Importing from China to Canada – it’s a lot more than a shipper and a customs broker

By David Howse

Canada China Importing and Exporting

Two days ago I returned from China. I was in Guangzhou from October 17 to November 7, 2011. Everyday of that trip was about building friendship in China, learning the language and culture, and making manufacturing agreements.

The best tip I can give anyone for success in doing business in China is to learn the culture and the language.  The most important things you need to know have nothing to do with business. Sitting in a restaurant in Guangdong province is an experience unique to other parts of China. Guangdong Province has over 100,000,000 people; it has its own culture and history (though strongly tied to the rest of China). Knowing the rituals and the language will gain you respect. By demonstrating that you actually care or maybe even love China many doors will open for you.

If you don’t have time for this then you need to hire a guy like me. I’ll bet that almost every China-USA or China-Canada trade problem or bad business negotiation came from either poor communication or cross-cultural mixups. Another thing you need to learn is to stop speaking so quickly, and not only that but reflect on your words before you speak. Trust me, even that will help.

If you have any interest in Custom Designed Shopping Bags watch this video.

China Garment Manufacturer Canada Import Export Calgary Consultant

If you want exclusive Canadian distribution rights to China garment manufacturers, I can make it happen. Call me 403-991-8863. That's me on the right.

I’m currently catching up on some work and adjusting to MST (China is +14 hours!). In a few days this blog, my FaceBook page, and my website Calgary Marketing Companies, will tell much more of the story of China manufacturing, product sourcing, and Canada China Import Export details.

Update: November 16, 2011 – I am currently prepping for a major order to help a client build a new distribution company. This is the proper way to set up a distributorship: (1) do your research (2) build strong relationships with suppliers (3) buy direct (4) get the word out that you have the best product at the lowest price.That’s it! Now, wasn’t that easy? Call me when you want to make things run smoothly.

Thanks,

David Howse
Tel: 403-991-8863

5 thoughts on “Importing from China to Canada – it’s a lot more than a shipper and a customs broker”

  1. Thanks David, I think people like you are going to be in high demand the way things are going. Its very interesting to read about the process as I have family and some friends that may get into the business some day. I understand the process well once goods are here. I cover some of the regular issues and questions at my blog Canada Customs Info if you ever have any questions feel free to ask.

    Cheers
    CI

  2. Interesting. I’ve always wondered how this was done. I hear some people in my line of work complain about this problem. Also shipping issues…like the container gets here and some of the items are damaged. I guess the key is having all the right connections over there…and trial and error…unless they have someone like you.

    • Hi, The best solution (apart from not being there yourself) is to have a trained agent working on your behalf. I have two agents in China who work for me who take care of shipping, QC, negotiations, etc. There may be items they are not technically qualified to inspect; so they would give recomendations on a 3rd party to do QC.

      Cheers,

      David

Leave a comment