Insights for
Global Importers
Practical guides on landed cost calculations, duty rates, exchange rates, and strategies for protecting your margins in international trade.
Importing Basics
70 articles
What Happens When Your Goods Arrive at Port: Customs Clearance Explained
Your container has arrived at port. What happens next? Here's what the customs clearance process looks like, step by step, and how to avoid delays.
What Is FOB Pricing and Why It Matters When Sourcing Products
FOB is the most common pricing term in international trade. Understanding what it includes — and what it doesn't — prevents costly surprises on your first shipment.
Understanding Bill of Lading: The Most Important Shipping Document
The bill of lading is the key document in international shipping. Here's what it contains, why it matters, and what to check before your shipment sails.
How to Pay Overseas Suppliers Safely: Wire Transfer, PayPal, and Trade Assurance Compared
Choosing the wrong payment method can leave you unprotected if something goes wrong. Here's how each option works, what it costs, and when to use it.
Import Business Startup Costs: How Much Money Do You Actually Need?
From your first sample to your first sale, here's a realistic breakdown of what it costs to start an import business — with budgets for bootstrapped and funded approaches.
How to Calculate Import Profitability: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn the exact formula for calculating whether an imported product will be profitable, from purchase price to final margin after all costs.
How to Choose a Freight Forwarder: 7 Questions to Ask Before You Commit
Your freight forwarder can make or break your import experience. Here are the seven questions that separate great forwarders from risky ones.
Importing to the UK for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know
New to importing? This comprehensive beginner's guide covers the entire process from finding suppliers to receiving goods at your UK warehouse.
Alibaba vs Global Sources vs 1688: Which Sourcing Platform Should You Use?
Not all sourcing platforms are equal. Alibaba, Global Sources, and 1688 each serve different buyer needs. Here's how to pick the right one for your business.
Understanding Incoterms: FOB, CIF, EXW and What They Mean for Your Costs
Incoterms determine who pays for shipping, insurance, and customs. Understanding them is essential for accurate cost calculations and supplier negotiations.
How to Calculate Chargeable Weight for Air Freight
Air freight carriers charge based on whichever is higher: actual weight or volumetric weight. Here's how to calculate chargeable weight and reduce your shipping costs.
How to Read and Compare Freight Quotes Like a Pro
Freight quotes are confusing by design — dozens of line items, acronyms, and surcharges. Here's how to decode them and compare quotes accurately.
Ready to Simplify Your Imports?
Stop guessing your landed costs. Try LandedCost.co free and see exactly what every unit costs to import.