Help & FAQ

Essential information for Bikudo members engaged in global trade

What is Bikudo's primary function in global trade?

Bikudo serves as an international trade platform connecting buyers with verified manufacturers, suppliers, and exporters worldwide. We facilitate B2B commerce across 40+ industries through comprehensive company profiles and product listings.

Are there any costs associated with using Bikudo's services?

Bikudo offers completely free access to all core features including company registration, profile creation, and product listings. We maintain our service through advertising partnerships while keeping all essential trade functions accessible at no cost.

What is the process for adding products to my company catalog?

1. Access your dashboard after signing in
2. Navigate to "Product Management" section
3. Select "Add New Product"
4. Complete all specifications with technical details
5. Submit for quality review (typically within 24 hours)

For optimal results, include multiple high-resolution images and detailed product specifications.

How should potential policy violations be reported?

• Use our dedicated contact form
• Include screenshots and transaction details
• Specify violation type (fraud, IP infringement, etc.)

Our compliance team investigates all reports within 48 hours while maintaining strict confidentiality.

What steps should I take if I've lost account access?

Immediately initiate password reset:

1. Visit our secure reset page
2. Enter your registered email
3. Follow instructions in the verification email

For accounts with 2FA enabled, additional verification steps may be required.

Where can I get assistance with unanswered questions?

Contact options include:

• Email: support@bikudo.com
• Priority support for verified partners
• Dedicated trade specialists for complex inquiries

Please include your member ID and relevant details for faster resolution.

Secure Global Trade: Essential Tips for Buyers and Suppliers

Engaging in global B2B commerce presents tremendous opportunities but also requires careful attention to security and due diligence. Whether you're a manufacturer seeking international buyers or a procurement professional sourcing products globally, these comprehensive guidelines will help you navigate cross-border transactions with confidence.

For Buyers: Protecting Your Business When Sourcing Globally

1. Supplier Verification: Before initiating any transaction, conduct thorough due diligence:

• Verify business registration through official government databases
• Request and validate tax identification numbers
• Check for industry certifications relevant to the product category
• Search for any litigation history or disputes

2. Communication Best Practices:

• Always use official company email domains (avoid generic @gmail or @yahoo addresses)
• Establish multiple points of contact within the supplier organization
• Document all communications and agreements in writing

3. Payment Security:

• Start with smaller trial orders before committing to large purchases
• Use secure payment methods with buyer protection (letters of credit, escrow services)
• Never transfer funds to personal accounts - insist on verified corporate accounts
• Consider trade credit insurance for significant orders

4. Quality Assurance:

• Request product samples before full production
• Specify detailed quality requirements in contracts
• Arrange for third-party inspections before shipment
• Understand the supplier's return/refund policies

For Suppliers: Building Trust with International Buyers

1. Professional Representation:

• Maintain accurate, complete company profiles with verifiable information
• Showcase certifications, quality control processes, and compliance documentation
• Provide clear, high-quality product images with detailed specifications

2. Transparent Business Practices:

• Clearly state payment terms, lead times, and minimum order quantities
• Disclose all costs upfront (shipping, duties, insurance)
• Provide references from existing clients when possible

3. Contract Security:

• Use detailed contracts specifying product specifications, delivery terms, and dispute resolution
• Consider requiring deposits for custom orders
• Verify buyer credentials before accepting large orders

4. Documentation Excellence:

• Provide complete shipping documentation (commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates)
• Ensure all documents match exactly the information provided to customs
• Maintain organized records of all transactions

Risk Mitigation Strategies for Both Parties

1. Cultural Considerations:

• Understand business etiquette in your partner's country
• Be aware of time zone differences and local holidays
• Consider language barriers - use simple, clear English in communications

2. Legal Protection:

• Consult with international trade attorneys for contract review
• Understand applicable international trade laws (CISG, Incoterms)
• Specify governing law and jurisdiction in contracts

3. Logistics and Shipping:

• Agree on Incoterms that clearly define responsibilities
• Verify shipping insurance coverage
• Track shipments closely and communicate proactively about delays

4. Building Long-Term Relationships:

• Start with smaller transactions to establish trust
• Maintain consistent communication throughout the process
• Address issues promptly and professionally

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious of these warning signs in international trade:

For Buyers:

• Suppliers unwilling to provide verifiable business information
• Prices significantly below market rates without reasonable explanation
• Requests for unusual payment methods or terms
• Poor communication or inconsistent responses

For Suppliers:

• Buyers requesting samples for high-value products without paying
• Requests to falsify documentation or circumvent regulations
• Overpayment scams or unusual payment arrangements
• Buyers unwilling to sign formal contracts

Global Trade Glossary: Essential Terms

Incoterms®

Internationally recognized commercial terms defining responsibilities between buyers and sellers for shipment, costs, and risks (e.g., FOB, CIF, EXW).

Letter of Credit (LC)

A bank guarantee ensuring payment to sellers upon fulfilling contractual obligations, reducing payment risk in international transactions.

Bill of Lading (B/L)

Legal document issued by carriers serving as receipt, contract, and title for shipped goods.

Proforma Invoice

Preliminary bill detailing goods, values, and terms for customs and buyer approval before shipment.

HS Code

Harmonized System code classifying products for customs procedures and tariff calculations.

MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)

The smallest unit quantity a supplier will sell, often affecting pricing and production efficiency.

Lead Time

Duration between order placement and product delivery, including production and shipping.

Certificate of Origin

Document certifying manufacturing country, required for customs clearance and tariffs.

Force Majeure

Contract clause freeing parties from liability due to extraordinary events (wars, natural disasters).

FOB (Free On Board)

Incoterm where seller covers costs until goods are loaded on vessel; risk transfers at ship's rail.

CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)

Incoterm where seller pays costs, insurance, and freight to named port of destination.

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)

Incoterm where seller bears all costs and risks until goods are delivered to buyer's premises.

Packing List

Detailed document specifying contents, weights, and packaging of each shipment container.

Commercial Invoice

Legal document declaring transaction value for customs, payment, and control purposes.

Bank Draft

Payment instrument where buyer's bank guarantees funds will be transferred to seller.

Inspection Certificate

Document verifying goods meet agreed specifications before shipment.

For specific guidance on these terms in your transactions, consult with certified trade professionals or freight forwarders.