Frequently Asked Questions

Exporting no matter what industry you are in can sometimes seem overwhelming. Where do you start? What's the best way to ship your product overseas? Will there be customs issues or taxes and duties? We've put together some frequently asked questions about exporting overseas that we think will help you. As we continue to get feedback from you we will continue to add questions in an effort to continue to support the growth of the US exports.

1. What is a standard booth size at an international trade show?
   Most of the world still works with meters as opposed to feet so you'll start to see sizes that don't seem like they make sense. For example a 3 meter x 3 meter booth = 9 sq. meters. This may seem small, but 9 sq. meters is about 98 sq. feet which is about the size of a 10 ft x 10 ft booth. Take a look at the World Wide Metrics Converter and the Square Foot/Meter Conversion
   
   
2. What would be the best way to bring over my booth set up for an international show?
   The easiest way for an international exhibitor to set up their booth overseas is by using a “stand build” offered by the show. This makes for a turnkey, cost effective solution because the cost of shipping a booth overseas is very expensive and the size of your booth here will not match exactly with the size of a booth there. Every international show we produce offer “stand build packages” which provide you with walls, carpet, electricity, lighting and furniture.
   
   
3. What is the easiest way to import my products for an international show?
   Depending on your product, the rules and regulations will vary. If you are shipping to a show WITH OUT the intent to sell on-site, we recommend dealing directly with your Freight Forwarder and having them issue you a Temporary Import Bond. You can also get a carnet which allows you to enter a country with out paying any duties or taxes. Visit ATA Carnetfor more information or contact your freight forwarder for a Temporary Import Bond. If you are planning to SELL on-site you will be required to pay all duties/taxes on merchandise sold which vary per country.
   
   
4. What is VAT? How much is it? How do I reclaim it?
   VAT is Value Added Tax. Depending on the country the VAT (tax) will vary. For example, in the UK the VAT is 17.5%, in France it is 19.6%. For international exhibitors and visitors, VAT is refundable. In order to receive a refund of your VAT you must keep all ORIGINAL invoices/receipts. There are companies that can process everything for you at a small fee. We recommend using Quipsound.
   
   
5. Can I pay for my booth in US Dollars or do I need to pay in the foreign currency?
   Unfortunately for all overseas events payment is required in the overseas currency. The easiest way to make payments is by wire transfer at your bank. To find out about exchange rates visit the Travel Tips Page.
   
   
6. Will I need a passport or Visa to go to certain countries? If so, which countries require these types of travel documents?
   Depending on your country of origin and the country you are visiting you may need a VISA and other documents to travel. Take a look at these sites for all information regarding your trip. Visit the Travel Tips Pagefor more information on required international documents.
   
   
7. What can I expect the culture to be like? Are there guidelines on how to conduct business overseas?
   Being aware of international business practices is probably one of the most important aspects of participating in an international show. Knowing how to interact, what to wear and what to expect can give you a huge advantage to building your business overseas. Take a look at these tips and facts about how to communication internationally: International Communication.
   
   
8. Will I need an interpreter in order to do the show? How do I find someone?
   In many countries English is a second language and you won't need to have a local interpreter. However, there are some countries where we do recommend having an interpreter because of language and cultural barriers. Some cultures just prefer to deal with local people. Each show that recommends interpreters will be able to connect you with a certified interpreter at a reasonable cost.
   
   
9. When I'm planning my trip, when will I need to be there? How far in advance can I ship my product and enter the show site to set up?
   Just like any local show, set up is typically 2 days prior to the opening day of the event so it would make sense to coordinate your travel so you arrive a day or two early this way you have time to see the show site and ensure all of your products have arrived. For shipping products a standard rule would be to have your product arrive no earlier than a week before the show. The official freight forwarder will make you aware of all timelines when it comes to shipping.
   
   
10. After the show, how do I export my products? What's the process – shipping, taxes, etc.?
    Each industry operates differently when it comes to shipping into a country after a show. Ask us to connect you with one of our clients and they will be able to give you some insights on how they ship and what to expect.
    
    

Don't see the answer to your question? Contact us and we'll find an answer for you!

Travel & Export Tips

Learn about: international business tips, required travel documents (visa, passports, etc), metric conversions, currency exchanges, VAT recovery, ATA Carnet, and more to make your international experience stress free.

Education

The US Department of Commerce, State Groups and Industry Associations are great tools to help you gain insights into new markets and export strategies.

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