So You Want to Export: Where do You Begin?
To begin exporting goods from Canada, you’ll need to add an import/export number to your regular business number. Please visit our Legal Requirements—Starting section for information on how to open a business in BC and how to add an import/export number.
You might also be required to obtain permits or licences, or follow specific government regulations, to export certain products. See Canada Border Services Agency’s Step by Step Guide for Exporting to determine what regulations you need to be aware of.
Are You Ready to Export?
An important question to ask is “Are we ready to export?” It’s not simply enough to want to sell your products internationally; you should also be prepared for this new business venture.
While export businesses differ, they all share certain characteristics, including a committed management team, production capacity, and financial capacity.
Export Planning
Just like your domestic business, your export business will require a comprehensive plan to help you identify the steps to selling internationally. A business plan will help you understand the legal requirements for getting your product into a new market, identify the costs associated with exporting, and develop an overall strategy for this new endeavour.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) publishes a Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting and a Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting to the United States. Along with export plan templates, these guides allow you to:
- Assess your company’s export readiness
- Build an export plan
- Research and select your target market
- Create an export marketing plan
- Determine the best methods of delivering your product or service to your target market
- Develop a sound financial plan
- Understand the key legal aspects of international trade
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