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Português do Brasil More than 55,000 Brazilian companies are already importing, and this number grows year after year. This shows that international trade is not just an opportunity but a solid path to increasing profits and bringing new products to the national market.
Importing is a powerful strategy to access technologies that don't exist here yet, more competitive supplies, and even finished products for resale. But be warned: despite the advantages, the process requires planning and good partners to avoid headaches.
If you are thinking about starting or want to improve your operations, this guide will show you the main stages of importing, from choosing a supplier to the final sale.
Why can importing for resale be so profitable?
When you import, you can bring exclusive or hard-to-find products into Brazil, ensuring a competitive advantage. In addition, many items from abroad have a significantly lower acquisition cost, which allows for higher profit margins.
Another benefit is the outsourcing of production. Creating your own manufacturing line in Brazil can be expensive and bureaucratic. Outsourcing abroad, especially in countries with robust industrial infrastructure like China, ensures a skilled workforce, competitive prices, and large-scale production capacity.
How to find reliable suppliers abroad
Choosing the right supplier is crucial for successful importing. Here are a few ways to get started:
• Trade fairs and missions: Direct contact with manufacturers in the country of interest.
• Trading Companies and specialized consultancies: Access to pre-verified suppliers.
• Online platforms (like Alibaba) : Offer thousands of options, but require extra reputation verification.
Tip: Request samples or conduct a pre-shipment inspection, especially for your first few deals.
White Label vs. Private Label: Strengthening your brand
You can import products with your company's brand in two ways:
• White Label: A standard product from the manufacturer that can be sold by multiple companies. Customization is limited.
• Private Label: An exclusive product, custom-made for your brand, with more customization options.
If the idea is to differentiate yourself in the market, Private Label offers more creative freedom and a unique positioning.
The stages of importing: From order to Brazil
The import process goes through several, often simultaneous, phases:
• Final negotiation: Defining price, deadlines, payment, Incoterm, and receiving the Proforma Invoice.
• RADAR qualification: Registering the company with the Federal Revenue Service to be able to import.
• Pre-shipment: NCM classification, verification of licenses, and administrative procedures.
• Logistics and service contracting: Choosing a carrier, freight forwarder, and customs broker.
• Documentation: Issuing a Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and other mandatory documents.
After this, the cargo follows international transit, goes through customs clearance, and is nationalized.
Import costs: What to consider
Before closing a deal, it's essential to map out all the costs, which go beyond the value of the product. These include:
• International freight and logistics costs.
• International insurance (highly recommended).
• Taxes (II, IPI, PIS/COFINS, ICMS).
• Storage and handling fees.
• Customs broker fees.
• Domestic freight to the final destination.
Planning for these costs prevents surprises and protects your profit margin.
Where to Sell Imported Products?
After importing, the most important part is selling! The main channels are:
Os principais canais são:
• Physical stores (your own or through distributors).
• E-commerce (constant growth in Brazil).
• Wholesale sales to other companies, taking advantage of larger volumes.
According to ABComm, Brazilian e-commerce is expected to grow by 10% in 2025, with an increase in average ticket value and order volume—a perfect scenario for those who want to start online.
Conclusion
Importing and reselling in Brazil can be extremely profitable, but success depends on strategy, reliable partners, and meticulous planning. By carefully following each step, you can transform importing into a strong pillar of your business.
Avoid mistakes when importing!
Having a specialized import consultancy can save you from many future risks. See what Genco Import & Export can do for you:
- Sourcing your product to find the best value for your product.
- Simulating all costs before you embark on this journey.
- Negotiating values with suppliers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers.
- Unifying all documents. Less headache for you!
- Closing the exchange rate for your process.
- Conducting inspections and issuing complete reports for your follow-up.
And much more!
Count on Genco for the best advisory for your imports.
Contact us and learn more about our services!
