How to Avoid Potentially High Import Costs
Importing goods can sometimes come with unpleasant surprises. For example, the quality of imported products might be disappointing, or the associated costs could suddenly skyrocket. And as if that weren’t enough, your goods may be held up at the border.
Read on to learn how to avoid these costly pitfalls:
1. Set Clear Written Agreements with Your Supplier – Plan for the Worst Case
You've finally found a supplier in China, only to discover that your first shipment ends up straight in the trash: the product quality is far below expectations.
You can prevent this scenario by making written agreements with your supplier beforehand. These should cover:
Product specifications
Required testing
Quality expectations
In case issues arise during or after production, it's far better to refer to written terms than rely on verbal promises.
Pro tip:
Regularly request product samples
Compare what you ordered with what you received
Keep visual evidence (photos) of approved and rejected samples
Even in China, contract law applies. Written contracts are standard practice, even if that’s not always obvious. Don’t hesitate to put everything in writing.
2. Hire a Quality Control Company
To avoid disappointment with product quality, it’s strongly recommended to hire a third-party quality control company.
While you can visit the supplier yourself, hiring professionals is often more efficient and reliable. These inspection companies exist worldwide and can:
Check the production process
Inspect goods before shipment
Ensure that any issues can be corrected during production
Tip:
Let your supplier know in advance:
That inspections will take place
What the inspectors will check
When these checks are scheduled
3. Be Aware of Import Duties
Import duties often cause unexpected extra costs.
If you’re importing goods from outside the European Union, customs will levy import duties on those goods when they are declared.
These fees are not refundable, unlike VAT in some cases.
Within the EU, there is free movement of goods, which means no import duties apply.