FAQs

What products can you import & export?

Our international network of agents, factories and suppliers will enable you to source virtually any product for your business. Our team is committed to helping you locate the perfect manufacturers and suppliers to ensure you meet your client’s demands.

How do you ensure the quality of the products you import & export?

Businesses commonly worry about the quality of their end product, yet fear not! Our Quality Control constantly strictly monitors every stage to guarantee superb results. Furthermore, our partners worldwide are dedicated to producing quality products that last. We carry out regular audits on manufacturers and factories we work with to ensure the highest quality standards. We also send proto-types to 3rd party labs to be tested for quality, durability, sustainability and foremost human health & safety. We’ll work closely with you to determine your product specifications and quality standards, ensuring that they are rejected before leaving the factory floor if they fail to meet your criteria.

Why should I work with an importer & exporter over my current wholesaler?

Partnering with an importer & exporter is a great way to find discounts and save money on the products you purchase. By ordering full container loads (FCL), we can keep transportation fees low, resulting in increased savings for your business. This opportunity also offers more flexibility than buying from wholesalers – if need be, you can also ask for specific products designed according to your exact specifications. For Example in the interior design space, the quality-standards expectations are extremely high ranging from the specifications, ordering, quality inspections, coordination, delivery and financials. In this stage, everything is examined, and nothing is left to chance. Every furniture finishes, every fabric details or colour specification is recorded and registered. Every item price is checked and shown clearly to the client will make sure that the highest level of quality is delivered in the most reasonable amount of time without the stress and time waste for the client. The same Applies Across All our other categories!

Does my company need to be more significant to import?

A definite NO! At GlobalSourci, we understand that businesses come in all shapes and sizes. That’s why our services are specifically crafted to meet the needs of any company, from six-figure online shops to all businesses or large retail giants. We work with clients on a one-to-one basis, helping them unlock their true potential so they can compete with the toughest competition. Our goal is to develop profitable partnerships and long-lasting ones where both parties benefit significantly over-time.

How long does it take to import my products?

The amount of time needed for production depends on the size of your order, with estimates ranging anywhere between 20-50 days. To ensure all goods arrive safely and promptly, 30-40 additional days after manufacturing is a good guide. This can, however, vary depending on product location, shipping and destination port. For branded products from our supply distributors' warehouses anywhere from 5-40 days after completion of order fulfilment. However, this varies depending on product location, shipping and destination port. A more accurate timeframe can be provided subject to each orders requirements.

I’d love to save money by purchasing in bulk orders, but I have nowhere to store that much inventory.

GlobalSourci can provide a range of different logistical solutions in conjunction with it's affiliated business and partners.

How do I verify if my goods were actually shipped?

You be receiving a separate legal document Bill of Lading detailing functions in shipping and logistics. Contract between the shipper GlobalSourci & ieLogistics International, and the carrier ranging from shipping-line or Airline and consignee, you as the client receiving the shipment stating what goods are being shipped, where the shipment is coming from and where it's headed.

It is important to understand Bill of Lading is only issued after the vessel's departure from the Port of Loading where all details have been provided, such as the shipper, consignee, notify party, commodity, weight, cargo description, etc. It also serves as a receipt, an acknowledgement that the goods have been loaded (not where the cargo is) and contains or evidences the terms of the contract of carriage.

Main documents include Bill of Lading, Purchase Order, Export Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Analysis certificates. (Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Analysis certificates).

Can anyone issue a Bill of Lading document?

Simple Answer NO. Bill of Lading can only be issued by the carrier as this legal document acts as evidence to the insurance company of the actual insured cargo if the worst is to occur. The functions of a Bill of Lading are as follows:

Receipt – It acts as a document of the receipt of the goods by the issuing body. Contract – It outlines the shipping method that will be used for the cargo and acts as evidence of the contract of carriage with the carrier. Title of goods – For a named consignee to take the delivery of the goods on the discharge port or on the final destination (depending on what has been agreed on), the consignee must surrender the original copy of a B/L.

Is Cargo and Transit insurance included?

YES, Cargo and Transit insurance is included as part of the customer's shipment.

Do I Need a customs broker?

Yes, it might be best you find a customs clearance agent in your country where they can manage this process for you. All you need to do is provide your customs agent with the same documents that we provide you they handle all of the documentation including the customs compliance issues for the customs clearance of your cargo.

Alternatively, our affiliated business and partners can handle this entire process for you delivering a smooth and timely clearance for your goods with a minimum of fuss.

Who pays the customs tariffs, duties and taxes?

Normally it is the responsibility of the importer of record to pay the duty. The seller or shipper normally cannot pay the duty in advance.

The customs authority in each country is responsible for the collection of taxes for goods imported into the country. Many times this is done while examining or inspecting your cargo to establish an accurate description of the freight. Often times during this inspection, customs is looking for trade mark issues or fair market trade based on the appraisement value. Most often to confirm the country of origin, as there are Trade Agreement for duty-free tariffs from privileged countries.

