliable and validated suppliers to avoid unpleasant surprises.
✅ Our supplier packs allow you to directly access the right contacts , without wasting time searching and negotiating.
✅ We update our listings regularly to ensure you get the best opportunities.
👉 Don't waste weeks searching, start your business today with a turnkey supplier package!
📦 Discover our packs and get started now!