FAQs
Does Helmsman Imports help with distribution? Which states can you help with?
Helmsman Imports primarily focuses on facilitating the importing process for alcohol brands for both domestic and International suppliers, ensuring they successfully and legally enter the US market or other states. This involves handling customs, fulfilling federal and state compliances, and managing logistics. While we are well-versed in the complexities of the US market and can provide valuable advice and guidance, it's important to note that we are not a distributor. We do however have wholesaler licenses that permits our clients to sell direct to retailers, bars and restaurants in the states of New York, Illinois, Connecticut, Florida, California and New York
What is the difference between an importer and a distributor in the United States?
In the U.S. alcohol industry, an importer is a business entity that brings foreign alcohol brands into the country, manages customs and import regulations, and assists U.S. brands to expand interstate by navigating complex state laws.
On the other hand, a distributor, also known as a wholesaler, purchases alcoholic beverages from importers or producers and sells them to retail outlets, handling the collection and payment of state excise taxes. They also manage sales, marketing, and logistics for the products they distribute. Both roles are integral to the industry's three-tier system (producer/importer -> distributor -> retailer), ensuring legal and controlled alcohol distribution.
For more on the Three-Tier alcohol system, check out this video we created for you.
Can Helmsman Imports provide salesforce support?
Helmsman Imports primarily focuses on facilitating the importing process for alcohol brands for both domestic and International suppliers, ensuring they successfully and legally enter the US market or other states. This involves handling customs, fulfilling federal and state compliances, and managing logistics. While we are well-versed in the complexities of the US market and can provide valuable advice and guidance, it's important to note that we are not a distributor. We do however have wholesaler licenses that permits our clients to sell direct to retailers, bars and restaurants in the states of New York, Illinois, Connecticut, Florida, California and New York
Does Helmsman Imports pay for Federal Excise Taxes?
The payment of Federal Excise Taxes is the responsibility of the Client/Brand owner. It is imperative to be acquainted with prevailing tax rates and incorporate them into pricing strategy. The Craft Beverage Modernization Act (CBMA), which underwent tax reform, was made permanent as of December 2020. See the applicable tax rates in the ACE CBMA Tax Rates Table table here.
Does Helmsman Imports help with pricing strategy?
We can certainly provide advice and insights based on our industry knowledge and experience. We can assist in understanding the competitive landscape, cost structures, and market expectations, which can help inform your pricing strategy. But the final decisions on pricing, much like sales and marketing strategies, typically reside with the brand owner. We highly recommend consulting with a sales consultant or a pricing strategist to develop a comprehensive pricing strategy tailored to your specific brand and the competitive landscape of the US spirits market.