Import set-up guide for online sellers

Online sellers, boutique retailers and start-up product brands that import goods but have no trade experience.

Fixed-price packages such as a first-import checklist or a one-hour consultation, plus paid follow-up reviews of documents and costings.

• Understanding of import duties, tariffs and shipping terms
• Plain-language explaining
• Online marketing and client communication
• Attention to detail

• Product rules vary (labelling in English and French, safety standards, restricted goods), so check official sources for each client's product
• Avoid presenting yourself as a customs broker unless you hold the required licence
• Professional liability insurance is worth checking, as advice errors can lead to fines or seized goods
• Quebec has its own French-language requirements for labelling and marketing, so check them if you serve Quebec clients
• Exchange rates, tariffs and trade policy change, so keep your guidance up to date and add a disclaimer

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $300 to $2,000, depending on your website, marketing and insurance choices. Professional liability insurance is worth checking, as advice errors can lead to fines or seized goods for clients.

Check official sources for each client's product, as labelling in English and French, safety standards and restricted goods vary. Do not present yourself as a customs broker without the required licence, and check Quebec's French-language requirements if you serve clients there.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $300 to $3,000, depending on how many online sellers you guide. The estimate assumes at least about 5 hours a week. Tariffs and trade policy change, so keep your guidance current.