Introduction >> Import/Export Plan

An import/export plan can help a business identify the hurdles that may need to be overcome, and develop a realistic idea of the business practices that will be utilized and how soon a profit could be realized. An import/export plan is a tool that is often overlooked, but should always be developed before embarking on an international trade venture. Just like developing a business or marketing plan, the import/export plan will be a roadmap that outlines the steps the business will take to make their venture successful. It is a tool to show to lending institutions why the idea to expand globally is a good investment for your business. It can also be used to show the different business partners involved in the transaction what goals and outcomes can be expected.

When first developing a plan, a business may not have all the information needed to complete it. You may refine the plan as you continue to conduct research and collect additional relevant information.

The Import/Export Plan is very important to the success of the international trade objectives for a business. Some of the questions to consider include:

• How will you measure success or failure?
• How will you know what markets are potential opportunities?
• How will you know what an acceptable time-frame for profitability is?
• What will you use to sell bankers or other financing institutions on your idea?
• How will you appraise your idea without conducting a SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunities, threats) analysis?
• What legal documents including licenses and permits will you need?
• What are the breakdowns of costs for the global activity?
• How will you find leads for trade?

Follow your import/export plan. Update it as circumstances change so you can stay on track with it. It will be a good resource for showing others what you have done, where you plan to go, and what you plan to accomplish by expanding globally. You can view a sample export plan at www.export.gov/.