Stocked craft exporter selling at trade fairs

Overseas importers, distributors, department and gift shops, and online retailers that want a ready range from one supplier.

You sell a curated range at wholesale prices above your buying cost. Repeat orders from importers and retailers bring steadier income than one-off sales.

• Buying and stock control
• Negotiating with makers and buyers
• Packing and shipping know-how
• Selling face to face at trade events

• Check customs rules, EORI registration, commodity codes and any export documents needed for each destination
• Check duties, VAT and product safety or labelling rules for the countries you sell to, as these can change
• Stock ties up cash, so avoid buying more than your confirmed orders justify
• Check you have insurance for stock, goods in transit and public liability, plus employer's liability if you hire help
• Check business rates, planning use and lease terms if you rent a unit
• Check the exchange rate risk and payment terms on overseas invoices

Startup costs are typically around £5,000 to £20,000, depending on how much stock you buy, the unit or storage space you rent, shipping supplies and trade fair costs. Avoid buying more stock than your confirmed orders justify, as it ties up cash.

Check customs rules, EORI registration, commodity codes and any export documents needed for each destination. Also check duties, VAT, and product safety or labelling rules in the countries you sell to, as these can change, and your insurance for stock and transit.

Monthly revenue is typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on your range, your buyers and how many orders you ship. The estimate assumes at least about 30 hours a week. Check exchange rate risk and payment terms on overseas invoices.