What is Import Export Data? Examples, Providers & Datasets to Buy
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On This Page:
- Overview
- Datasets
- Providers
- Use Cases
- Attributes
- Guide
- FAQ
On This Page:
- Overview
- Datasets
- Providers
- Use Cases
- Attributes
- Guide
- FAQ
What is Import Export Data?
Import export data refers to records of goods transported across international borders. This data includes shipment details like product description, quantity, weight, value, and the exporting or importing country. It helps businesses analyze trade patterns, assess market demand, and optimize supply chains. Many datasets are available through APIs, allowing easy integration into business platforms.
What Are Examples of Import Export Data?
Import export data provides critical insights into global trade. Key examples include:
- Shipment Data: Details about cargo, including product type, quantity, weight, and packaging.
- Trade Value: Monetary value of goods, including customs value, FOB (Free on Board), and CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight).
- Origin and Destination: Country of origin for exports and destination country for imports.
- HS Codes: Harmonized System codes for product classification.
- Port Information: Departure and arrival ports for shipments.
- Carrier Information: Shipping companies, vessel names, and tracking details.
- Trade Agreements: Tariff preferences based on bilateral or multilateral trade agreements.
Best Import Export Databases & Datasets
Datarade offers access to a range of import export datasets, covering global trade flows, commodity-specific records, and historical trends. Some datasets focus on specific industries, while others provide trade coverage across sectors.
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Import Export Data | Import, Export & Trade Professionals in Asia | Verified Global Profiles from 700M+ Dataset | Best Price Guarantee
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Import/Export Trade Data in Africa
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DR Congo Export Import Direct Customs Detailed Database
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Global Import-Export Transactional Datafeed
Gmgft: China Customs (Import & Export) Statistical Yearbook Data
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Import/Export Trade Data in Asia
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Nigeria Export Import Direct Customs Detailed Database(2019-2023) with Monthly Updates
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Global Enriched Import-Export Transactional Datafeed
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Grepsr | Transport/Logistics Vessel and Container Tracking Datasets | Global Coverage with Custom and On-demand Datasets
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Foreign Trade Market Stats & Analytics by PREDIK Data-Driven
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Top Import Export Data Providers & Companies
Popular Use Cases for Import Export Data
Organizations, businesses and countries use import export data to analyze and evaluate international relations. Trade analysis, such as the examination of tariff activities and how they increase/decrease, can give a good insight into the current state of relations between different countries.
Import export data is also important for understanding market conditions globally. By analyzing import and export data businesses can gain key insights into domestic and global markets which are then used to make the most well-informed business decisions.
Import export datasets can also illustrate the workings of product supply chains as well as demand for goods and services. Manufacturers use this information to determine what they need to produce more of and how to adjust prices to generate the highest levels of revenue. Import export datasets can be used to highlight goods consumption which is not only used by manufacturers, but also researchers and organizations for the preparation of trade reports.
Other common use cases include:
- Commodity Tracking: Track the movement of raw materials and finished goods globally.
- Procurement Intelligence: Evaluate supplier performance and trade volumes.
- Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM): Identify trade disruptions and adapt sourcing strategies.
- Market Research: Analyze demand trends and competition across regions.
Main Attributes of Import Export Data
An import export dataset will mainly provide details about the goods that are being imported or exported. This can be their value, what the goods themselves are and the tariffs and duties that were paid.
There may also be information about the details of the trade agreement that is leading to the import and export trade. This can include which parties are involved in the trade or what is being given in return for the goods.
Finally, import export data will usually include attributes based on the tariff of the goods. In the USA, goods being imported and exported using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and almost all other countries have tariff classification system based on this international Harmonized System (HS). This and other details are recorded to populate an import export dataset.
Attribute | Type | Description | Action |
---|---|---|---|
String | The LinkedIn profile of a company. | View 4 datasets | |
String | The name of a company or business, might be the legal or brand name. | View 4 datasets | |
String | The official website of a company. | View 4 datasets | |
String | The first name of a contact. | View 4 datasets | |
String | The last name (surname) of a contact. | View 4 datasets | |
String | The country code in Alpha-2 format (ISO 3166) | View 4 datasets |
How Is Import Export Data Collected?
Whenever a trade agreement is formalized and a good is either imported or exported a lot of data needs to be recorded. This can come from the agreements themselves, which are often published and can then be mined for information.
Alternatively, whenever a good passes through a supply chain point, such as a port, the goods, their value and any duties or tariffs paid have to be recorded. This information can also be used to populate an import export dataset and can provide key regulation information.
