A week-by-week guide for African entrepreneurs ready to enter UK/EU markets. Registration, compliance, documentation, and your first container.
Getting your first export order feels daunting, but with the right preparation it's achievable in 90 days. Here's the roadmap based on hundreds of successful African exporters.
Phase 1: Foundation (Days 1-30)
• Register as an exporter with your national customs authority
• Open a foreign currency business account (GBP/EUR/USD)
• Classify your products with correct HS codes (6-digit minimum — the #1 cause of customs delays is getting this wrong)
• Check DCTS eligibility and calculate your duty savings
• Map all inputs: separate local vs foreign materials
• Request supplier origin declarations
• Identify SPS/TBT requirements for your product
Phase 2: Compliance & Buyer Positioning (Days 31-60)
• Apply for Certificate of Origin or set up self-certification
• Obtain phytosanitary/veterinary certificates (if agrifood)
• Complete CBAM baseline assessment (if applicable)
• Prepare buyer documentation pack: company profile, COO template, product specs
• Select Incoterms (FOB for sea freight, FCA for air)
• Get freight quotes from 3+ forwarders
• Run a mock documentation test — prepare a full set and audit it internally
Phase 3: First Shipment (Days 61-90)
• Secure your first confirmed order with agreed terms
• Prepare commercial invoice with DCTS origin declaration
• Complete packing list matching invoice exactly
• Book freight, arrange insurance, file export customs declaration
• Ship, collect BL/AWB, present documents for payment
• Archive ALL records for 3-5 years
• Conduct post-shipment review and plan your next 90 days
The 90-Day Planner tool walks you through each task with detailed guidance and status tracking.