Home-based export trader for one product niche

Overseas shops, distributors, online sellers and trade buyers who want British products but don't have UK contacts.

You buy at a producer's trade price and sell to the buyer at a higher price. The margin has to cover shipping, paperwork and any bank or payment fees.

• Negotiating with suppliers and buyers
• Good organisation and attention to detail
• Clear written communication, often across time zones

• Customs rules: check GOV.UK on export declarations, EORI numbers and the import rules of the destination country
• Some goods need export licences or health certificates, such as food, animal products, plants and certain technology. Check before you quote
• VAT treatment of exports and the proof of export you need to keep. Check with HMRC or an accountant
• Payment risk: consider payment upfront, letters of credit or trade credit insurance for first orders
• Sanctions and restricted destinations, so check who you are selling to
• Cargo insurance for goods in transit, and check whether you need public liability insurance

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £2,500, depending on your niche, samples, website and insurance. These are estimates, so check whether you need cargo insurance for goods in transit and public liability cover.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on your product niche, the orders you win and your pricing. Payment risk matters on first orders, so consider upfront payment, letters of credit or trade credit insurance.

Check GOV.UK on export declarations, EORI numbers and the destination country's import rules. Also check whether your goods need export licences or health certificates, the VAT treatment and proof of export, and sanctions or restricted destinations.