randybates58 asked:
i want to buy electric bikes in china, and sell them in america
January 4, 2004
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randybates58 asked:
i want to buy electric bikes in china, and sell them in america
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The federal trade commission.
Comment by Miss V — January 6, 2004 @ 3:36 am
You need a customs broker. They know relevant regulations for each commodity. Chances are the only things you’ll need to confirm regulation-wise are (1) whether you need to pay duties to Uncle Sam when you bring electric bikes in from China; and (2) whether electric bicycles require UL (underwriter’s laboratories) approval.
For info on duties check the US International Trade Commission’s Tariff Information Center at the following link:
See chapter 87 “Vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling stock, and parts and accessories thereof”
Frankly if you don’t know the regulations governing the importation of electric bicycles from China into the U.S., then that means you probably have no experience in this industry, and there are more important questions you should be asking, such as:
Who is your target customer and how will you get their attention?
Who are your main competitors?
Why will your target customers buy your bikes and not your competitors’?
What advantage do you have selling electronic bicycles that your competitors don’t have?
How will you find suppliers?
Do you have the capital to buy bikes, ship them to the U.S., inventory them, and invest in marketing to sell them?
Keep in mind that suppliers in China only sell large quantities. Unless you are prepared to import full container loads of electric bicycles there is no point buying direct from China. You should first find a domestic wholesaler or importer to buy from, that way you can get your business started with a low capital investment. Your COGs (cost of goods) will be higher, but you won’t need to tie up cash in inventory. Focus on developing your customer base and growing sales. As long as you at least break even you are doing great. Then, once you have built up a customer base and have sufficient demand, you can think about finding a supplier in China. When you’re at that point give me a call and I can help you – 212-847-7175. Good luck!
Comment by Hank S — January 6, 2004 @ 7:19 pm