Full-Time Exporter Shipping Pallets and Containers

Overseas wholesalers, distributors, restaurants chains and importers who place regular, larger orders.

A margin between what you pay producers and what you charge buyers, often with a mix of products in one shipment to spread freight costs.

• Negotiating prices and terms
• Managing stock, deadlines and shipping schedules
• Handling export documents and money risk

• Check licences, permits and labelling rules for your products, including any CFIA or Health Canada requirements for food and health goods
• Check export permit and reporting requirements with Global Affairs Canada and the Canada Border Services Agency
• Large orders tie up cash, so plan working capital and consider credit insurance for buyer non-payment
• Cargo, commercial general liability and warehouse insurance
• Winter weather and port delays can disrupt shipping, so build in extra time
• Check municipal zoning and lease terms for any storage unit

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on stock volume, storage and shipping arrangements. Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $15,000 to $70,000. Large orders tie up cash, so plan your working capital.

Check licences, permits and labelling rules for your products, including any CFIA or Health Canada requirements for food and health goods. Also check export permit and reporting requirements with Global Affairs Canada and the Canada Border Services Agency.

Estimates suggest at least about 35 hours a week, as this is a full-time business. You manage quotes, shipping bookings and export documents, so useful skills include negotiating, managing stock and deadlines, and handling money risk.