1. Lack of Market Awareness & Research 

Before you start you should know where your product is showing potential , By  understanding & knowing your target market is very essential. 

New exporters often skip Detailed research on demand, competition, and pricing overseas.

What to do instead:

• You can Book A free prior consultation with us on Connecting with us .

• You can visit our website for more clarity about the services which we offer

• Validate demand for your product in at least two foreign markets.

• Study local regulations, preferences, and cultural nuances.

Real-life case study:
A Pune-based spice exporter launched shipments to Canada without realizing the local preference for Basic labeling. His containers were stuck at customs, leading to huge losses and a damaged reputation. A quick impactful Product nexus report can defiantly guide and sail you out from such horrible positions study could have prevented it.

2. Not Understanding Export Documentation

Export is mainly a game of correct & powerful  documentation isn’t just paperwork—it’s the legal backbone of your business. misguiding , Incomplete or incorrect documents can result in customs delays and penalties and some times loss of shipment as well.

Key documents every exporter must master:

• Invoice & Packing List

• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill

• Certificate of Origin

• Shipping Instructions

• FSSAI or Phytosanitary certificates (if applicable)

  For more details you can connect with us for personalized Report. 

3. Ignoring Legal Compliance and Licenses

Without an Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT and GST registration, your business can’t legally operate internationally.
Many startups delay this process, thinking it’s optional.

Tip:
Apply for the IEC and register your firm under Udyam or MSME to avail government benefits.

For more details you can connect with us.

4. Poor Product Selection

Exporters commonly do this kind of mistake very often choose products based on local availability or personal interest instead of global demand & Market analysis. This mistake leads to waste of time , money and funds as well.

How to choose the right product:

• Explore export promotion council lists (like APEDA, FIEO).

• Focus on products with low perishability and high demand (e.g., cotton fabrics, engineering goods, Ayurvedic products).

• Analyze HS Codes to understand export trends. 

5. Weak Logistics and Supply Chain Planning

Even if your product is top-notch & highly demanding , logistics issues can ruin your shipment. Missing shipping deadlines, relying on a single freight forwarder, or not pre-checking container availability are common errors.

Pro tip:
Build relations with multiple logistics partners and use cold storage or packhouses (especially for agri exports) that meet NCCD & APEDA guidelines.

6. Underestimating the Role of Currency and Payments

A fluctuating foreign exchange rate can make or break your profit margins. Also, new exporters often fall for unsecured payment terms.

What to do:

• Understand payment methods: Advance, Letter of Credit (LC), Documents Against Payment (DAP), Open account

• Always consult with your bank on hedging currency risk.

7. Branding and Packaging ISSUE

International buyers expect world-class packaging and clear labeling with personalized branding . Inadequate branding reduces your product’s shelf appeal and marketability.

Include:

• Multi language tags.

• QR codes with traceability

• Eco-friendly packaging (which is a growing trend in Europe and Gulf countries)

• multi color labeling 

8. Overlooking Trade Fairs and Networking

Staying in your office and relying only on online B2B portals like Alibaba or Indiamart won’t cut it. You need real-world exposure.

Attend:

• Trade expos like IndusFood, Gulf Food, or Aahar, gulf food , Dubai 2020.

• Buyer-seller meets organized by Export Promotion Councils (EPCs)

9. Not Hiring an Export Consultant

Many startups avoid hiring professionals to save costs. But in the long run, an experienced export consultant can save you lakhs in costly mistakes.

A consultant can help you with:

• Product nexus report by Exim federation

• Right guidance & Approch.

• Connecting with genuine buyers

• Availing government schemes like RoDTEP, MEIS, and TMA

10. Ignoring After-Sales Service and Buyer Feedback

Your job doesn’t end after the shipment leaves. Not following up with buyers or handling claims poorly affects your future business.

Build long-term trust by:

• Seeking feedback

• Offering replacements for genuine issues

• Staying updated with buyer preferences

Conclusion: Export Success Begins with Awareness

Starting an export-import business  holds immense potential, but avoiding these 10 mistakes can fast-track your journey. With the right preparation, expert guidance, and strategic planning, you can build a globally competitive export venture.
For more details we recommend you to get consult with Exim Federation by Dattasa Environment. 

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