Import Export: A Complete Guide from A to Z

Basic Concepts of Import and Export

Import and export are the activities of buying and selling goods between countries. This is a potentially lucrative business field, but it also requires a thorough understanding of regulations, administrative procedures, and international market factors. This article provides an overview of the import and export process, giving you a clearer picture of this field.

Export Procedures

Preparing Export Documents

Step 1: Identify target markets and find customers. Step 2: Draft an export contract, ensuring clear terms regarding price, delivery time, payment terms, and other clauses. Step 3: Prepare all necessary documents such as: Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, etc., depending on the type of goods and the importing country.

Carrying out Export Customs Procedures

After preparing the complete documents, you need to submit them to the customs authority to complete the export procedures. This process includes inspecting goods, paying export taxes and fees (if any).

Shipping Goods

After completing customs procedures, the goods will be shipped to the importing country. You need to choose a suitable shipping method to ensure that the goods are shipped safely and on time.

Import Procedures

Preparing Import Documents

Similar to export procedures, you need to prepare all necessary documents such as: Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, import license (if any), etc.

Carrying out Import Customs Procedures

After the goods arrive at the port, you need to submit the documents to the customs authority to complete the import procedures. This process also includes inspecting goods, paying import taxes and fees.

Receiving Goods and Payment

After completing customs procedures, you can receive the goods and make payments to the supplier.

Risks in Import and Export

Import and export involve many risks, including market risks, political risks, shipping risks, payment risks, etc. Therefore, you need to have a specific business plan and thoroughly understand the potential risks to have preventive measures.

Learn More

To learn more about import and export, you can refer to other sources of information such as: the website of the General Department of Vietnam Customs, import and export service companies, import and export training courses.