Guide / Notes · 2026-09-24
Seven ways to find overseas buyers
Discovery methods solve different parts of the job. Compare what each provides, the cost categories and the verification you still need to do.
Compare the work, not the promises
| Method | What you get | Cost category | What remains | Useful when |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B2B platforms / list providers | Enquiries or company and contact records | Membership or list fees; response time | Verify role, fit, contact validity and demand | You can maintain listings and handle enquiries |
| Shipment data | Available historical trade records | Subscriptions and analysis time | Past imports do not prove current demand or a usable contact | Relevant records exist for your market |
| Trade exhibitions | Introductions and conversations | Travel, exhibiting and staff time | Qualify fit, record permission and follow up | In-person discussion helps your category |
| General AI | Research assistance and draft suggestions | Tool access and fact-checking time | Verify each factual claim and source | You have reliable source material |
| Sending tools | Sending and scheduling workflows | Software and mailbox management | Qualify recipients; enforce permission and suppression | Your list is already qualified |
| Search / maps | Public company pages and local listings | Manual search and verification time | Check role, products, freshness and contact route | You can research a focused market yourself |
| SAR · Signal Intelligence | Evidence-led review and editable opening; 25 free companies; Starter CNY 399 / 150 companies; Growth CNY 899 / 500 companies | Company allowances and review time | Verify unknowns and supply capabilities; do not assume dated events or intent | You want a reasoned shortlist before optional outreach |
Start with a manageable set
An independent exporter can begin with focused public search or an existing list. Teams may combine exhibitions, enquiries and trade records. Someone still needs to verify fit and decide what to say.
Combine discovery with judgment
A company name starts the research. Keep the source, the reason for fit and the unknowns together before choosing a contact channel.
Prepare an introduction: Writing a first email
When SAR is not a fit
Do not expect bulk database downloads, a team CRM, guaranteed replies or continuous event monitoring. Unsupported research markets need your own list. Current discovery still has auto parts catalog boundaries.
Review before outreach
The Opportunity Feed separates why a company fits from whether there is a dated event. Sources and uncertainty stay visible. Prepare and copy a draft without a mailbox; optional sending uses your own identity and approval.
Check available markets: Research guide
Start with 25 free companies. Compare plans