BUYUSA.GOV -- U.S. Commercial Service

San Francisco

Starting Your Own Import/Export Business?

Are you starting your own import/export business?  The US Commercial Service works primarily with established firms who are export-ready. However, a great resource if you are starting your own import/export business is the Center for International Trade Development (CITD) , which has offices located throughout the Bay Area of Northern California.  They can be contacted at (650) 738-7098.

Also, the US Department of Commerce has a useful trade portal which provides extensive information about the various steps of the exporting process.  Here, the Export Basics section will guide you through all the important steps of becoming an exporter, such as developing your export plan, identifying your market, preparing for your market, selling to your market, and export financing.