Our top 5 tips for first time exporters

Exporting your goods can seem like a huge task. Making your goods attractive to overseas customers is important. It is vital that logistics, transport and documentation are right before you begin. Here are some of the most important things to think about.....

 Use incoterms in your sales contract

Using incoterms pre-determines each party’s responsibility for that shipment. They are internationally used and recognised in trade.

Cargo insurance

When you book shipments with a forwarder, shipping company or courier, you are only covered for a minimal value so you may need to take out extra cover.

Choose the best transport method

Shipping by sea is often cheaper with longer transport times, whereas air freight is quicker but more expensive. Choose the one that’s best for you and your customer.

Ensure you have the correct documentation

Research what is best for you and your shipment. Certain commodities and some countries require special documentation.

Choose a method of payment and terms you are comfortable with

A letter of credit is a common method of payment for overseas transactions but there are other ways as well.

Further information

Contact us at t.ward or see our website for further information

Exportingisgreat is a government resource with loads of information for first time exporters.

Exporting from the UK

 The UK government aim to increase UK exports by encouraging more businesses to sell their goods in global markets. The new government website ‘Exporting is great’ is an invaluable resource and guide for any company thinking of exporting goods for the first time. It is part of a ‘push to help a further 100,000 more UK businesses export by 2020.’

Exporting can be daunting for companies used to selling only within the UK, but the rewards are there for companies who sell to overseas markets.

“85% of companies say exporting has led to a level of growth not otherwise possible.”

Exporting is Great website

Exporting by smaller companies

At T.Ward Shipping, we have noticed a sharp rise in smaller organisations importing and exporting goods through platforms like Ebay and Amazon. Their cross border trade initiatives have opened up international sales for retailers of all sizes. Global trading companies like these have made selling to overseas markets more straightforward, but transport and logistics can still be confusing and complex.

Freight Forwarding

Transport and logistics

To transport your goods overseas, it will usually save time and money to recruit a freight forwarding company to arrange things for you.

Freight Forwarding Services

Freight forwarding is the movement of goods from one part of the world to another as economically and efficiently as possible. The aim is to ensure that cargo arrives at the right destination at the right time.As a freight forwarding company, we are responsible for choosing the best, cost effective distribution needs for our clients.

Although we are a very much a shipping company, we handle all aspects of the transportation by sea, air and land - sea freight, air freight and road freight. We can also arrange courier shipments.

Additional services we offer to customers who export goods are:

Assistance with incoterms (shipping terms)

Incoterms are trade terms used to define each of the obligations of seller and buyer when moving goods. The specific term makes it clear who is responsible for each aspect of the cost/risk at each stage of movement. You should always try and negotiate Incoterms into your sales contract, to avoid disputes at a later date. We explain some of the more common terms on this blog post.  

Your rights as an exporter

We help our clients understand where their responsibility as a seller ends and when the buyers responsibility begins.

Liability throughout the shipping process

It is important that an exporter understands their liabilities throughout the shipping process. This can save time and money should a dispute occur.

Assistance with letters of credit

A letter of credit is a guarantee from a bank that a seller will receive a payment due from a buyer. The bank guarantees that the seller will be paid an agreed amount of money by a certain date. The bank in question will require documents - for example shipping confirmation - as a proof that this agreement will be upheld.

More on exporting - useful links

Freight forwarding at T.Ward

Exporting is Great

Letters of credit explanation
Incoterms

Get in touch!

There is more information on our website.To talk to us about exporting and freight forwarding, please get in touch by phone +44 (0)131 554 1231 or email shipping@tward.co.uk

2017 - Time to review your transport and shipping services?

Freight rates and shipping companies in the UK

With the demise of Hanjin causing freight rates to rise, 2017 is a great time to compare your shipping and transport costs to and from the UK. Shipping rates are set to rise in 2017 for first time since 2010, according to forecasts. This could come as a shock to companies used to the low international transport costs we’ve enjoyed for some time now. Spending some time comparing services from different shipping companies in the UK is  worthwhile to ensure you are getting the best service and price you can.

Surge in Amazon and Ebay traders and their impact on shipping

Over the last twelve months, we have seen a surge in customers who sell their goods on Amazon and Ebay. Ebay and Amazon have launched cross border trade initiatives, opening up international sales for retailers of all sizes. Additionally, buyers on these platforms can find a bargain by shopping around internationally. They need a reliable shipping agent with competitive rates, and have been coming to us for help and advice. We don’t just work with the big names, we’re happy to assist individuals and small businesses. It is also vital that a transport company understands and applies customs and tax regulations. The UK Government publish advice on customs and tax on goods bought from overseas suppliers online.

Understanding customs procedures

We understand many people find getting information and advice on import/export customs procedures difficult, from understanding how import vat and duty works to how to classify your goods.  This is something we can assist you with and provide peace of mind that everything is being taken care of when you import or export your goods.

Transporting a wide range of goods

In 2016 we saw a vast range in cargo, including:

Classic Cars, Art Sculptures, Charitable goods, Fire Engines, manufactured goods from China, fire fighting equipment, rugs from India, project cargo, paintings, peonies and pipes.

We have dealt with large and small companies and individuals - no project is too big or too small.

Shipping to and from Scotland and the UK

Shipping from the UK can be challenging, especially when you are not familiar with the type of shipping company you are dealing with, the kind of handling , warehousing and transportation services you will need and how your items will be cleared at the destination address. With a reputable and competent shipping company, you don’t have to worry about getting your shipments. An ideal shipping company can get your goods delivered from the UK in the safest and timely manner.

At t. ward shipping we are experienced in handling consignments of all sizes and types and we offer our services to a wide range of Scottish and UK ports.