| Importer | |
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Specialization
Most importers specialize in one product area and know their products well. Usually they will have representation in the source country or countries in order to ensure that the products being shipped are of the correct specification. Other importers, however, purchase all types of goods and act more as a clearing station for imports –
often cheap goods from low cost countries. Some of these general importers will even purchase container loads speculatively without any detailed knowledge of what the container is carrying.
Multi-Skill
Importing can be a very complicated business, involving many skills and contacts with a wide range of external functions such as
shipping companies, state authorities, banks and insurance companies. Importers must be aware of currencies, shipping routes and rates and have a good knowledge of the import/export laws of many countries and trading blocs. They must also have good negotiation skills, be multi-lingual, have good math, logistics and planning abilities. Importers will often employ specialist companies to liaise with
shipping companies, carry out customs clearance, and deal with cargo forwarding and insurance claims.
Although importing is complicated and specialized, some larger retailers take on imports themselves.
Role in the Supply Chain
Importers can supply any part of the supply chain: they may supply parts to producers or even supply them with finished goods to supplement their range. They will also supply wholesalers and large retailers.
Consumer | Customer | Importer | Packaging Supplier | Producer | Retailer | Shipper | Wholesaler
History | Marketing | The Supply Chain | Types of Retail Outlet
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