Leather Export Agent (No Stock Needed)

Overseas manufacturers of bags, shoes, belts, upholstery and other leather goods, or the tannery, if you work for commission.

A commission from the tannery or a mark-up on each order. Orders are usually irregular and fairly large, so income can be uneven at first.

• Negotiating and selling to businesses
• Clear written communication with overseas buyers
• Organising paperwork and shipments
• Understanding leather types and finishes

• Export permits for some animal products, such as kangaroo or crocodile, so check with the federal environment department before you quote
• Biosecurity and export documentation rules for animal-derived goods, so check with the federal agriculture department
• Payment risk with new overseas buyers, so consider letters of credit or part payment upfront
• Check whether your tannery agreement gives you exclusivity or can be dropped at any time
• Public liability and product or trade insurance, and GST treatment of exports, so check with your accountant

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many samples you send and how you set up. Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on orders and whether you earn a margin or commission.

Check export permits for some animal products, such as kangaroo or crocodile, with the federal environment department before you quote. Also check biosecurity and export documentation rules with the federal agriculture department, and GST treatment of exports with your accountant.

Useful skills include negotiating with businesses, clear written communication with overseas buyers, organising shipments and understanding leather types and finishes. Estimates suggest at least about 10 hours a week. Check payment risk with new overseas buyers.