You can pay any tariffs, duties and taxes relating to the country where you want your cargo shipped, your customs clearance agent will be able to handle all this for you.

Can cargo be shipped without the remaining balance paid in full?

Unfortunately No Final payment or any remaining balance outstanding must be paid upon all inspections completed, and final inspection reports verified and approved before transporting your cargo to the shipping departure port.

What are your payment terms?

The initial deposit is paid when you confirm your order this is when production commences then the remaining balance becomes payable after production upon all completed inspections this includes pre-shipment inspections with all Quality-Standards Approved.

What happens if I cannot pay the remaining balance owing for my ordered Goods?

We will take all steps to try to help you by storing your cargo at a nearby storage facility until you be in a position to pay the remaining balance outstanding anywhere from 7-60 days. keep in mind that you be responsible for any additional storage costs until you settle the remaining outstanding balance owing.

If you still cannot settle the remaining outstanding balance after 60 days unfortunately there is not much else we can do you may forfeit your initial deposit paid unless we streamline your cargo or offload portions of your cargo with another buyer whereas all logistics fees & charges and cost of goods shall be recalculated based on your revised order minimising any losses.

What is a pre-shipment inspection?

A pre-shipment inspection is a step taken to inspect newly manufactured products before they are shipped for export/import.

The purposes of a pre-shipment inspection are to:

-Check the quantity and quality of the products
-Check products for any defects
-Ensure products meet the safety requirements of the destination market
-Issue Report for import and billing

What Happens if I later discover Goods/Products were damaged?

First rest assured that your goods are protected, and fully insured. However, If you discover any Goods/Products damaged let us know immediately take snapshots and contact us Don't worry you be receiving full credits and refunds.

What Happens if some Goods/Products are defective?

The chances of this occurring are minimal however if you discover items defective Goods/Products let us know immediately take snapshots you be receiving full credits and refunds. Alternatively, replacements can be manufactured and shipped with full Quality-Control-Standards complete.

What Happens if I receive my order late?

We make every effort to get your shipment delivered on time however if the worst is to occur resulting in unfortunate delays beyond our control you be notified and we will keep you updated at all times until you receive your cargo shipment.

Do you offer full free consultancy and support if I experience any problems with my cargo shipment?

Yes, we offer full FREE support 24/7 reason being we always want your business Tomorrow.

Do you offer Guarantees and Warranties?

YES, All products, merchandise/Goods are backed up with full manufacturer warranties & Guarantees. Consumer Product and Product Materials Testing

How can my products meet regulatory requirements for hazardous chemicals?

The simplest way we engage with recognised 3rd party testing companies/ labs who are CNAS ISO accredited organization certified to perform quality control inspections and ISTA testing as well as testing against RoHS, REACH, CPSIA. Some manufacturers self-test and/or rely on local testing labs for certifying their products. However, there is no guarantee these labs, or their equipment, are reliable. Nor is there any guarantee the results are accurate. In either case, the importer may be held responsible for the product. In view of the risk, we use 3rd party testing labs worldwide accredited and certified who conducts a broad range of consumer goods for all regulatory testing requirements.

How can California Prop 65 affect my business?

Prop 65 is the 1986 voter-approved Safe Drinking Water & Toxic Enforcement Act that includes a list of Chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and/or reproductive toxicity. If a product contains a listed chemical, then the product must contain a “clear and reasonable” warning label informing consumers of the presence of the chemical and stating the chemical is known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Although companies with fewer than 10 employees are exempt, if they sell a violative product to a retailer with more than 10 employees, the retailer could receive a notice of violation. In these circumstances, retailers usually rely on clauses within their contracts with importers that require the importer take responsibility for the violation.

A plaintiff may seek injunctive relief requiring a company caught selling a violative product to suspend sales, conduct a recall, or reformulate the product. Plaintiffs can also obtain penalties of up to USD$2,500 per violation per day. A more general California statute allows most successful plaintiffs to recover their attorneys’ fees as well.

Many are now choosing to rely on 3rd party testing companies/labs to verify that hazardous substances are not being used in their products.

Is package testing necessary for all products?

Package testing is mandated by regulations for some products such as; food, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, dangerous goods, etc. This may cover both the design qualification, periodic retesting, and control of the packaging processes. For unregulated products, testing may be required by a contract or governing specification. However, for most consumer goods, package testing is often a business decision involving risk management for factors such as:

• cost of packaging
• cost of package testing
• value of package contents
• value of good will in your market
• product liability exposure
• other potential costs of inadequate packaging

We would be happy to assess your specific product and packaging requirements to help you determine whether package testing can improve your quality deliverables.

How can I get updates on regulatory issues?

We take great pride in our technical brain trust. We constantly receive updates so we are prepared to proactively inform our customers on issues that may affect their products. In addition, each month we receive Product Safety and Compliance Updates. This is a comprehensive view into the latest industry and regulatory changes and recall review that helps us make critical decisions evolving our clients products.

What testing is required for my products or materials?

Regulatory laws and guidelines are an increasing challenge to importers throughout the world. How these affect you will vary widely based on your product type, component materials, where the product is being shipped, and the end-users in your market. Since there is risk, it is imperative you stay up to date on all relevant regulatory laws affecting your products. Our Team works with you to determine your exact requirements and propose a custom solution to best meet your needs. We also receive monthly updates on regulatory matters to help keep our team and customers fully informed.

Quality Control Inspections

How do you monitor your inspector's work?

Our Partnered-Teams have dynamic inspector, & auditor training and audit programs. This includes periodic retraining and testing, unannounced visits to factories where quality control inspections, or factory audits, are being conducted, random interviews with manufacturers & suppliers, and random audits of inspector reports as well as periodic efficiency audits. Our affiliated inspector's programs have resulted in developing a staff of inspectors that are among the best in the industry.

We also test the dynamics of a product against durability and reliability measuring a product's performance and ensuring full quality standards.

What happens if you detect quality issues during production or after initial production?

We help the manufacturer resolve any quality issues as part of our production management services that we provide resolving any production issues that may arise.

Our inspectors also ensure that proper procedures are followed for the relevant AQL inspections and report any findings. QC consulting and production management services can help resolve any production issues.

Can I get reports the same day of the inspection?

It may be possible to get an initial quality control inspection report the same day. However, the verified report is not available until the next business day.

We want the final review by a supervisor with excellent language skills. This also allows for a final review for accuracy and internal audit purposes.

Factory & Supplier Audits

Why is a factory audit or supplier evaluation important?

Globally especially in Asia is ripe with middlemen, sub-contracting, materials and component swapping, fraudulent certifications and licensing, and sub-standard facilities, materials, and equipment. The only way to be sure who your supplier or manufacturer is and what their capabilities are is to do an onsite evaluation or audit. Our partnered Teams experienced professional staff that are ready to conduct your factory audit supplier evaluation.

Regardless of our network of Manufacturer's and suppliers' high-quality standards record we never let our guard down we always treat each new order with the unexpected possibilities- Do you REALLY know who you are buying from? Do you REALLY know what their production capabilities are and whether they can produce what you expect? These are some important questions when assessing a potential manufacturer despite their high-quality standards record.

In some instances supplier manufacturers may engage in mixing low quality with high quality, in a way to maximise their profits we eliminate this risk with our audits, frequent testing and inspections we always stay one step ahead mitigating risk ontop of our Game.

What should I know about my supplier manufacturer?

Doing business globally can be a tricky and expensive effort if sufficient due diligence is not done for a manufacturer. How much is required may depend on your requirements, your personal commitment to social compliance, and other business needs. We provide supplier, manufacturer evaluations and factory audit services from simple evaluations to complex technical and social compliance audits. We can work with you to determine your exact requirements and propose a custom solution to best meet your needs.

Pre-Shipment Inspections

A pre-shipment inspection is a step taken by trade operators (buyers, suppliers, agencies) to inspect newly manufactured products before they are shipped for export/import.

The purposes of a pre-shipment inspection are to:

• Check the quantity and quality of the Goods/Products
• Check products for any defects
• Ensure products meet the safety requirements of the destination market
• Issue report for import and billing
• Pre-shipment inspections were officially introduced in 1994 as an agreement to improve international trade standards under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which was later replaced by the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

A number of obligations were included in the “Agreement on Pre-Shipment Inspection,” stating that pre-shipment investigations should be applied according to the following principles:

• Non-discrimination
• Transparency
• Protection of confidential business information
• Avoidance of delays
• Price verification based on the price of identical or similar goods in the country of exportation, in which the exporter has the opportunity to explain the price charged
• Inspection agencies establish appeals procedures, the findings of which are made available to other exporters
• Accredited inspection agencies perform pre-shipment inspections when production is at least 80% complete. This is your final opportunity to take corrective action before your production is shipped, making it an effective tool to safeguard your product against costly import risks.

The pre-shipment inspection typically covers: functionality, performance, durability, overall appearance, and dimensions.

Following a successful pre-shipment inspection, the agency issues an inspection report document which accompanies the consignment to its destination.

7 Important Steps in a Pre-Shipment Inspection Procedure

Step 1. Inspection Visit

Pre-shipment inspections are carried out on-site at the factory or production house. If the inspectors suspect that the products could contain restricted chemicals, they may advise further off-site lab testing of those products. An example would be products suspected of containing toxic chemicals such as lead and toxins derived from azo dyes, which are tightly regulated by Europe’s REACH directives and the Federal Trade Commission in the US.

Step 2. Quantity Verification

The inspectors count the shipping cartons to verify the correct quantity. In addition, this step ensures that the correct number of products and boxes will be sent to the correct destination; therefore, the pre-shipment inspection can be agreed upon between a buyer, a supplier, and a bank to initiate payment for a letter of credit.

The packaging is also checked to verify that the correct packing materials are being used to ensure safe transportation, and that correct packaging labels are applied.

Step 3. Random Selection

Professional pre-shipment inspection services use the internationally recognized statistical sampling procedure ANSI/ASQC Z1.4 (ISO 2859-1).

The acceptable number of defects in a batch before it’s rejected is defined with an Acceptance Quality Limit (AQL). The AQL varies depending on the type of product being evaluated, but the objective is to provide a balanced, unbiased view.

Step 4. Cosmetic and Workmanship Check

The first thing an inspector looks at from the random selection is the overall workmanship of the finished products, to check for any immediately visible defects.

Defects are typically classified as minor, major, or critical based on predetermined acceptable tolerance levels, which are usually agreed upon between the manufacturer and supplier during product development.

Step 5. Conformity Verification

Quality control inspectors check product dimensions, material and construction, weight, color, marking, and labeling. If the pre-shipment inspection is for garments, the inspector checks whether correct sizes have been assigned to the shipment and that the sizes correspond with production dimensions and the labels.

For other products, dimensions may be much more important, so this is when the dimensions of the finished product can be measured and compared with your original specifications.

Step 6. Function and Safety Test

Function Testing for Garments

For garment, apparel and footwear inspections, the inspectors perform physical tests on the products to determine the strength of buttons, zippers, and other accessories with pull tests, fatigue tests, and stretch tests.

Fabric density and composition tests determine the density or thickness of fabrics used in garment production. Special tools are used to measure fabric density. The quality control inspectors can also physically count the number of stitches per inch.

A fabric that’s too thin or not dense enough could mean your manufacturer has used an inferior fabric or textile that won’t stand up to normal wearing and washing.

Furniture Safety Tests

Furniture safety tests and inspections reduce risk and improve quality and quantity control from raw materials to the finished product.

Carried out by experienced inspectors, all of whom specialize by product range, furniture inspection services deliver written reports immediately on completion detailing findings on products:

• Assembly
• Finish/color
• Design
• Durability
• Packaging
• Labeling and marking


Mechanical Safety Tests

Mechanical safety tests are required for products with moving parts such as bicycles and pushchairs that could potentially cause injuries if they are defective.

The inspection involves testing the product’s shape and design to see whether there are any sharp edges or parts that could pinch or entrap fingers, toes, and other appendages.

Mechanical safety testing includes checking the safety of critical components such as screws and hinges used in a completed product.

Electrical Safety Testing

Electrical and electronic products must be tested to ensure they comply with a wide range of safety regulations before they can be certified and labeled. Evaluating a product for electrical safety is often performed under laboratory conditions rather than on-site at the factory. It includes the following tests:

• High voltage test (dielectric withstand test) - Measures the ability of an electrical product to withstand a high voltage applied between a product’s electrical circuit and the ground.
• Leakage current test - Evaluates whether current that flows between an AC source and the ground exceeds a specified limit.
• Insulation resistance test - Calibrates the quality of the electrical insulation used.
• Ground continuity test - Ensures that a clear path is available between all exposed metal surfaces and the power system ground.


Country-Specific Labels & Markings for Electrical Products

What are the country-specific labels and markings for electronic products? The type of electrical safety testing required depends on the type of product as well as the destination market.

• UL Certification Mark - Underwriters' Electrical Bureau for the U.S. federal agency Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). CE Marking - The CE mark is recognized worldwide and indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA).
• VDE e.V. (Germany) - The VDE Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies (Verband der Elektrotechnik, Elektronik und Informationstechnik) is a standard widely recognized in Germany and internationally for electrical engineering, developing recognized technical regulations as national and international standards as well as testing and certifying electrical and electronic devices and systems.
• CSA (Canada) - The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) registered mark shows that a product has been independently tested and certified to meet recognized standards for safety or performance required for Canada.
• BSI (UK) - The British Standards Institution (BSI) is the national standards body of the United Kingdom. BSI produces technical standards on a wide range of products and services, and also supplies certification and standards-related services to businesses.
• CCC Mark (China) - The China Compulsory Certificate mark (CCC) is a compulsory safety mark for many products imported, sold, or used in the Chinese market.

Step 7. Inspection Report

Once the pre-shipment inspection is completed, a report is compiled with a pass/fail result, an overview of key findings, and a detailed account of the inspection results. Some pre-shipment reports include clear images showing all inspection points, so you can see exactly what was discovered.