How To Find An Overseas Buying Agent

You may have wisely decided that while you would like to take advantage of the lower production costs associated with having your new product manufactured in a country like China, you just do not have enough information to do it on your own. In that case, you will want to hire an expert in this type of transaction.

The first problem you will have in finding the right person is figuring out what they call themselves. There are at least three different titles that seem to be in use (and probably more) for people who assist companies with outsourcing manufacturing.

The manufacturing agent or overseas buying agent is generally the right titled person for your needs. This professional can take you from a set of drawings or a prototype through the selection of a manufacturer and a negotiated production agreement. Do not, however, confuse this title with the title, manufacturers agent. Completely different! This professional represents manufacturers products to wholesalers, the reverse of what you are looking for.

Interestingly, however, some import agents, people who help you get your product from one country to another, can also identify potential suppliers and may work as an intermediary between you and the company as you work through final product development.

Finally, some professionals with these skills refer to themselves as international trade specialists.

Like many other careers, people can be highly specialised or more general in the way they offer services. Your goal is to find the person who offers the right services for your needs.

Here are some possible ways to find that professional.

Follow the Inventors

A smart trade professional will look for work by following inventors and making themselves known. Inventors tend to read Inventors Digest. You can try reading the classifieds or go to the Resources section, find an inventors organisation and post a query for a recommendation on chat boards.

Alternatively, join the United Inventors Association website for access to their list of certified advisors.

Trade Related Organisations

Trade professionals also belong to and interact with trade related organisations. Try looking through the information at the Federation of International Trade Associations website. As mentioned earlier, import agents sometimes extend their services into areas that you need. Their trade organisation if you are based in the USA is the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America, Inc.

Country-specific

Try economic development resources within your own country.

- International economic development office: If your state or locale has an office that promotes international development, they will probably have a list of manufacturing agents by country.

- Country Consulate: Find the nearest consulate for the country you are interested in. Part of the consulate mission is to assist with trade relations. They will also know how to find a manufacturing agent for you.

Naturally, you will pay a fee for agent services. The fee could be a flat fee per service provided or some sort of percentage arrangement. You should certainly be sure that fees are manageable and reasonable, keeping in mind the number of missteps and problems the agent will help you to avoid. A good agent can save you a lot of money and time.