[i](Please note that I have this exact same post in the General Message forum. I am NOT trying to "spam" anyone. I am just wanting this in each forum where I may receive some solid feedback.)[/i]
OK, I've seen nearly all the scams out there but I have a potential client from Saudi Arabia who seems legitimate.
I am looking for input in regard to the most secure way to gain payment that isn't going to come back on me.
I have been advised that credit cards and cashier's checks can all end up with the product supplier finding themselves out of luck and their money.
Haven't had any issues with Europe but I won't even consider Africa in regard to potential clients.
Any feedback from those with greater experience in dealing with overseas clients would be appreciated.
I am also curious to know how to deal with shipping. Can I just UPS boxes of product or am I going to have to deal with export taxes, etc.
Thanks in advance to those of you who will offer constructive assistance whether positive or negative.
Sign Lights, Inc.
P. 321-863-2791
E. Sales@SignLightsInc.com
Visit us at www.SignLightsInc.com
Well just lost another bid to the guy that wholesales channel letters to the public
so im pissin rivits
Just
cut my regular price by 20% and he still came in at over 2000 lower than me
Well I will sit on my ass before I give jobs away
Also has not paid me for the neon I did two weeks ago
first it was COD- then the end of the week-now I faxed the invoice three times and he says he did not get it.two weeks later
Well I feel better now thanks for askin
The good thing about exports is that you can ask for full prepayment from new clients.
Wire transfer is the most secure way to get paid, just ask your bank for the correct routing info (ABA, Swift, etc) and make sure you get the correct info to your client.
Companies in the Middle East sometimes bristle at being asked for prepayment, as if it's an insult to question their trust, but just say that it's a company policy that is in place for ALL countries and you are not able to change it. After a period of time or multiple transactions, you can then make whatever special arrangements you like and offer them some sort of terms, but be very careful. Make sure you build into your pricing the cost of the added paperwork, such as B14s and Commercial Invoices.
There is a lot of money being spent over there, but people didn't get wealthy giving it away. We do some sales into the UAE and India, but never Saudi Arabia - so no specific intel.
As for shipping, you can in fact ship by UPS or whoever you are most comfortable with. There should be no export taxes, but be clear that any import duties on their end - as well as customs clearance fees (even if no duties) - are the responsibility of the buyer. There are a lot of companies that specialize in air freight into certain regions and you client may well have some firms they already deal with. You'll get better rates than the common couriers.
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