Import export datasets can also use shipping schedules as a source of information as this can be used to track the number of imported goods entering or exported goods leaving a country at any one time.
Quality Assessment of Import Export Data
A high quality import export dataset will provide regularly-updated trade information on the goods that are being imported and exported across the world or in a certain region or country.
It will also give useful insights into current tariffs that are being imposed, as well as often providing historical tariff rates so you can track how they have evolved over time and ascertain whether this is affected or affects international relations.
Always make sure to read the data provider’s reviews before buying any import export datasets and ask for a data sample before you purchase to make sure the data provider matches your needs.
What Does an HS Code Mean?
HS (Harmonized System) codes are standardized numerical identifiers for traded goods. Each code corresponds to a specific product category, facilitating international trade by simplifying customs procedures and tariff calculations.
Are HS Codes Different for Each Country?
While HS codes are standardized globally under the World Customs Organization (WCO), countries can apply additional digits for more detailed classification. The first six digits are consistent worldwide, while the remaining digits vary by country.
Import Export Data in the US
According to the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the U.S. goods and services deficit was $98.4 billion in December 2024, reflecting increased imports and decreased exports.
December exports totaled $266.5 billion, while imports reached $364.9 billion. The annual deficit for 2024 increased by 17% compared to 2023, with exports rising by 3.9% and imports by 6.6%.
Breaking down the trade further:
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Top U.S. Exports: The leading exports in December 2024 included refined petroleum ($9.93 billion), aircraft parts ($9.77 billion), crude petroleum ($9.6 billion), and commodities not elsewhere specified ($7.82 billion). Major export destinations were Canada ($28.4 billion), Mexico ($26.9 billion), and China ($12.8 billion).
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Top U.S. Imports: The primary imports included cars ($18.8 billion), crude petroleum ($12.7 billion), computers ($11.9 billion), and telephones ($11 billion). Leading import sources were Mexico ($42.2 billion), China ($37.8 billion), and Canada ($33.4 billion).
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Regional Insights: Texas was the top exporting state, accounting for $38.8 billion in exports, followed by California ($15.8 billion) and Louisiana ($8.08 billion). On the import side, California led with $41.9 billion, followed by Texas ($32.4 billion) and Illinois ($20 billion).
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Economic Impact: The trade deficit with specific countries also shifted significantly. The U.S. had a $25.3 billion deficit with China, $20.4 billion with the European Union, and $15.2 billion with Mexico. Meanwhile, trade surpluses were recorded with the Netherlands ($5 billion), South and Central America ($3.5 billion), and the United Kingdom ($2.3 billion).
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, February 5, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Can I Buy Import Export Data?
You can explore our data marketplace to find a variety of Import Export Data tailored to different use cases. Our verified providers offer a range of solutions, and you can contact them directly to discuss your specific needs.
How is the Quality of Import Export Data Maintained?
The quality of Import Export Data is ensured through rigorous validation processes, such as cross-referencing with reliable sources, monitoring accuracy rates, and filtering out inconsistencies. High-quality datasets often report match rates, regular updates, and adherence to industry standards.
How Frequently is Import Export Data Updated?
The update frequency for Import Export Data varies by provider and dataset. Some datasets are refreshed daily or weekly, while others update less frequently. When evaluating options, ensure you select a dataset with a frequency that suits your specific use case.
Is Import Export Data Secure?
The security of Import Export Data is prioritized through compliance with industry standards, including encryption, anonymization, and secure delivery methods like SFTP and APIs. At Datarade, we enforce strict policies, requiring all our providers to adhere to regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, and other relevant data protection standards.
How is Import Export Data Delivered?
Import Export Data can be delivered in formats such as CSV, JSON, XML, or via APIs, enabling seamless integration into your systems. Delivery frequencies range from real-time updates to scheduled intervals (daily, weekly, monthly, or on-demand). Choose datasets that align with your preferred delivery method and system compatibility for Import Export Data.
How Much Does Import Export Data Cost?
The cost of Import Export Data depends on factors like the datasets size, scope, update frequency, and customization level. Pricing models may include one-off purchases, monthly or yearly subscriptions, or usage-based fees. Many providers offer free samples, allowing you to evaluate the suitability of Import Export Data for your needs.
What Are Similar Data Types to Import Export Data?
Import Export Data is similar to other data types, such as Marine Traffic Data, Transport and Logistics Data, Rail Traffic Data, Global Trade Data, and Ride-Sharing Data. These related categories are often used together for applications like Procurement Intelligence and Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM).