Exporting your products can lead to many new opportunities for your business, but if you’re new to the world of export it can feel overwhelming. We’ve compiled some of the information and resources you’ll need to check before you start exporting your products.
Prohibited Goods
The Australian Government does prohibit the export of certain goods from Australia, however you can still import some prohibited goods as long as you meet certain conditions and requirements and have written permission. Australian Border Force has further information about prohibited goods.
Australian Requirements
When you export you need to comply with requirements set out by Australian Border Force (ABF) and your exported goods will be subject to customs control. One important requirement is an Export Declaration, which is a statement an exporter gives to the ABF. Export Declarations can be submitted electronically or over the counter and if you don’t export your goods within 30 days of the intended export date you will have to withdraw your Export Declaration within 7 days. You might find it beneficial to use the services of a custom broker or agent when you start exporting.
Documentation
When you start exporting you must have all your documentation in order. The documents you need will vary depending on what goods you are exporting and where you are exporting to, but may include written permission if exporting prohibited goods, insurance certificates, certificate of origin, export permits, bills of lading and bills of exchange. You can find the import documents required for each market on the Austrade website. Austrade provides free and detailed information for Australian companies about exporting and doing business in international markets. You’ll find their website extremely helpful.
Export Market Development Grants
It’s worth checking if you are eligible for Austrade’s Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) program. The program helps small to medium Australian businesses grow internationally through export.
Fact Sheets and Research
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has fact sheets that provide an economic snapshot of countries and regions. They also supply information about free trade agreements including a Free Trade Agreement Portal with extra information for first time exporters.
Once you start exporting don’t forget to keep up to date on information as time goes on, for both the Australian requirements and the country/market you are exporting to.
And if you need pallets to use for exporting your products, just get in touch with our team!