Is It Possible To Start an Importing Business Without Quitting the Day Job?

With the internet giving us instant access to anyone on the other side of the globe via email, chat, and Skype, starting a global trading business has never been quicker and easier.

Any new business takes a commitment of time and start-up money. But an importer’s hours can certainly be spent after a day’s wage has been earned with an existing job. You don’t have to quit your day job to lay the groundwork for a small importing business. Many global suppliers are located on the other side of the world, and their work day is beginning after your commute home from your job. The day-to-day timing element couldn’t be a better fit.

Whether you are at a crossroads in your career, have concerns about the stability of your job with your employer, or are finishing school, owning your own business in global trade is very realistic with a minimal investment. This is a relationships business. People connecting with people, understanding what the market needs, and knowing where to source products overseas are keys to success as an importer.

What You Don’t Need to Start an Importing Business

• You don’t need to quit your day job. You are communicating at any hour of the day and moving goods with the help of key partners, such as customs brokers and warehouse personnel. All this can be done online or via phone without your personal presence.
• You don’t need a lot of start-up capital. Successful importing companies have long enjoyed sizeable profits operating as small businesses with small staff.
• You don’t need office space. A desktop and computer connection is where you’ll spend most of your time. This could be in your home, a small executive suite, or a coffee house providing wireless internet connectivity.
• You don’t need to sign a long-term lease for a storefront. You can market your goods and reach your customers with a modest website built on Yahoo for a minimum cost.
• You don’t need to commit to large warehouse space, or even give up space in the guest bedroom to store your inventory. You can have a third party logistics vendor handle all your warehousing and fulfillment from another state. You never need to see your product if you wish!

What You Do Need to Start an Importing Business

• A drive to own and grow your own small business.
• An internet connection and computer for communication and marketing your company.
• A desire to play a key role in helping your global partners succeed in their business.
• A curiosity to know what’s new in the marketplace, and excitement in discovering new trends and products before the rest of the world.
• A relationship with a customer base that is looking for new, innovative products.
• Enough capital to meet the minimums of the initial purchase order your supplier requires. This may be a smaller investment than you’d expect.

You can get a solid foundation built for your importing business without quitting your day job and finding large investors. You’ll be in complete control.