There’s an abundant amount of free online government resources available for those who are searching for trade-related data and tools. Whether a business is thinking about exporting or a seasoned exporter, the resources provided below can help provide insights about and identify opportunities in the global marketplace.
- TradeStats Express. Among its many benefits, this interactive tool is useful for obtaining U.S. export data about specific product categories. National data can be easily retrieved by either Harmonized Schedule (HS) code (two or four-digits) or North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code (two, three, or four-digits). State-level data can be retrieved by NAICS code. TradeStats Express was created by the International Trade Administration (ITA), a department of the U.S. Department of Commerce, using U.S. Census data.
- USA Trade Online. This is a robust database from the U.S. Census that enables users to search by more specific parameters, such as five and six-digit NAICS codes, and generate reports in greater detail than TradeStats Express. Registration is required.
- Global Market Finder. Another offering from the U.S. Census, this tool enables searches by 10-digit Schedule B codes to handily identify export partner countries by export dollar value, quantity sold and average unit price by country, method of shipping, and other information.
- Market Diversification Tool. This ITA tool generates a list of promising new export markets and is especially helpful for those who are currently exporting. Users provide their business’s zip code, six-digit HS numbers of the product(s) being exported, where they’re currently exporting these products, and their target market(s), then an algorithm turns out a ranked list of export market results.
- Consolidated Screening List. An ITA resource for exporters in the customer due diligence process, this searchable list shows businesses and individuals impacted by export restrictions.
- Non-Binding Fee Calculator. This tool from EXIM is designed to provide U.S. exporters with a rough estimate of policy costs for short-term single buyer Export Credit Insurance Actual fees will be confirmed upon approval of a completed application.
Many other trade-related government resources are available at the federal, state, and local level.
Businesses who are thinking about exporting and in the initial stages of their research are encouraged to contact a local U.S. Export Assistance Center (USEAC) which is staffed with representatives from the U.S. Commercial Service, U.S. Small Business Administration, and EXIM who work collaboratively to provide assistance. For those who are export ready and would like more information about EXIM, please click here to schedule a free consultation with an EXIM trade finance specialist.
