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How do I import a product from another country and safely pay a manufacturer?
I have sent designs to a manufacturer and come to a reasonable price. I need to have samples shipped into the US so I can test them and approve them for production. I have been given a remittance account number by the manufacturer and have also found the national bank of pakistan website which would be able to transfer the money for me. But then how does it get shipped into the US? Do I have them ship using my fedex account number? I dont feel safe giving that out, can I set it up to only ship things on the account once I have authorized it? Probably a question I should ask Fedex but it was on my mind.

Asked by c_MFG
Posted: Friday, September 14, 2007  |  Found in Business Operations


More answers by Laurel Delaney
Answer by Laurel Delaney
That's a tough question with an easy answer.  Start here for background information on how to import and what is involved.

If your transactions are under U.S. $5,000 -- try PayPal for remitting funds to your supplier.   If transactions are greater than U.S. $5,000, I suggest consulting with an experienced international banker on the most effective way to pay your manufacturer.  Also take a look at Entrepeneur's "Snag Your Cash" column. 

Another helpful source on handling imports are freight forwarders, including UPS
.

Hope you find this information helpful.   Good luck!


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