Frequently Asked Questions

We provide comprehensive import/export services including:

• Customs clearance and brokerage
• Freight forwarding and logistics management
• Trade documentation preparation
• Compliance consulting
• Supply chain management
• Trade finance facilitation

Our services are designed to streamline your international trade operations and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.

Global Trade Solutions has been operating for over 15 years, establishing ourselves as a trusted partner in international trade. We have successfully handled thousands of import/export transactions across 150+ countries.

We have a global presence with operations in over 150 countries. Our main offices are located in New York, London, Singapore, Dubai, and major trading hubs worldwide. This extensive network allows us to provide seamless service across international borders.

Getting started is easy:

• Contact our team through our website or by phone
• Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific needs
• Receive a customized service proposal
• Complete the onboarding documentation
• Begin using our services for your trade operations

Our team will guide you through each step to ensure a smooth onboarding process.

Yes, we specialize in creating customized solutions tailored to your specific business needs. We understand that every business has unique requirements, and our team works closely with you to develop solutions that address your specific challenges and objectives.

We handle a wide variety of goods including:

• Consumer products and electronics
• Industrial machinery and equipment
• Raw materials and commodities
• Food and agricultural products
• Textiles and apparel
• Automotive parts and vehicles

However, we cannot assist with prohibited items such as illegal substances, weapons, or other restricted goods.

Our fee structure is transparent and competitive:

• Service Fees: Based on the complexity and scope of services required
• Transaction Fees: Percentage-based fees for trade facilitation
• Consulting Fees: Hourly or project-based rates for advisory services
• Subscription Plans: Monthly or annual plans for ongoing services

We provide detailed quotes upfront with no hidden charges.

Initial consultations are typically free of charge. During this consultation, we assess your needs and provide a preliminary overview of how we can help. Detailed consulting services and ongoing advisory work are charged based on our standard fee structure.

We accept various payment methods for your convenience:

• Wire transfers
• Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
• Bank checks
• Online payment platforms
• Letter of credit arrangements

Payment terms are typically 30 days from invoice date, with options for different arrangements based on your business needs.

Shipping times vary depending on several factors:

• Air Freight: 1-7 days for most destinations
• Ocean Freight: 10-45 days depending on route
• Ground Transportation: 1-10 days depending on distance

Customs clearance can add 1-5 days to the total transit time. We provide accurate delivery estimates based on your specific shipment details.

Yes, we offer comprehensive cargo insurance options through our insurance partners. We can help you secure coverage for:

• Loss or damage during transit
• Theft or pilferage
• Natural disasters
• War and strikes

While insurance is optional, we strongly recommend it for all valuable shipments.

Yes, we provide real-time tracking for all shipments. You can monitor your cargo through our online portal, which provides:

• Current location and status
• Estimated delivery dates
• Customs clearance updates
• Delivery confirmation

We also send automated email and SMS notifications at key milestones.

Common documents required include:

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of lading or airway bill
• Certificate of origin
• Import/export licenses (if applicable)
• Insurance certificates
• Specific permits or certificates for regulated goods

Our team helps ensure all documentation is complete and compliant with destination country requirements.

Customs duties and taxes are calculated based on:

• HS Code Classification: Product category determines duty rates
• Customs Value: Usually the transaction value of goods
• Country of Origin: Trade agreements may affect duty rates
• Import Regulations: Specific duties or taxes may apply

We provide accurate duty estimates and help you optimize your duty costs through proper classification and trade agreement utilization.

If your goods are held by customs, we:

• Immediately investigate the reason for the hold
• Communicate with customs authorities on your behalf
• Provide any additional documentation required
• Address compliance issues promptly
• Keep you informed throughout the process

Our experienced customs brokers handle most clearance issues efficiently to minimize delays.

We ensure compliance through:

• Regular updates on regulatory changes
• Comprehensive compliance training for our staff
• Advanced compliance management systems
• Pre-shipment compliance checks
• Partnerships with legal experts worldwide
• Regular audits and quality control processes

Our compliance program is designed to minimize risks and ensure all transactions meet legal requirements.

We monitor and comply with all international sanctions including:

• U.S. OFAC sanctions programs
• EU sanctions regulations
• UN Security Council sanctions
• Country-specific embargoes
• Restricted party lists

Our compliance team conducts screening against all relevant sanctions lists before processing any transaction.

Our AML compliance program includes:

• Customer due diligence and KYC procedures
• Transaction monitoring systems
• Suspicious activity reporting
• Regular AML training for staff
• Independent compliance audits

We work closely with financial institutions and regulatory authorities to maintain the highest standards of AML compliance.