Export Consultant for Small Manufacturers

Small manufacturers, food and drink makers, farms, and online brands that have not exported before or have only tried it once.

Fixed-fee export readiness reviews and market research reports, hourly consulting, or a monthly retainer while a client launches in a new country.

• Understanding of shipping and customs paperwork
• Market research
• Clear writing and explaining
• Patience with detail

• Export controls and sanctions rules (check with the Bureau of Industry and Security) apply to some products and countries
• Customs brokers need a federal license, so check whether you are giving advice only or filing entries for clients
• Professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance, since bad advice can be expensive for a client
• Check whether your city or county requires a business license, and HOA or lease rules for working from home
• Income can be uneven at the start, so don't rely on a single client

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your home office setup and insurance. Professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance is worth pricing up, since bad advice can be expensive for a client.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $800 to $5,000, depending on how many clients you have and what you charge. Income can be uneven at the start, so avoid relying on a single client.

Check export controls and sanctions rules with the Bureau of Industry and Security, as they apply to some products and countries. Customs brokers need a federal license, so check whether you only advise or also file entries. Also check city or county business license and HOA or lease rules.