Florida LLC in United States — Import / Export & Trading Formation Guide
Choose a jurisdiction with strong logistics infrastructure, favorable customs agreements, and access to major trade blocs (like the EU or US). Consider VAT deferral schemes and free trade zones.
Last verified: June 10, 2026
Corporate Tax
21.0%
State Tax
0.0%
Formation Cost
$125
Annual Fee
$139
Forming a Florida LLC in United States as a Import / Export & Trading means a total tax burden of 21.0% and an official formation cost of $125. There is no minimum capital requirement. Standard formation takes 1-5 business days. No local director is required; the process can be managed remotely. This guide covers the steps, tax breakdown, banking options, and compliance requirements — all from verified data.
First-year total cost
≈ $274
Ongoing (per year)
≈ $288
Why Florida LLC for Import / Export & Trading?
A business model focused on sourcing goods from one country and selling them in another. Success relies heavily on supply chain efficiency, customs compliance, and navigating international trade tariffs.
Ideal for
- Physical product brands
- Wholesalers and distributors
- Dropshippers scaling to bulk inventory
- Cross-border B2B traders
Challenges to watch
- Complex customs and import duties
- High shipping and logistics costs
- Cash flow management due to inventory delays
- Regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions
Key decision criteria
- Proximity to major ports or logistics hubs
- Availability of Free Trade Zones (FTZs)
- VAT and sales tax registration requirements (e.g., EORI in the EU)
- Double taxation treaties between sourcing and selling countries
Florida LLC formation requirements
Minimum capital
None
Standard timeline
1-5 business days
Local director
Not required
Registered office
Virtual office allowed
Notarization
Not required
No local manager or director required. Can be managed by foreign members.
Estimated breakdown (based on avg. $1,000,000 revenue)
Simulate with your own revenue →
VAT / Sales Tax
Standard rate 6%. Registration threshold: 100,000 USD. Florida does not generally tax SaaS or digital downloads, but physical software and certain digital services may be taxable. Remote sellers must collect sales tax if they exceed $100,000 in annual sales to Florida customers.
Banking & payments for Import / Export & Trading
For non-resident founders, opening a traditional US bank account (like Chase or Bank of America) usually requires an in-person visit. However, fintech platforms like Mercury and Relay allow fully remote account opening once the LLC has an EIN. The process is generally straightforward and takes a few days to a couple of weeks depending on compliance checks.
Supported payment gateways
Remote-friendly accounts
Mercury
Highly popular among tech startups and non-resident founders. Allows fully remote account opening with an EIN.
Relay
Excellent for multiple accounts, team cards, and accounting integrations. Non-resident friendly.
Wise Business
Ideal for multi-currency holding and low-cost international wire transfers.
Florida LLC formation steps
Choose a unique business name that includes 'LLC' or 'Limited Liability Company' and verify availability on Sunbiz.
Appoint a Registered Agent with a physical street address in Florida to receive legal documents.
File the Articles of Organization online with the Florida Division of Corporations and pay the $125 state fee.
Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for free from the IRS for tax and banking purposes.
Create a comprehensive Operating Agreement to outline the ownership structure and operating rules.
Open a US business bank account using your EIN and formation documents.
Obtain any required local business licenses or permits depending on your city or county in Florida.
Import / Export & Trading FAQ
Do I need a company in the country I am importing to?
Not always. You can often act as a Non-Resident Importer (NRI), but having a local entity can simplify customs, VAT registration, and local banking.
What is an EORI number and do I need one?
An Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is required for businesses importing or exporting goods into or out of the European Union.
Should I incorporate in a Free Trade Zone (FTZ)?
FTZs offer tax exemptions and simplified customs procedures, making them ideal if you plan to re-export goods without them entering the local domestic market.
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Related guides
Complete Florida LLC guide
Taxes, requirements, banking, compliance
Florida LLC cost calculator
One-time and annual cost breakdown
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Tax 0.0% · formation $100
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