Exporter of canadian-made products

Overseas distributors, retailers and online sellers looking for Canadian products, and sometimes buyers in a diaspora community.

You earn a margin between what you pay the producer and what you charge the overseas buyer, or a commission if you act as an agent.

• Finding and approaching overseas buyers
• Clear written communication across time zones
• Handling export paperwork and shipping details
• Negotiating prices and terms

• Some goods need export permits or have restrictions, so check with Global Affairs Canada and the CBSA
• The destination country sets its own import rules, taxes, labelling and food or product standards, so check them first
• Check how you will be paid, for example payment up front or a letter of credit, to avoid non-payment risk
• Check export credit insurance and your general business insurance options
• Currency changes and shipping costs can quickly change your margin

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the products you handle, your sample and shipping costs and how you find buyers. Currency changes and shipping costs can quickly change your margin.

Some goods need export permits or have restrictions, so check with Global Affairs Canada and the CBSA. The destination country sets its own import rules, taxes, labelling and product or food standards, so check those first.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your products, buyers and terms. Check how you will be paid, such as payment up front or a letter of credit, to avoid non-payment risk. Expect at least 10 hours a week.