Direct decision rule
Do not import until legal compliance, warranty ownership, repair or replacement workflow, spare-parts access and reverse logistics are workable in the destination market.
Use this stage when
- The product is electrical, connected, battery-powered, claim-sensitive or otherwise regulated.
- Customers or retailers expect local warranty and returns handling.
- Repair data, consumables, firmware or spare parts affect usable product life.
Evidence to collect
- Current local regulatory advice for the exact product and importer model.
- Written warranty scope, exclusions, service levels and cost ownership.
- Spare-parts list, prices, minimums, lead times and repair documentation.
- Returns authorization, diagnostics, replacement and disposal workflow.
Decision checklist
- Name the legal importer and responsible party for each obligation.
- Budget expected failures, replacements, freight and technical labor.
- Confirm access to parts, firmware, manuals and escalation contacts.
- Test the complete customer-to-resolution workflow before scale.
Risks and exceptions
Requirements vary by product, destination market, Incoterm and the legal structure of the transaction. Public information is a screening input, not a substitute for current legal, customs, tax, compliance or laboratory advice for the exact product and market.
