This is not a test of whether you are already an export expert

- it's a test of whether your business is ready to export.

Each "Yes" means that you either already have the right information or you know exactly how to get it in a reliable, professional way.

Each "No" highlights a gap that could cost you time, money or failed shipments.

Just answer honestly. No judgement. You owe it to your future business success.

Let's start!

Market demand - not every overseas market is right for your brand so be sure to undertake thorough research to establish which are the best, quickest and easiest markets for your brand to get established so that you don't waste time and money.

Route-to-Market - think about how you are actually going to import, distribute and sell your product overseas - there are different choices depending on how much control and responsibility you want, the costs involved and how you want to sell to your end customer. Using an importer, agent, distributor or direct-to-consumer are all options to consider.

Product legality - save yourself time and money in the future by getting clear on what the compliance frameworks are that you need to satisfy in each overseas market that you want to enter. From ingredients to packaging, it helps to understand sooner rather than later what you might need to adjust compared to your domestic market.

Export pricing - pricing for export markets can be tricky to put together compared to your home market with extra costs such as shipping, insurance and duty to think about on top of production costs as well as a local margin. Make sure that you carefully think about everything that needs to be included.

Import taxes - Don't forget to check what the import duty and alcohol taxes are for your product in specific markets - they can vary considerably and can make all the difference in making a success of an export market.

Getting paid - from open account to letters of credit and options in between, it's important to choose the right method of payment for each market to ensure that you get paid for your export orders - you are not a charity!

Shelf life and transport - with shipment times possible of up to several weeks across different climates, it's important to think about your product's shelf life and storage requirements when considering whether land, air or sea is the best way of transporting your export orders to arrive in the best possible condition.

Shipping responsibility - International trade is regulated by INCOTERMS which divide costs, responsibilities and risk between a seller and buyer. Depending on the INCOTERM that you choose, these can vary considerably. Be sure to be clear on what INCOTERMS are and which is the most appropriate for your export sale.

Export-ready marketing - what works in your home market will not necessarily translate successfully into overseas markets. Be clear on what steps you will need to make in your marketing to ensure that your brand transfers seamlessly into a new market.

Business capacity - is your business in a good position to handle the work - and rewards! - involved in supporting export growth over the next 12 months?