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Selling Imported Goods in the United States: Get Started With This Small Business Checklist

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Selling imported goods within the United States can be a lucrative business opportunity. High demand for imported products, such as artisan crafts, furniture, and even food and beverage products such as olive oils, wine, etc., represent a significant market opportunity for savvy business owners. Margins of up to 700% can be lucrative indeed.

If you are interested in importing and selling overseas goods into the U.S. market—whether you are based in the United States or not—you will need to do your research regarding both the country of export and the country of import (the United States).

Here are some business and regulatory tips to guide you through the process of selling imported goods in the United States:

Before you do anything, check import rejection laws and trade barriers

In addition to determining the market opportunity for a particular product or range of imported products, be sure to check U.S. trade barriers and local in-country laws to be certain that you can actually export your chosen goods out of the country of origin into the United States.

While the United States is very import friendly, it does have stringent safety and quality controls that don't exist outside its borders. Likewise, foreign nations sometimes restrict the export of religious ornaments, rare items, or protected goods. For example, certain animal by-products (such as furs and ivory) as well as fake designer goods are banned or are governed by export restrictions.

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If you wish to import or sell agricultural products into the United States, the Food Safety and Inspection Service provides information to help you comply with the laws that govern the import of meat, poultry, and egg products.

Formally set up your own business

Consider formalizing your business entity before you start pursuing importing opportunities and engage in any regulatory practices. Read The Complete 35-Step Guide for Entrepreneurs Starting a Business for a step-by-step guide to the planning, financial, and legal steps involved in starting a business.

If you are a foreign national and plan to import and do business in the United States, read How to Start a Business in the U.S. as a Foreigner for guidance on tax and legal obligations.

Build relationships and network on the ground in the export country

As with all wholesale procurement, you will want to meet with the producer or distributor of the product(s) you will be selling. Try to establish whether the company you are dealing with has export experience and request references.

Consider hiring a customs broker

Many people who are in the business of importing goods into the United States choose to use a customs broker to help facilitate the laws and regulations that apply to their business, including licenses, taxes, and duty fees. A customs broker prepares all the documentation needed for importing goods, just as a freight forwarder does for exporters. You can search for a certified customs broker at the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA).

Check whether you require a license or permit to import certain goods

Many imported and exported products are regulated by federal agencies. If you import or export any of the types of products listed by the government, you may be required to obtain specific licenses and permits, or to complete additional paperwork. A customs broker can also help with this aspect of importing goods.

Selling imported goods: retail and distribution options

How will you sell your imported wares? There are a number of options from reselling your products to niche independent stores to selling direct at fairs, festivals, and markets. You can also set up your own retail store—read Everything You Need to Know to Start a Retail Business for more information.

Online retailing or "e-tailing" is a useful option if you happen to be based outside the United States and wish to sell to the U.S. market. But be sure to set up your e-commerce website using a U.S. domain and host it on a U.S. server.

Additional resources

  • Export.gov: Export.gov brings together resources from across the U.S. Government to assist American businesses in planning their international sales strategies and succeed in today's global marketplace.
  • Festival Network Online: Information on buying and selling imported goods at craft shows and fairs across the country. Search events and more.

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Profile: Caron Beesley

Caron Sharp has over 14 years of experience working in marketing, with a particular focus on the government sector. She writes the Government Resources for Business blog on AllBusiness.