China is fast emerging as the major exporter of competitively priced telecom products. Many businesses are therefore taking a look at importing cell phones from the Chinese. If you're new to importing from China, it may appear to be a daunting task. This fear can be best tackled by beginning with smaller orders. The most important variable in the entire process of importing is the supplier. Provided you manage to identify a reliable one, you'll slowly master the steps needed to successfully import cell phones from China.
Instructions
1. Locate suppliers. Make use of various directories available online to find suppliers of cell phones in China. Study what the suppliers state about their way of sourcing products. Another way of finding suppliers is to attend electronic trade shows which showcase Chinese cell phone manufacturers.
2. Contact multiple suppliers and select one. Get in touch with the suppliers by email. Explain the nature of your business. Ask for details of the products they supply. Study the models available with each supplier. Compare and contrast quality and prices. Most importantly, reject suppliers whose cell phone models don't have a valid FCC number on them. Such products will be rejected by the customs authorities at the time of import into the US. Choose one supplier to import from.
3. Study the regulations governing import from China. Collect relevant information from the local customs authorities or by visiting the online database of the US International Trade Commission. You can also ask the supplier for information regarding these.
4. Place an order. Discuss with the supplier about the payment terms. Place an order with the supplier. Ask for a license letter from the brand that gives you permission to resell the product. Most Chinese suppliers go with "FOB Hong Kong"--that is, the supplier pays for the transport to Hong Kong port and, from there onwards, it's the importer's responsibility. Work out the payment schedule--most businesses ask for 30 percent to be paid while placing the order and the remaining 70 percent at the time of shipping. Most suppliers prefer payment by wire transfer.
5. Work out the logistics. Decide if you're going to import by air or ocean shipping. Accordingly, find a few shipping companies, ask for the estimated time and cost and decide which one you're going to use.
6. Complete customs formalities. Study the US customs publication titled "A Guide for Commercial Importers." Submit the Form FCC 740. Also, provide the letter of license from the brand you're importing granting you permission to resell the product after import.
