Import / Export Trade Compliance & Offshore Own Brand Development Project

Project Executive Summary

The Client was a leading global distributor of plumbing and building materials.


Following their Own Brand Sourcing workshop, the Client requested a high-level project scoping document covering the logistics and trade compliance processes required to support their growth of Own Brand products sourced from overseas suppliers. It was agreed that the scoping document would be supplied within an agreed period and would be a comprehensive overview of the Client’s current logistics and trade compliance processes. 

ICS Global Services: Shipping Plumbing Products

Scope Analysis

ICS Global Services: Project Scope

During the high-level project scope analysis, it was evident that there was no business owner for the current import / export activities, the business had disjointed manual procedures across all departments, with no coherent strategy and no integrated processes to manage importing or exporting. The business was missing the necessary resources and expertise to cover their current international business activities. Therefore, the Client was exposed to risks and financial penalties due to non-compliance with import and export regulations. The Client’s current business situation was subsequently not able to support the planned growth of offshore Own Brand sourcing.

During the high-level project scope analysis, it was evident that there was no business owner for the current import / export activities, the business had disjointed manual procedures across all departments, with no coherent strategy and no integrated processes to manage importing or exporting. The business was missing the necessary resources and expertise to cover their current international business activities. Therefore, the Client was exposed to risks and financial penalties due to non-compliance with import and export regulations. The Client’s current business situation was subsequently not able to support the planned growth of offshore Own Brand sourcing.


During the high-level project scope analysis, it was evident that there was no business owner for the current import / export activities, the business had disjointed manual procedures across all departments, with no coherent strategy and no integrated processes to manage importing or exporting. The business was missing the necessary resources and expertise to cover their current international business activities. Therefore, the Client was exposed to risks and financial penalties due to non-compliance with import and export regulations. The Client’s current business situation was subsequently not able to support the planned growth of offshore Own Brand sourcing.


Completed Projects

Solution

Phase One - Interim Executive

To support the growth of Own Brand products sourced from overseas suppliers, Ian Simmonds engaged as an interim executive on a 6-month contract to manage the Logistics and Trade Compliance Project. The interim role enabled the Client to access the necessary experience and talent without adding to permanent headcount. Ian Simmonds quickly implemented international trade solutions and benefits for the Client, whilst working alongside the existing teams.


Phase Two - Import Team

Managed the creation of an International Logistics and Trade Compliance Department to provide support and management of import / export activities, whilst contributing to inventory availability and on-time deliveries to customers. The team were engaged to manage worldwide inbound and outbound inventories (by Road, Rail, Sea, Air), whilst following documented legally compliant processes.


Phase Three – In-house training

Ian Simmonds provided training and guidance for all employees involved in transactions with overseas suppliers and customers. Providing the Sourcing team with the necessary support to develop Own Brand Label initiatives from factories in Asia and Europe. 

Deliverables

  • Implemented an Import and Export Business Model highlighting the margin and cost benefits.
  • Mapped and documented end-to-end processes within an Import Manual and a Supplier Manual.
  • Develop ‘state of the art’ international supply chain services for the business to support import and export requirements.
  • Provided cost efficiencies by leveraging import and export volumes with supply chain partners.
  • Minimised exposure to HM Revenue and Customs audits and penalties.
  • Provided cost-effective shipping, warehousing, freight forwarding and brokerage services for the business.
  • Provided Customer Service Improvements.
  • Reduce lead-times and reduced inventory.
  • Improve container fill rates to reduce shipping costs and increase margins.
  • Ensured trade compliance and implemented management of Duty / VAT exposure.

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