Compilation of the 3 most popular English import-export conversations

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English for import-export is a challenging topic. However, if you are studying or working in this field, it is essential to accumulate vocabulary and communication phrases. In the article below, PREP shares common English import-export conversations to help you communicate and work effectively. Let's take a look!

The 3 most popular English import-export conversations

I. Import-export vocabulary in English

English vocabulary for the import-export topic

Let's take a look at a comprehensive list of vocabulary related to the import-export topic to confidently engage in English import-export conversations!

English vocabulary for the import-export topic	Meaning	Example
Export /ɪkˈspɔːrt/ (n)	to send goods to another country for sale	The country's main export is agricultural products.
Import /ɪmˈpɔːrt/ (v)	to buy or bring in products from another country	The company imports electronic goods from China.
Trade /treɪd/ (n)	the activity of buying and selling, or exchanging, goods and/or services between people or countries	International trade plays a vital role in the economy.
Customs /ˈkʌstəmz/ (n)	the government department that deals with taxes on goods coming into and leaving a country	Goods passing through customs must be declared.
Tariff /ˈtærɪf/ (n)	a charge or list of charges either for services or on goods entering a country	The government imposed a new tariff on imported cars.
Port /pɔːrt/ (n)	a town by the sea or by a river that has a harbor, or the harbor itself	The port handles a large volume of imports and exports.
Freight /freɪt/ (n)	goods, but not passengers, that are carried from one place to another, by ship, aircraft, train, or truck, or the system of transporting these goods	The freight charges for shipping goods overseas can be expensive.
Cargo /ˈkɑːrɡoʊ/ (n)	the goods carried by a ship, aircraft, or other large vehicle	The cargo ship is scheduled to arrive at the port tomorrow.
Exporter /ɪkˈspɔːrtər/ (n)	a person, country, or business that sells goods to another country	ABC company is one of the leading exporters of textiles.
Importer /ɪmˈpɔːrtər/ (n)	a person, country, or company that buys products from another country in order to sell them	They work as importers, bringing in goods from various countries.
Trade agreement /treɪd əˈɡriːmənt/ (n)	a formal agreement between two or more countries about improving trade with each other, for example by removing import taxes	The two countries signed a new trade agreement to promote commerce.
Balance of trade /ˈbæləns əv treɪd/ (n)	the difference between the money that a country receives from exports and the money it spends on imports	The country has a positive balance of trade with its neighboring nations.
Quota /ˈkwəʊtə/ (n)	a fixed, limited amount or number that is officially allowed	The government imposed import quotas to protect domestic industries.
Invoice /ˈɪnvɔɪs/ (n)	a list of things provided or work done together with their cost, for payment at a later time	Please send us the invoice for the recent shipment.
Free trade /friː treɪd/ (n)	international buying and selling of goods, without limits on the amount of goods that one country can sell to another, and without special taxes on the goods bought from a foreign country	Some economists advocate for free trade policies to stimulate economic growth.

II. Communication phrases for the import-export topic

Let’s explore a list of common communication phrases for the import-export topic compiled by PREP to enhance your communication skills in this area!

What are the import/export regulations for laptops in Thailand?
Can you provide the HS code for the goods you're exporting?
Are there any restrictions or tariffs on importing rice into India?
Could you please send me the proforma invoice for the shipment?
What is the lead time for delivery of the goods?
Do you offer any discounts for bulk orders?
Could you confirm the shipping terms for this order?
Is the packaging of the goods suitable for international shipping?
Can you provide the certificate of origin for the goods?
Are there any specific labeling requirements for the products?
Do you have any preferred shipping carriers or methods?
Can you arrange for customs clearance at the port of destination?
Are there any special documents required for customs clearance?
What is the payment method and terms for this transaction?
Can you provide insurance coverage for the shipment?

III. English import-export conversations

Let’s discover the 3 most common English import-export conversations below!

1. Conversation 1: Exchanging information about goods for trade

A: Hi, I'm reaching out because we're interested in importing some electronics from your company.
B: Hi there! That's great to hear. Can you provide more details about the products you're interested in?
A: Sure, we're specifically looking for smartphones and tablets with the latest features.
B: Got it. Do you have any preferences regarding brands or specific models?
A: We're open to different options, but we're mainly interested in well-known brands with a good reputation.
B: Okay, I'll prepare a list of available products and send it over to you for review.
A: Perfect, thank you. We'll take a look and get back to you with our final decision.

2. Conversation 2: Discussing trade options

A: Hello, we've reviewed the list of products you provided, and we're interested in moving forward with the transaction.
B: That's great news! Did you have a particular quantity in mind for each product?
A: Yes, we'd like to start with a small order to test the market, and if everything goes well, we'll increase the quantity in the future.
B: Understood. We can arrange either a one-time purchase or discuss setting up a regular shipment schedule. Which option works best for you?
A: We're leaning towards setting up a regular shipment schedule to ensure consistent supply.
B: Sounds good. Let's discuss the details further and come up with a mutually beneficial agreement later.

3. Conversation 3: Negotiating transaction costs

A: Hi, we've finalized the terms of the transaction, and now we'd like to discuss the costs involved.
B: Of course. Could you please specify which costs you're referring to?
A: We're interested in knowing the price per unit for the products, as well as any additional fees such as shipping and customs duties.
B: Understood. I'll provide you with a breakdown of the costs including the unit price, shipping charges, and any applicable taxes or duties.
A: Thank you. We also need to consider any potential import/export tariffs or insurance costs.
B: Absolutely. I'll make sure to include all relevant expenses in the quotation for your review.

IV. Learning English import-export conversations through videos

To practice and improve your communication skills in import-export, apart from collecting vocabulary and phrases, you can also refer to illustrative videos of English import-export conversations. PREP has compiled a selection of such videos for you to explore!

PREP hopes that after reading this article, you have gained a wealth of vocabulary, phrases, and quality English import-export conversations. Keep following PREP for more valuable English knowledge updates!

Chloe

Product Content Admin

Hi I'm Chloe, and I am currently serving as an Product Content Administrator at Prep Education. With over five years of experience in independent online IELTS study and exam preparation, I am confident in my ability to support learners in achieving their highest possible scores.