But not everyone can justify the price tag. Especially when you're just starting to explore new markets or test sourcing leads.

 

So here’s the question I hear all the time:

"Are there any legit, free alternatives for trade data that actually give useful insights?"

👉 Short answer? Yes. Explore TradeMagellan.

 

Why Free Trade Data Tools Are So Limited

Most trade data is collected through customs records. But not every country makes that data public.

Some charge for access. Others just don’t release it.

Plus, platforms like Panjiva and ImportGenius add serious value by sales support, which is why they cost more.

So, free tools are usually:

• Partial (only a few countries)

• Outdated (not real-time)

• Limited in searches or exports

 

✅ Top Free Alternatives You Can Actually Use

If you're looking to test waters before committing to a paid tool, here are a few places to start:

 

1. TradeMagellan

• 15 sources including the US

• Both import and export view

• Filter by HS code, company, country, date and more

Free data is great, but clarity is better. Data on TradeMagellan has been cleaned and modeled to provide you with actionable insights.

📩 hello@trademagellan.com

🔗 https://www.trademagellan.com

 

2. UN Comtrade

• Huge historical dataset

• Good for macro-level trends

• Great for researchers or strategic planning

🔗 https://comtrade.un.org

 

3. US Import Data via USA Trade Online

• If you're targeting the US, this is gold

• HS-level data by port, time, etc.

🔗 https://usatrade.census.gov

 

4. ImportYeti

• US trade dataset

• Great data visualization tool

🔗 https://importyeti.com

 

5. Indian Customs Data (via Government Portals)

• HS-code based trade summary

• Established by Indian official

🔗 http://www.indiantradeportal.in/

 

6. TradeMap (by ITC)

• Good for macro-level trends

• HS code-based exports/imports by country

🔗 https://www.trademap.org