This article was checked in September 2026. Rules and figures change, so confirm them before you act. We are not lawyers or tax advisers.
The short answer
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where do I find US buyers? | Import records, trade shows, associations, LinkedIn, Google and your own website. |
| What works best? | A clear website, samples ready in the US, and fast, honest follow up. |
| How long does it take? | Often a few months from first contact to first order. |
| Can someone do this for me? | Yes. A US sales agent can find buyers, send samples and follow up, while you approve every order. |
Key takeaways
- Target buyers who already import products like yours.
- Send short, specific emails with prices and a clear next step.
- Have samples ready to ship inside the US.
- Check every new buyer before you ship on credit.
Know who you are looking for
- Importers and distributors, who buy in bulk and sell to stores
- Wholesalers, who sell to smaller shops
- Retail chains, which often buy through buying agents
- Private label brands, who sell your product under their own name
- Online sellers on Amazon and Shopify who need a reliable factory
Where to find them
US import records
US sea shipment records are public, and several paid data services let you search them. You can see which US companies import products like yours, from which countries and how often. This is one of the best sources of real buyers.
Search for job titles such as buyer, sourcing manager or purchasing manager at companies in your product line. Connect with a short note before you send anything long.
Trade shows
Most US product lines have trade shows where buyers meet suppliers. Even walking a show and collecting cards can give you a strong list. Check show dates and exhibitor rules on each show's website.
Industry associations
US trade associations often publish member directories. Members are active companies in your exact field.
Search for your product plus words like wholesale, distributor or supplier. The companies that show up already sell what you make.
Your first email
US buyers get many supplier emails. Keep yours short:
- One line on who you are. Your company, city and what you make.
- One line on why them. Show you know what they sell.
- One clear offer. Samples, a catalog link or a price list.
- One easy next step. A short call or a sample shipment.
Follow up
Most replies come after the second or third follow up, not the first email. Space them a week or two apart and add something new each time, such as a new product or photo.
What wins the order
- Fast replies during US business hours
- Samples that arrive quickly
- Clear prices, minimum order and lead time
- Proof of quality: certificates, test reports and references
This is exactly what our US sales representation service does for you, from Chicago.
Buyer types and what they want
| Buyer | What they want | Typical first step |
|---|---|---|
| Importer or distributor | Reliable supply and good FOB prices | Samples, then a trial order |
| Private label brand | Custom products made to their specs | Samples and pre-production approval |
| Wholesaler | Ready stock and fast delivery | Small orders, often delivered in the US |
| Retail chain | Compliance, labels and insurance | Usually through a distributor first |
Rules for sales emails
US law (the CAN-SPAM Act) lets you send business emails to buyers, but each email must use an honest subject line, show a real postal address and let the reader opt out. Opt-outs must be honored within 10 business days. Short, personal emails to the right person work far better than mass mailings.
- 1List50 to 100 real US buyers in your line.
- 2EmailA short first email with one clear offer.
- 3Follow upTwo or three polite follow ups.
- 4SampleShip samples fast, from the US if you can.
- 5QuoteClear prices and terms, then follow up again.
Want us to handle this for you?
We are a US office in Chicago for Pakistani exporters. We set up your US company, build your website and find US buyers. You sell to them directly.
Keep reading
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Getting startedGet paid safely by US buyers
Company, tax and bankingRegister a US company from Pakistan
Common questions
Where can I find a list of US importers?
US sea shipment records are public and can be searched through paid data services. They show which US companies import products like yours.
How many emails should I send before giving up on a buyer?
Usually three or four, spaced a week or two apart, each with something new. Many replies come after the second or third message.
Do trade shows work for Pakistani exporters?
They can, especially when you follow up quickly with samples. Check each show's dates and exhibitor rules on its website.
Should I use LinkedIn to find US buyers?
Yes, as one channel. Find purchasing and sourcing managers at importers in your product line, and connect with a short, specific message.
Do trade shows still work?
Yes, for many products. Buyers meet many suppliers at once. Go prepared with samples, prices and a US contact.