Direct exporting means you export directly to a customer interested in buying your product. You are responsible for handling the logistics of shipment and for collecting payment.

The advantages of this method are:

• Your potential profits are greater because you have eliminated intermediaries.
• You have a greater degree of control over all aspects of the transaction.
• You know who your customers are.
• Your customers know who you are. They feel more secure in doing business directly with you.
• Your business trips are much more efficient and effective because you meet directly with the customer responsible for selling your product.
• You know whom to contact if something isn’t working.
• The feedback you receive from your customers on your product and its performance in the marketplace gets to you faster and more directly.
• You get slightly better protection for your trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
• You present yourself as fully committed and engaged in the export process.
• You develop a better understanding of the marketplace.
• As your business develops in the foreign market, you have greater flexibility to improve or redirect your marketing efforts.

Your choice on whether to go direct will depend on your goals, your available resources, and the type of business you run. Direct exporting is the only way to maximize control, profits, and market presence. I urge you to move in that direction as soon as you feel able.

To dig deeper, explore:  Exporting: The Definitive Guide to Selling Abroad Profitably