How to Export from Britain

Globalising your company has never been easier, the Internet has opened up international sales opportunities to even the smallest of businesses. But before you can ship your wares to countries all around the globe, you need to get to grips not only with UK Export, but also what will make your business successful abroad.
Instructions
Step 1
Carry out extensive market research before you take this big step. It's imperative you understand the structure of the foreign industry before going ahead.
Step 2
Draw up an export plan including your marketing strategy and how you will finance your move into an international market. Remember to take into account Britain's export law and associated costs.
Step 3
Decide how you are going to operate your business abroad. You could set up your own offices out there, try selling directly through the Internet or search for a suitable distributor or sales agent in the country.
Step 4
Choose which methods of promotion and marketing would be suitable for your business in other countries.
Step 5
If your business sells a specific product, consider whether it might have to be altered in order to make it exportable. Logos and packaging might have to be changed to make the product acceptable in another country.
Step 6
Get up to speed on the VAT laws of Britain before beginning to export. Outside the EU, any products exported will also have to be declared to HM Revenue & Customs.
Step 7
Be prepared to make an application for an export licence if your exports are controlled. Products such as weapons, art, medicines and animals will all require an export licence.
Step 8
Find the best mode of transport for your exports. Ensure that you have the right paperwork for the Customs process when your goods leave Britain. You could employ an International Freight Forwarder, who will take care of the whole journey for you.
Tips & Warnings
Get in touch with UK Trade & Investments, which is a government organisation designed to help UK businesses succeed in the global market. They'll be able to offer you advice and practical help to get you started, including the Passport to Export programme which offers ongoing mentoring and market training.
Resources
· UK Trade and Investment