During the exporting process it really helps to visit your target market(s) to assess opportunities and to meet potential business partners and customers.
The U.S. Commercial Service has experts here and overseas that can help you plan your visit and make sure it is productive. You should also do some advance work to become familiar with the business culture and environment. This includes reading the relevant Country Commercial Guide(s), and reviewing the State Department’s International Traveler’s Checklist.
International Travel articles in this section cover the following topics:
- Travel During Covid-19 – When travelling during the current pandemic, you should take some special precautions to protect your health.
- Business Culture – Cultural factors affect how business is conducted around the world, and can help or hinder your global sales efforts. A little homework before visiting a target market can help you avoid potential problems.
- Relocating Staff to the US – International Businesses must sometimes relocate staff from overseas to the US. Long-term relocations may involve moving an entire family, and the process is not always straightforward, involving legal, cultural and logistical challenges. This article addresses some of these.
- Tips and Suggestions – At some point, most U.S. exporters need to visit the overseas market they are selling into. Some thoughtful preparation can help insure that your trip is both safe and productive.
- Tradeshows – Each year, over 5000 trade shows take place all over the planet offering tremendous business opportunities. The question is ….How do you find the right show and then plan for success?
- Visiting the Market – Before you get on an airplane and start spending serious money, do a thorough job of market intelligence gathering, and contact the U.S. Commercial Service for their expert guidance.
ATA Carnet – “A passport for your goods”
ATA Carnets (pronounced kar-nay) are customs documents that lets you temporarily export and import goods tax-free and duty-free for up to a year. They can save a significant amount of money for tradeshow exhibitors, salespeople, artists, athletes, TV crews, technicians, event participants and business travellers. Carnets are often hand-carried by travellers accompaning commercial goods in their baggage.