Hi can someone please tell me the basics of setting up an Import/export business from start to finish i'm in the UK Like licences I'll need and what I should expect from my bank ect.

Thanks

Replying to [ranks]: it is easy.

Replying to [ranks]:Two people can guide you, your clearing agent and your Banker

Replying to [ranks]:
As aunot said, do you need an agency to help you to import from China?

I am the agency of some foreign importers, to take care of their purchases and interests in China, help to investiate the suppliers, to coordinate, to inspect, and transport the goods.

If you are interested in my service, If you are sincere, and feel that I am reliable, feel free to contact me..

Replying to [hellojasmine]:I could actually spend a whole day answering this question it is that vast. But I don?t have the time. Here are a few ideas from an up and coming entrepreneur ( I like to think I am anyway):

1) Start thinking of what you want your business to be, or what you want to sell. Maybe by doing a brainstorm of business/product possibilities. And browsing through the categories in Alibaba might help.

- When you decide this you will have to do product and market research. I.e. is this product in DEMAND. And can I actually make a PROFIT.

- Are you an Ebay member if so, once you have found a product that you want to sell look on Ebay and see what sort of prices it is going for here, this is usually a very good indication of what a product would be worth.

2) Where are you going to sell and who to!

3) What sort of money you would need to finance this business.

As for licenses I?m to sure about this area. But I do know you will have to pay VAT and on most items custom tax. For example if you import electrical goods you would be charged something in the region of 13% customs tax and 17.5% VAT.

Don?t jump into anything to quickly and dip your finger in the water to see what its like. In other words Buy small quantities first to test the market, if this goes well then buy larger quantities.

Replying to [S McB]: You can get some suggestions from the participants but the actual research need to be done by uou yourself.

You want to start your own business and after that you will be benefiting it.

Lot of your success will depend on your hardwork.