Companies that want to do business in other countries hire an international trade agent to represent them. Such agents can help with every aspect of the transaction, from finding a supplier to confirming shipment. They may be required to carry government credentials or certifications depending on where they work. Clients of various sizes and needs can benefit from their services, which include a variety of options.
In many cases, companies are not required to work through a trade agent, but they may find it beneficial. This type of agent has representatives and offices in a variety of foreign countries and is well-versed in local laws, such as trade restrictions and tariffs. Working with an international trade agent can help a company avoid common trading pitfalls like incorrectly filling out declarations or paying a disproportionately high tariff on a shipment of goods.
Agents can bring together groups of businesses with products to sell and connect them with buyers from outside the country. Buyers can request samples and pricing information contacting them. This information is provided the agent, along with delivery estimates and other data that may be useful to the buyer in making a decision. If the buyer decides to buy, the agent can arrange for shipping and delivery to the buyer’s warehouse or a nearport or airport.
Buyers can also go to an international trade agent and ask for assistance in finding sellers who aren’t necessarily affiliated with the agent. Agents in this case scour their respective countries for potential sources and report back to the buyers they represent. This can be advantageous for buyers who are unable to meet with sellers in person, inspect their facilities, and negotiate deals. They may be able to access more information and make the process of closing the deal easier with assistance.
Attorneys are occasionally hired as international trade agents or consultants companies that provide these services. Working with an attorney can be beneficial because there may be legal considerations to be made, and some trade declarations require legal forms and witnesses. If the agent is unable to provide legal services, he or she can usually refer clients to local attorneys who can assist with this aspect of the transaction if necessary. To cover legal needs, shipping concerns, and other issues like veterinary or agricultural inspections, trade agents typically form relationships with a variety of businesses in their home country.