Import and export shipping helper for small firms

Online sellers importing stock, small manufacturers exporting to the EU or beyond, and specialist retailers buying from overseas suppliers.

You charge a handling fee or a margin on freight, plus fees for documents and customs coordination.

• Understanding of shipping terms and documents
• Attention to detail with paperwork
• Clear communication with overseas suppliers
• Problem solving when shipments are delayed

• Check HMRC rules on acting for others in customs declarations, including any authorisations or registrations you need
• You and your customers will probably need an EORI number, so check requirements for each trade route
• Check insurance for goods in transit and professional indemnity, and make sure customers know what is covered
• Mistakes on paperwork can mean delays, extra duty or fines, so use a qualified customs partner until you are confident
• Check sanctions, export controls and restricted goods rules before shipping anything unusual
• Watch cash flow, as freight charges and duty often fall due before your customer pays you

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £1,500 to £6,000, depending on your software, insurance, any customs partner arrangements and how you set up your business. Allow some working capital because freight charges often fall due early.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £800 to £4,000, depending on how many small firms you work for and the size of their shipments. Most people start at about 15 hours a week. These are estimates, not promises.

Check HMRC rules on acting for others in customs declarations, including any authorisations you need, and EORI number requirements for each trade route. Also check goods in transit and professional indemnity insurance, and sanctions, export controls and restricted goods rules.