South Carolina World Trade Institute

The South Carolina World Trade Institute is the educational arm of the South Carolina World Trade Center.Its vision is to be recognized as the premiere institute in South Carolina for international trade education in the fields of importing, exporting and international business relations .The mission of the SCWTI is to provide world-class education to South Carolina companies and individuals in these areas and to promote entrepreneurial development and awareness via innovative training programs with the goal of increasing job opportunities and prosperity for the citizens of South Carolina.The courses of the SCWTI are available to anyone interested in attending, whether you are a new entrepreneur or an experienced trader.For more information, please contact our Education Department at info@scwtc.org or call us at
843-852-9880 ext 27.

The SCWTC's 9 Steps of Importing & Exporting

Before you contact the SCWTC, have you…

1 Created your business plan?

A solid foundation is necessary if any venture is to succeed.

2Done your Market Research?

Discover the right resources, right market and the right product for your trade endeavors.

3Developed your Marketing Strategy?

Focusing on the 4 Ps: Product, Price, Placement, Promotion

4Now contact the SCWTC to help you find a Supplier or Buyer!

Networking and Lead Generation is key.

The SCWTC is your resource for international contacts and trade information. Offering the following services:

a. Trade Lead s
b. Contact with Global World Trade Centers
c. Matchmaking through Trade Missions
d. Assistance with Trade Shows
e. Locating a Secondary Source or more customers

5Close the Deal

Finaliz e your deal, draw up a contract, include shipping terms and negotiate.

6Finalize your Payments

Understand the different methods of payment , each carrying different levels of risk for the importer and the exporter

7Work out the Transportation Logistics

Figure out your mode(s) of transportation, shipping documentation and shipping terms (Incoterms 2000), & international laws

8Understand Customs

Research free trade agreements, harmonized tariff codes, SIC codes, international laws and the role of your Customs House Broker.

9Plan your Warehousing and Distribution

Store your product wisely and plan key distribution routes to your customer or the end-user.