The UK is unusual: its tax authority, HMRC, publishes the names and addresses of companies that imported goods, by commodity code, free on uktradeinfo. That gives you an official starting list for your product. It does not show how much each company bought or from whom, so the next step is checking which of them sell or use what you make, and who decides there.
Where UK importer lists come from
| Source | What it gives you | Where it falls short |
|---|---|---|
| HMRC trader data (uktradeinfo) | Names and addresses of importers by commodity code, free | No values, suppliers or contacts; includes forwarders and one-off importers |
| Trade shows in the UK | Buyers in your category, exhibitor lists | Most exhibitors are sellers; costly for a first test |
| Your country's trade office in London | Introductions, distributor contacts, market briefs | Depth varies |
| Directories and marketplaces | Companies by sector | A listing is not a buyer |
| Web buyer research | Companies that sell or use your product today, and who decides | You have to describe the buyer well; Outfound does this work |
Using the HMRC list well
- Find your product's commodity code (the first six digits match the HS code used worldwide).
- Download the importers for that code and the last few months.
- Remove freight forwarders, customs agents and companies clearly outside your sector.
- Open each remaining company's website: does it sell or use your product, and at what scale?
Outfound can take a list like this, or start from a description of your buyer, and check every company the same way, then find the decision-maker and write the first email.
What UK buyers ask first
- Compliance: the right conformity marking and paperwork for your product, and who is the UK importer of record.
- Landed cost: your price including freight and UK duty.
- Proof: references, certifications and a clear website.
The rules for a first email
UK rules allow relevant business-to-business emails to corporate addresses: say who you are, why you are writing to that company, and how to opt out. Sole traders and some partnerships count as individuals and need consent. Keep it short and specific; the ideal email length explains why.
For the methods in general, see how to find buyers for export.
Last updated: · By: Tolga Tatar