Exporting process and support

Once you’ve decided to start exporting, you need to get prepared. For the best chance of success overseas, you should have a solid foundation to build off. This means: 

• a clear business and export plan
• clear intentions and tangible goals
• support from your employees
• good business practices
• knowing what help is available. 

Build your networks

Building strong networks can help you clarify questions and learn from the mistakes of others. Reach out to businesses who have done what you’ve done, even your competitors. Talking to your business network is an essential step to make your export journey easier.

There are many organisations that can support your networking through events and resources. For example:

• New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) regularly runs exporting events
• ExportNZ offers advice and networking opportunities
• Kea Connect is a resource that can help you learn how to network effectively.

Create an export plan

An export plan is like your business plan but focused on entering a new export market.

It is a living document that should evolve as your business grows. Keep it updated as your business changes. Download the template below to get started.

Once you’ve evaluated and chosen your market, get familiar with what’s involved in the market entry phase.

Setting up overseas

It’s important to do the following when you’re setting up your business overseas:

• Register your business – Consider things like payroll, tax, GST and superannuation.
• Set up a bank account – This can be more complicated than you think. For example, you might need to translate documents or be at the bank in person.
• Think about getting your money back to New Zealand – You might have to pay a fee to get money out or pay withholding taxes or dividends on royalties.
• Appoint overseas representatives and consult advisors - You might need a director, lawyer or accountant in the country you're exporting to.

Distributing and shipping

Distribution means getting your goods or services to customers. It includes:

• shipping and tracking – by yourself, or using a customs broker or freight forwarder.
• choosing your sales channels – this could be online, in retail outlets or at trade shows.
• deciding whether you use an agent or a distributor.
• recalling your goods – this is usually only needed if there’s a problem with the goods, like a food poisoning risk or a defect that can be dangerous.

If you’re new to exporting or an export market, it’s a good idea to work with customs brokers or freight forwarders.

The best method of distribution depends on things like: 

• your goods or services – how you sell luxury goods or services will be different to how you sell everyday ones.
• your customers – where and how your customers shop.
• market size – how many customers you’re likely to have and if they’re a big proportion of the population.
• logistics – how much of your goods you store, where you store them and what shipping options you have.

Other distribution options include:

• contract manufacturing
• franchising
• joint ventures
• licensing and royalties
• strategic alliances.

Once you have more exporting experience, you could set up an overseas office. This gives you more control, but it can also be expensive and you’ll need to meet legal obligations.