You could have a patent attorney check to see if there is one covering a particular skid plate or if there is some indication a company deems it proprietary.

I am not a patent attorney but have had experience dealing with competitor patents. While there is always risk if a product is patented, generally, there are avenues to avoid violation. In this case a change in design, method of attachment, function(s) or material could be enough. As I understand the part is out of production-that helps.

The only safe course is to have an experienced attorney document the company protecting the part extends permission. Unfortunately, all methods to stay out of trouble take time and money. I have only worked in U.S. corporations. In my experience patent violations always start with a cease and desist notification. If that didn't solve the problem our attorney would call or meet to see what could be done to resolve the issue without initiating what most often would be a nobody wins lawsuit.

I wouldn't think a skid plate is protected. They have been around for many many years so it is usually not cost effective to attempt to get any new offering protected but you won't know without checking---Sadly, this is the short story and far from all inclusive.

To lower the cost to U.S. customers, I would check if there are benefits to set up a quasi distributor in a cost effective location in the U.S. or wherever their is enough demand. Declared value would be lower as should overall shipping cost.

FYI- the start up costs are covered by the sales forecast and the offering price. The forecast is never accurate. You will sell notably more or less. Sales are usually less or come slower and target price is always a challenge to meet and still realize the justifying profit.

__________________
X5 4.6 2002 Black Sap, Black interior. 2013 X5M Melbourne Red, Bamboo interior
Dallas